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Corporate Movements

Corporate Movements – April 2024

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Wigton Windfarm Limited (“WIG” or the “Company”) has announced the following organisational changes and appointments effective May 6, 2024:

The position of Chief Executive Officer will be established, and Mr. Gary Barrow will be appointed thereto as the executive head of the Company.
The position of Deputy Chief Executive Officer will be established, and Miss Michelle Chin Lenn will be appointed thereto. The position of Head of Energy which was held by Miss Michelle Chin Lenn will be dispensed with.
The Board of Directors of WIG is of the view that the aforementioned changes, and specifically the appointment of Mr. Gary Barrow following a successful recruitment process, will further allow the Company to fully realize its vision of being a profitable, regional conglomerate with successful clean energy and other investments. Mr. Barrow also takes the lead at an exciting time for WIG, leading the charge for new investments to deliver a more diversified energy portfolio and growth agenda. Mr. Barrow has demonstrated exceptional leadership for over thirty (30) years in highly relevant c-suite roles in telecommunications and electricity in the region. In addition to his industry know-how and business experience, his multi-disciplinary background in Engineering, Finance, Technology, Innovation, Business Transformation, Process Re-Engineering, Governance and People Management will allow him to hit the ground running at WIG. In his last appointment at the Jamaica Public Service Company Limited, as the Chief Operating Officer, he led enterprise-wide strategic planning and he executed some of the game-changing projects in their digital transformation and other business innovations. His past successes included smart meters and grid modernization projects. Mr. Barrow holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, a Master of Business Administration and has completed global leadership development programmes with INSEAD in France, United Kingdom, China, Spain and USA.

Management changes at VM Investments Limited & VM Wealth Management Limited: In our continued drive to deliver customer-focused experiences to our clients, VM Investments Limited (VMIL) introduced the role of Vice President – Operations. This role will oversee Corporate Planning, Corporate Governance, the Research Unit, Internal Controls, Business Transformation and Core Operations. Allison Mais joined the team in this capacity in February and will work to plan, direct, coordinate, and oversee operational activities of VM Wealth Management (VMWM)/VMIL and ensure the development and implementation of efficient operations and cost-effective systems. Allison previously worked at GraceKennedy as Head, Strategic Planning where she was responsible for the Group’s Strategic Plan and the monitoring of the Group’s areas of focus and KPIs, leading the Corporate Planning Unit and executing retreats and investor briefings. Prior to this, Allison was the Head, Digital Strategy, GraceKennedy Financial Group and Assistant Vice President, Strategy and Project Management Office, First Global Bank. She holds a Master of Science in Manufacturing, Management & Information Systems from Cranfield University, UK and a Bachelor of Science in Computing and Information Technology from the University of Technology. VMIL also wishes to advise that Mr Jason Bailey, who held the post of Manager, Risk and Compliance, of VMIL and VM Wealth Management Limited resigned from the company effective January 22, 2024. We thank Jason for his service and contribution to the VMIL Group and wish him great success in his future endeavours.

At the Radio Jamaica Limited Board of Directors meeting of April 25,2024, the Board passed a resolution to appoint Dr. David McBean as a director of the company, effective 25 April, 2024.

Consequent upon the reorganization of the Mayberry Group of Companies, this letter serves to advise of the Directors and Company Secretary of Mayberry Group Ltd. Note that Mayberry Group Ltd, a company incorporated under the laws of Saint Lucia, was listed on the Jamaica Stock Exchange on December 13, 2023.

The current Listing of Directors, appointed on September 6, 2023, are as follows:

1. Christopher Berry

2. Konrad Berry

3. Gary Peart

4. Richard Surage

5. Gladstone Lewars

6. Alok Jain

7. Erwin Angus

8. Walter Scott

The Corporate Secretary of Mayberry Group Ltd is FinSec Limited, appointed on November 15, 2022.

Justin Nam has resigned as Eppley’s General Manager to pursue other interests after nearly a decade at the company. His resignation is effective May 31, 2024, and he will coordinate with Raymond and Jeffrey to facilitate a smooth transition.

Raymond Donaldson to join Eppley as CEO

Raymond Donaldson will serve as the Chief Executive Officer of Eppley Limited (Eppley) effective May 3, 2024.

“Raymond has extensive leadership experience in financial markets across the Caribbean and a track record of scaling regional businesses. He has consistently demonstrated the ability to lead high performing teams and deliver results. We are delighted that Raymond will be joining Eppley.” said P.B. Scott, Chairman of Eppley.

Jeffrey Brown will also join Eppley on May 3, 2024, as Chief Investment Officer and will work closely with Denise Gallimore, VP of Real Estate and Samantha Summerbell, AVP Credit to grow and expand Eppley’s investment efforts.

Justin Nam has resigned as Eppley’s General Manager to pursue other interests after nearly a decade at the company. His resignation is effective May 31, 2024, and he will coordinate with Raymond and Jeffrey to facilitate a smooth transition.

“Justin has been an integral part of developing Eppley into the leading regional investment firm it is today contributing to the growth of our credit, mezzanine, infrastructure and real estate portfolios across the Caribbean. As an Eppley alumnus, we wish him well in his future endeavours.” said Nicholas Scott, Vice Chairman of Eppley. “I’ve worked closely for many years with both Raymond and Jeffrey. I know they share Eppley’s investment philosophy and I’m confident that they will continue our proud track record and build our business.”

“Eppley is a pioneer in private market investing in the Caribbean and one of the most respected investment firms in our region known for the caliber of its team, its financial performance and its integrity. I plan to lead Eppley guided by its founding principles for benefit of our team, our clients and our shareholders.” said Raymond Donaldson, Eppley’s incoming Chief Executive Officer.

Raymond Donaldson has a 20-year career in banking and finance in Jamaica, the Bahamas and the wider Caribbean. Most recently, Mr. Donaldson was Vice President Corporate and Commercial Banking at National Commercial Bank. Prior to that Mr. Donaldson served as Director of Corporate and Investment Banking in the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos at CIBC FirstCaribbean.

Jeffrey Brown has held executive roles in banking in Jamaica and Barbados, mostly recently as Head of Loan Structuring and Syndications at National Commercial Bank and previously at CIBC FirstCaribbean, Scotiabank and PricewaterhouseCoopers.

Tropical Battery Company Limited (TROPICAL) has renamed certain posts within the organisation. The Company hereby notifies that the members of the management team, including recent changes and senior management of subsidiaries, are as follows:

Alexander Melville Chief Executive Officer

Alexander Melville, who held the post of Managing Director, has been appointed as CEO effective March 1, 2024. He remains a Director on the. Board of Directors. He has been with Tropical Battery since April 1, 1996 including as Managing Director and has more than 26 years of industry work experience in the Automotive/Battery Business. The experience ranges from warehouse hand, receivables clerk, finance director, to his current role. The highlights during this time would be the transition to real-time sales accounting for all of our retail stores, restructuring shareholder equity with significant investment from our parent company, and helping to put the right people in the right seats, then inspiring and motivating them to achieve growth rates significantly above our industry growth rates. Alexander, also sits on the Board of Eppley Limited, a finance and investment company listed on the JSE, and is on the Audit and Remuneration Committees of that company. Additionally, on Chukka Group Boards; Diverze Assets Inc., Diverze Properties, and as the Treasury Director of Chukka Caribbean Adventures Ltd (a regional Nature Adventure Tour Company).

Daniel Melville Chief Operating Officer

Daniel Melville, who held the post of Deputy Managing Director, has been appointed as Chief Operating Officer effective March 1, 2024. On May 19, 2004, Daniel took-up the role as the VP Sales & Marketing at Tropical Battery, where his skills allowed him to lead the sales Team and execute successful customer service strategies. Since taking over this role the sales have grown by more than 15% annually on average. He teams up with all department heads to brainstorm, motivate and inspire our fellow employees, while overseeing business operations. In June 2021 he was promoted to Deputy Managing Director. Daniel is also a board member, and his mandate is to ensure that Tropical Battery is constantly moving towards fulfilment of its short-term and long-term goals and does not diverge from its strategic plan. Before Tropical Battery, he worked for over 14 years at the Chukka Group. Both on the operating side and the marketing team. Prior to joining same, he worked with Carnival Cruise Lines which helped him to gain a unique understanding of visitors’ vacation preferences and needs.

Reshando Mais Chief Financial Controller

Reshando Mais, who held the post of Financial Controller, has been appointed as Chief Financial Officer, effective March 1, 2024. Reshando joined Tropical Battery Company Limited on June 29, 2017, in the capacity of Financial Controller. He is responsible for the accounting and financial operations of the Company which includes, generating and reporting periodic financial statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards. He is a graduate of Northern Caribbean University and University of the Commonwealth Caribbean, where he obtained a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration with emphasis in Accounting and a Commonwealth Executive Master of Business Administration respectively. He has over 10 years of experience in accounting, external audit real estate industry and merchandising.

David Walton Chief Marketing Officer

David Walton, who held the post of Director of Sales and Marketing, has been appointed as Chief Marketing Officer effective March 1, 2024. David joined our Management Team on August 9, 2021 in the capacity of Director of Sales & Marketing. David is an innovative commercial leader with a background in both Sales & Marketing. With over 20 years of experience as a team lead for commercially successful brands, in the alcoholic beverage and FMCG industries, as well as entrepreneurial ventures in the Entertainment & Hospitality Industry, David has consistently built brands and delivered commercial results.

Stacy–Ann Spence Operations Manager

Stacy-Ann has been a part of the Tropical Battery family since November 9, 2015. Her portfolio includes direct oversight of our warehouse distribution, Battery Recycling & Export coordination, Occupational Health & Safety, Corporate Social Responsibility, Administration & Maintenance Management and overall general operations. Stacy-Ann graduated from the University of the West Indies with honors in 2012 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Labour & Employment Relations.

Sandra Russell Talent Manager

Sandra Russell, who held the post of Human Resource Manager, has been appointed as Talent Manager. Sandra joined our management team on January 14, 2019, in the capacity of Human Resource Manager. She studied at both local and overseas institutions where she now holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Resource Management from Madison University, USA., and a Diploma in Personnel Management & Industrial Relation from IMP. Mrs. Russell has twenty-four (24) years of management experience in the private sector namely Lasco Distributors Limited. She also served in the Banking and Public Sector as well.

Kamesha Robinson Corporate Governance Administrator

Kamesha Robinson has been appointed as Corporate Governance Administrator effective February 2, 2023. Kamesha joined the Tropical Battery family on March 1, 2010. She oversees the Administration Department and provides comprehensive support to the Board of Directors. With over 16 years’ experience in the telecommunications, retail and automotive industries, she comes with high-quality administrative skills and solid general business knowledge. Prior to Tropical Battery, she worked at Mossel Jamaica Ltd. (Digicel) in the areas of Customer Service and Site Acquisition. She graduated with honors from Kirkwood Community College, Cedar Rapids, Iowa in 2000 with an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Marketing and a Diploma in Business Administration.

Jeffrey Brown Information Technology Manager

Jeffrey Brown was appointed as Information Technology Manager in February 2023. He is a seasoned IT professional with over 18 years of experience in managing and maintaining complex network infrastructure, hardware, and software systems. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a strong ability to support and optimize operations for a variety of organizations in Jamaica. Jeffrey has been with Tropical Battery since February 27, 2023, he oversees the entire IT infrastructure, administers LAN and wireless (WAN) networks, and leads project management initiatives. Jeffrey’s career trajectory demonstrates a deep dedication to the IT field. He has consistently developed his skills and taken on increasingly complex roles, showcasing his ability to adapt and thrive in different environments. With his comprehensive knowledge, technical expertise, and leadership qualities, Jeffrey Brown is a valuable asset to any organization requiring a reliable and efficient IT manager.

Orane Gray Consultant IT

Effective February 2023, Orane Gray is no longer part of the senior management team but remains a consultant to the Company for information technology. Orane Gray perviously served as Information Technology Manager.

Oliver Hill CEO, Tropical Renewable Energy, Tropical Mobility and Tropical Finance

Oliver Hill is CEO of Tropical Renewable Energy, Tropical Mobility and Tropical Finance, majority-owned subsidiaries established in 2022. Oliver joined Tropical Battery on October 4, 2021. The subsidiaries aims to facilitate the transition to sustainable energy and transport. Oliver brings nearly two decades of experience in mergers and acquisitions intelligence and consulting across Latin America and the Caribbean. Prior to joining Tropical Battery, he worked as a consultant with the Inter-American Development Bank, where he supported the energy, water, and state modernization portfolios. Oliver holds a Bachelor of Science from Cornell University and a Master of Science from Columbia University.

Karina Chez CEO, Kaya Energy Group

Mrs. Karina Chez brings extensive business management and international trade experience to the KAYA team. Karina has been a part of the team since April 1, 2019. She is a strategic visionary driving the company’s growth into the future. Karina is a sought-after international speaker who has presented on topics including solar energy, entrepreneurship, women’s leadership, and climate change. She has a broad business network relevant to KAYA’s growth, including serving as the founding President of ASOFER, the Dominican Republic’s renewable energy association; a former president and board member Entrepreneurs’ Organization; a former Board Member of AIRD; and the Chapter Director of Startup Grind. Prior to KAYA, Karina founded The Chess Group, a digital marketing firm based in Dubai and New York, and served as a marketing executive in the Middle East and North America for JumpTV. Karina received an MBA from Pace University and a Master of International Affairs from Columbia University.

Andrew Cramer COO, Kaya Energy Group

Mr. Andrew Cramer is a cofounder and COO of KAYA and oversees project development and implementation processes. He is a frequent speaker at regional energy and technology conferences – including the MIT Technology Review’s EmTech and the Caribbean Renewable Energy Forum – on topics including the role disruptive technologies like machine learning will play in the renewable energy industry. Prior to KAYA, Andrew worked with the United Nations as a post-conflict electoral consultant in countries including Timor-Leste, Nepal, Sudan, Comoros, Afghanistan and Libya. In 2017, Andrew was selected to be among 90 thought leaders from around the world to participate in a program – funded by Google and based on the NASA Ames Research Facility in Silicon Valley – to examine how exponential technologies can be leveraged to address the negative impacts of climate change. Andrew has a degree in Environmental Sciences from Loyola University Chicago and a Master of International Affairs from Columbia University.

Chris Wunderlich Chief Executive Officer, Rose Electronics Distributing Co.

Chris Wunderlich was appointed the CEO of Rose Electronics Distributing effective January 30, 2024. Chris possesses a solid background in operations and engineering. His tenure in previous roles has been distinguished by significant enhancements in manufacturing processes and operational efficiency. Emphasizing talent development and continuous improvement in his leadership style, Chris aligns well with Tropical Battery’s vision for the company. His strategic approach in empowering teams to solve complex challenges and his commitment to refining operational systems position him as a key leader, ready to drive Rose Electronics towards a future of innovation and success.

Tim Gray Director of Business Intelligence & Accounting, Rose Electronics Distributing Co.

Tim Gray continues bringing a rich tapestry of experience that blends military discipline with business acumen. His nine-year tenure in the US Marine Corps, marked by leadership in high-pressure environments, laid a foundation for his subsequent success in the business world. With a Bachelor’s in Managerial Economics from UC Davis, Tim has rapidly ascended in the finance and accounting sectors, demonstrating a profound ability to navigate complex challenges and implement strategic solutions. As Director of Business Intelligence and Accounting, Tim’s forward-thinking approach and commitment to excellence will be instrumental in driving Rose’s growth and innovation in the evolving landscape of battery technology.

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Sagicor Group Jamaica Announces Organisational Changes to Support Business Growth

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Willard Brown appointed CEO of Sagicor Life Jamaica; Joanna Banks assumes broader strategic leadership role.

Christopher Zacca, the President and Chief Executive Officer of Sagicor Group Jamaica Limited (“Sagicor” or “the Group”) today announced key leadership changes to strengthen the Group’s position for continued growth and expansion.

Willard Brown Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Sagicor Life Jamaica Limited

Effective May 1, Willard Brown has been appointed Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Sagicor Life Jamaica Limited (“Sagicor Life Jamaica” “SLJ”). As CEO of Sagicor Life Jamaica, Brown will lead the overall strategy and operations of SLJ, which gives him oversight of all divisions of the Life Business. This expanded portfolio will enable a more integrated approach to supporting client needs, driving operational efficiencies, and positioning the Business for new opportunities in other geographies. He most recently served as Chief Technology and Insurance Operations Officer where he led several successful initiatives to streamline Sagicor Life Jamaica’s operations, modernise the Group’s technology platforms and strengthen its digital capabilities. Over the course of his 34-year tenure with the Company, Brown has demonstrated exceptional leadership, strategic foresight, and a deep understanding of the evolving needs of clients and markets-including operations in Panama and Costa Rica. His appointment reflects Sagicor’s focus on empowering proven leaders to accelerate its growth ambitions.

Willard brings an outstanding track record of strategic execution and innovation, and Joanna’s deep industry expertise remains invaluable as we expand our businesses.” Brown expressed enthusiasm about the new role, stating: “I am excited for this opportunity to build on our strengths and lead the charge as we grow our Life Insurance Business. With a dedicated and talented team behind us, we are well-positioned to deliver even greater value to our clients and communities. Sagicor Life Jamaica remains focused on delivering sustainable growth under the leadership of Mr. Zacca and the Executive Management Team.”

 

In addition, Joanna Banks will transition into an expanded strategic leadership role within the Group as Executive Vice President, Strategy and Business Development, and Chief Technology Officer.

Joanna Banks Executive Vice President, Strategy and Business Development, and Chief Technology Officer.

In alignment with the organisational changes, Joanna Banks will continue to play a critical role in delivering strategic initiatives that enhance the Group’s service excellence and market reach. She now has an expanded portfolio that includes the company’s Technology and Digital Innovation functions. This integration reflects Sagicor’s commitment to accelerating digital transformation and enhancing operational agility across its businesses. Commenting on the changes, Zacca, stated: “These leadership transitions position us strongly for the future.

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General Accident Strengthens Regional Leadership for Strategic Growth

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General Accident Insurance Company Jamaica Limited has announced the appointment of Gregory St. Hugh Foster as Chief Executive Officer and Country Manager of its Jamaica operations. He succeeds longtime executive Sharon Donaldson, who now assumes the full-time role of Group Chief Executive Officer. The transition, effective immediately, is the result of a carefully executed succession plan that signals the company’s continued commitment to strong leadership, growth and long-term stability across the region. Foster has been an integral member of the executive team since 2014, serving most recently as Chief Operating Officer.

With over a decade of experience in the general insurance sector, he has led with distinction across core areas including finance, underwriting, claims, and operations. He is also the strategic lead for AutoSmart Insurance, GenAc’s motor insurance sub-brand. “Sharon and Gregory have demonstrated the leadership required to execute our strategy and position General Accident for continued success,” said PB Scott, Chairman of General Accident. “This transition reflects our deep confidence in their ability to guide the company into its next phase of growth.” Foster brings a deep understanding of the Jamaican insurance market, honed during his time as Chief Financial Officer before assuming the COO role in 2019. A Chartered Accountant and member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Jamaica, he previously worked at PricewaterhouseCoopers as an Audit Manager, overseeing audits in insurance, petroleum, and manufacturing sectors. “It is a privilege to take on the role of CEO and Country Manager at such an important juncture in General Accident’s growth story,” Foster said. “Together with our exceptional team, I am focused on expanding our market presence, enhancing service delivery, and creating long-term value for our stakeholders.”

Sharon Donaldson, who has led General Accident for over two decades, has been central to the company’s regional expansion, delivering strong financial performance, strengthening underwriting capacity, and embedding sound corporate governance practices. As Group CEO, Donaldson will now oversee the strategic direction of General Accident’s operations in Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago, and Barbados. “I look forward to collaborating with Gregory and our regional teams as we continue to scale our operations and deliver innovative solutions to our customers across the Caribbean,” said Donaldson With this leadership evolution, General Accident reinforces its commitment to delivering sustainable growth and high-quality service while expanding its influence as a trusted insurer throughout the Caribbean.

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Corporate Movements

Corporate Movements – April 2025

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With reference to statements made in a letter to Jamaica Stock Exchange from World of Dolphins dated April 8, 2025 that have been posted on Instagram and on Dolphin Cove Limited’s website, this is to inform that, based on legal advice received to date, the ‘notice’ signed on behalf of World of Dolphins, and inter alia, issued on an unauthorized ‘letterhead’ of Dolphin Cove Limited, is ineffective for the purposes of Article 95(h) of the Company’s Articles of Incorporation and therefore the office of director occupied by Stafford Burrowes has not been vacated in accordance with that Article.
Should a proper instrument be issued within the terms of the Article, the office of the director in respect of which it is issued, would be vacated, without more.

Pulse advises that Ms. Romae Gordon has resigned as Co-Managing Director and Company Secretary of Pulse Investments Limited effective 31st March 2025. Miss Gordon will remain a director of the company. Ms. Safia Cooper will assume the post of Managing Director.

IronRock Insurance Company Limited (ROC) wishes to advise that effective 1 April 2025, Mr. Christian Watt has been appointed as a Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Company.

Innovative Energy Group is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Conrad Miller as President and Chief Executive Officer, effective April 14, 2025. Dr. Miller brings over two decades of experience in the energy sector, with a proven track record of leadership, innovation, and financial acumen. He holds a Doctorate in Business Administration focusing on Strategy and Innovation, a master’s degree in engineering management, and an undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering. He is a registered Professional Engineer with the Professional Engineering Registration Board.

Supreme Ventures Limited (SVL) is pleased to announce the appointment of Ms. Krista-Gaye Fisher as the CEO of Supreme Ventures Services Limited effective April 1, 2025.

The Board of First Citizens Group Financial Holdings Limited took the decision on Friday, March 28, 2025, to appoint Mr. Jason Julien as the new Group Chief Executive Officer to replace Ms. Karen Darbasie upon her retirement. Mr. Julien possesses an MBA (Distinction) from the Edinburgh Business School, Heriot – Watt University and a BSc Management Studies (Honours) from The University of the West Indies. He is a Chartered Financial Analyst with the CFA Institute. He also possesses a Certificate of Financial Advisors with the Institute of Business and Finance. He has twenty-five years of banking and finance experience in leading local and regional financial service entities, along with varied board.

Tropical Battery Company Limited (“TROPICAL”) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mrs. Jody Gager-Rose, Independent Director, to the Company’s Compensation Committee, effective 20th March 2025. Mrs. Gager-Rose brings a strong track record in accounting, financial reporting, and corporate governance, which will further strengthen the Compensation Committee’s oversight of executive remuneration and talent management. This appointment enables the Compensation Committee to meet the corporate governance requirements of the Jamaica Stock Exchange (JSE) Main Market. As TROPICAL advances its planned migration from the Junior Market to the Main Market, the Company is committed to aligning with the highest standards of board independence, transparency, and accountability. The Board of Directors welcomes Mrs. Gager-Rose to her new role and looks forward to her contributions in ensuring that the Company’s compensation framework supports its long-term strategic objectives and sustainable value creation for shareholders.

JMMB Group Limited wishes to advise that Mr. Johann Heaven will be appointed to the Board of Directors of JMMB Group Limited, effective April 4, 2025.  Mr. Heaven is a co-founder of PROVEN Group Limited and is currently the Group CEO of PROVEN Management Limited, the management company of the PROVEN Group. He brings to the JMMB Group over 25 years of experience in finance, planning, and investment functions.  He is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) charter holder, holds the Financial Risk Manager (FRM) certification, and has a Master’s Degree in Finance from the University of London. The JMMB family welcomes Mr. Heaven and looks forward to his contribution to the further success of the JMMB Group.

Jamaica Money Market Brokers Limited is pleased to announce that Mr. Christopher Walker has been appointed to the role of CEO for Jamaica Money Market Brokers Limited effective April 1, 2025. Mr. Walker previously held the role of CEO, JMMB Fund Managers Limited & Group Fund Operations Oversight Officer. Mr. Walker has over twenty-eight (28) years of experience in the financial sector. His qualifications include a BSc in Management and Economics from the University of the West Indies, a Canadian Investment Manager Designation from the Canadian Securities Institute and a Master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Liverpool.  The JMMB team looks forward to his continued valuable contribution. Ms Keisha Forbes continues as Country Chief Executive Officer – Jamaica.

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Corporate Movements: Margaret Campbell Appointed CEO of GKMS Group; Lee-Anne Bruce Named COO

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GraceKennedy Limited (GK) is pleased to announce leadership changes at GraceKennedy Money Services (GKMS) as part of its ongoing succession plan and strategic talent development and deployment.

Effective April 1, 2025, Margaret Campbell will assume the role of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the GKMS Group. Campbell, who has worked with GKMS for over 25 years, has served as its Chief Operating Officer (COO) since 2020. She joined GKMS in 1996 and has held several leadership roles during her tenure including, Financial Controller, Chief Financial Officer (CFO), and Country Manager for GKMS Jamaica. A Fellow Certified Chartered Accountant, Campbell also holds an MBA in Finance from the University of Manchester and serves on several GK subsidiary boards. She is also the current President of the Jamaica Money Remitters Association.

Frank James, Group CEO of GraceKennedy, expressed confidence in Campbell’s leadership, stating, “Margaret has demonstrated strong leadership and an unwavering commitment to providing exceptional value and convenience to our customers across Jamaica and the wider Caribbean, in keeping with our vision of being the number one Caribbean brand in the world. I have no doubt she will continue to drive GKMS forward.”

Grace Burnett, CEO of GKFG, added, “Margaret’s industry expertise and strategic approach make her the ideal person to lead GKMS into the future. Her experience and passion for operational excellence will be instrumental as GKFG continues to grow and evolve.” The announcement of Campbell’s appointment comes as Burnett, who has led GKMS since 2019, prepares to retire from GraceKennedy later this year.

Lee-Anne Bruce

Additionally, GraceKennedy has named Lee-Anne Bruce as the new COO of the GKMS Group, also effective April 1, 2025. Bruce holds a bachelor’s degree from the Frank G. Zarb School of Business at Hofstra University and is a Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist. With over a decade in senior leadership roles at GK, she has served as Group Chief Compliance Officer, Chief Risk Officer, and most recently, Chief Audit Executive. She began her career at GK in 2003, when she played a key role in GKMS’ expansion into the Eastern Caribbean.

Margaret Campbell, incoming GKMS CEO, welcomed Bruce’s appointment, stating, “Lee-Anne is no stranger to GKMS and her extensive experience and understanding of our business will undoubtedly be invaluable in her new role.”

In light of the leadership changes at GKMS, Judith Chung, Group Chief Compliance Officer & Senior Legal Counsel, will act as Chief Audit Executive of GraceKennedy Limited, while Jason Bailey, Head of Risk, will temporarily assume responsibility for the Compliance portfolio.

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GraceKennedy Limited (GK) Announces Additional Leadership Changes

These leadership changes align with the Company’s commitment to fostering a performance-driven culture while promoting innovation and consumer centricity.

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GraceKennedy Limited (GK) has announced key leadership changes set to take effect in 2025 as part of the Company’s succession plan.

Effective February 14, 2025, Andrea Coy will assume the role of CEO of GraceKennedy Foods, a move which will see the integration of the domestic and international segments of GK’s food division under a single leadership structure.

Since joining GraceKennedy in 2005 as Hi-Lo’s Financial Controller, Coy has held several key leadership roles within GK, including General Manager of Hi-Lo Food Stores and World Brands Services, CEO of Hardware & Lumber, Senior General Manager of the GK Foods Global Category Management Unit, and CEO of GK Foods Domestic. She has led GK’s international food operations since 2018 and is a member of the GK Executive Committee. Under her leadership, both GK’s domestic and international food businesses recorded significant growth in revenues and profitability. Coy holds degrees in Accounting from the University of the West Indies and is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Jamaica. She specializes in Turnaround Management and has completed advanced studies in the field at Harvard Business School. She serves on the Board of the Bank of Jamaica.

Later this year, following a distinguished 25-year career at GK, Grace Burnett will retire as CEO of the GraceKennedy Financial Group (GKFG), effective August 14, 2025. Upon her retirement, Steven Whittingham, the current Deputy CEO of GKFG, will step into the role of CEO, ensuring a seamless transition in leadership.

Grace Burnett

Burnett joined GK in 2000 and has held several key leadership roles within the Group. She previously served as Managing Director of GK General Insurance and Allied Insurance Brokers, where she led strategic operations for GK’s insurance business. From 2014 to 2019, she was the CEO of GK’s Insurance Segment, driving growth and innovation in the sector. An attorney-at-law, she has been the CEO of GKFG since 2016 and holds the position of the President & CEO of GraceKennedy Money Services. She is also a member of the GK Executive Committee. Well-known for her expertise in customer service, operations, and talent development, Burnett has earned accolades both within GK and externally. Her outstanding contributions to the insurance industry and exemplary leadership were formally recognised in 2024 when she received the prestigious Insurance Association of Jamaica Leadership Excellence Award.

Steven Whittingham

Whittingham joined GK in 2013 and has been Deputy CEO of GKFG since 2022, overseeing the Group’s Insurance Segment, merchant banking, and investment portfolios. He is a member of the GK Executive Committee and leads GK’s digital transformation. He has held various leadership roles within GK, including Chief Investment Officer of GraceKennedy Limited, Chief Operating Officer of GKFG, President of First Global Financial Services and Managing Director of GK Capital Management. During his tenure he has been instrumental in driving GK’s expansion through strategic mergers, acquisitions, and greenfield startups, consistently delivering impressive growth across portfolios. Whittingham holds dual degrees in Systems Engineering and Economics from the University of Pennsylvania and an MBA from Harvard Business School. In 2024 he was appointed Chairman of the Jamaica Stock Exchange, and he has served on several public and private sector boards.

These announcements come as GK prepares for another major leadership transition later this week. Last month, the Company confirmed that Group CEO, the Honourable Don Wehby, CD, OJ, will retire on February 14, 2025, stepping down from the Board of Directors after a distinguished tenure.

He will be succeeded by Frank James, current CEO of GK Foods Domestic and former Group CFO. GraceKennedy remains steadfast in its commitment to executing its strategy and ensuring excellence across all its operations.

These leadership changes align with the Company’s commitment to fostering a performance-driven culture while promoting innovation and consumer centricity. As the GK team strives to achieve its vision of becoming the number one Caribbean brand in the world, these appointments will provide continuity and strategically position GraceKennedy for sustained growth and innovation in the years ahead.

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