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From Vision To Reality: My Journey To Becoming An Entrepreneur

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6 years ago

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A picture is worth a thousand words, that’s why I am a believer in a Vision Board as a valuable tool to creatively capture a visual image of your goals. Last year, I was motivated to be intentional by creating a vision board with all my plans for 2018, chief of which was my goal of becoming an entrepreneur.

May 2019 has been eight months since I took that bold leap of faith and left my corporate job to embark on a journey that would offer me new opportunities for personal and professional growth in keep with the goals on my vision board. During these eight months, I have been laying the foundation for my own company, paving the way for me to focus on what I have always loved… Public Relations, Communications, Event Management, Editing and Writing. In addition to launching my own business, I also celebrate the achievement of other goals on my vision board.

I started publishing my monthly blog – Make Life Count, to encourage persons to live every day consciously and intentionally in fulfilling their purpose and goals. I also launched Islanders Book Club, which is a network for Caribbean professionals living in Barbados. The Club is a forum for knowledge-sharing and a vehicle to achieve personal and professional development through reading.

Since I started on this journey, I have met some remarkable influencers, who were open and willing to share lessons from their entrepreneurial journey (the pitfalls, the failures and the successes). I have benefited and grown from their insights and experiences as well as the practical guidance that they have shared by way of one-on-one consultations, personal business coaching sessions or online webinars. I salute those who have helped to empower and teach me valuable lessons as a beginner on this entrepreneurial journey: @Daphne Valcin, Business Coach, @Jacqueline Walker-Johnson, Founder/Chief Editor, TheBeyondWoman Magazine, @Naomi Garrick, The PR Chick, @Rowena Morais, HR and Career Development Specialist and others.

There are also successful leaders and thinkers such as Paul Brunson, Richard Branson, John C. Maxwell, Jack Canfield, Michael Hyatt, Simon Sinek, Arianna Huffington, Gary Vaynerchuk and many others who I follow on social media and who are, in their own way, my entrepreneurial role models and mentors. Along this, sometimes very unpredictable journey, they have motivated me in many positive ways, and will, no doubt, continue to influence me as I grow and build my business. I am also able to stay the course with the invaluable support of my inner circle – my family and close friends – who are my biggest cheerleaders and who give wind to my sail.

My entrepreneurial journey has only just begun and there is much more ground for me to cover and many more lessons to learn. Every day has been a process of unlearning and learning. I have had to challenge myself each day to release fear, self-doubt and anxiety and to trust God and the process. I have had to challenge myself to remain positive and to persevere even in the face of difficulties and uncertainties.

I have also learnt that there are some ‘invisible’ barriers to succeeding in business – things that remain unspoken. As I continue to navigate my way through what I see as a ‘maze’ to successful entrepreneurship, I reflect on the distance I have covered and the invaluable lessons I have learnt along this journey.

1. ‘INVISIBLE’ BARRIERS TO SUCCESS IN BUSINESS

There is a perception that owning your own business is easier than working for someone else or that it is always rewarding. Nothing could be further from the truth. You have to work harder and longer hours to build and sustain your own business. Nothing prepares you for some of the “invisible” barriers to success in business.

Having your own business demands that you assume responsibility for every area and every function of your business and of course you bear all the associated costs and risks. This does not mean that you have to do everything, but it means that you have to assume ultimate responsibility for every area, even if that function is delegated to someone else. You must have a clear plan for your business, stay ‘on top of the game’ and be aware of what goes on not just internally within the business, but in the external environment as well. It requires you not just to be a “jack of all trades” but literally to be a “master”.

The underlying culture and unwritten rules of engagement within which your business operates is also a key determinant of success. Failure to appreciate and understand these rules can result in the failure of your business.

Do not rely on friendships or family connections for patronage of your business. Build your client or customer base on a foundation of solid performance, on real exchange of value rather than expectations and promises. Your competence, gifts and talents will make a way for you and attract the right clients and
business opportunities.

Your internal radar and mindset can also be barriers to success in business. It is said that the only limits to accomplishing anything are the limits on your own thinking. If you have limiting self-beliefs and a negative mindset then you undermine your ability to grow and succeed in business.

2. THE PROCESS OF UNLEARNING AND LEARNING

Armed with years of experience in Management and extensive experience in the field of Public Relations and Communications, I felt that the transition to becoming an entrepreneur would be relatively smooth. With unbridled optimism, I undertook research on the steps to becoming an entrepreneur and success strategies for start-ups. I sought guidance from businesspersons within my network, who all encouraged me to take the leap but cautioned me that going into business would be demanding, require hard work and commitment. They advised that it was rewarding as you get to chart your own course and do what you love to do while earning.

Despite all the guidance and planning, nothing really prepares you for the reality of unlearning what you thought you knew about start-ups and owning your own business.

Staying ahead of the curve is critical to achieving business success. You need to be open to a process of continuous learning (personal and professional development). This is how you will be stay on the cutting edge of business strategies, market trends and competitor activities and learn how to build brand awareness and brand value in the marketplace. There is also a wealth of knowledge to be gained from the experience of those with a proven record of success. Seek to find influencers and successful entrepreneurs as mentors or advisors from whom you can learn key business success strategies and techniques.

It is also important to learn the art of being intentional and consistent in order to succeed in business and being open to growing and evolving. Unlearn old habits like procrastination; – putting off until tomorrow what you can do today. It is really the thief of time. Avoiding the trap of disorganization and creating a consistent and efficient system for handling workflows. Overcoming the expectation gap; – Get real! Like the 80/20 Pareto rule, business success is 80% perspiration and 20% inspiration. It is not just about having a clear statement of your vision but actually doing what it takes to make it a reality.

3. BE PATIENT AND TRUST THE PROCESS

There is a process of building before we begin to achieve success. This is a necessary and foundational process on the journey to achieving our goals. A farmer before he can reap a harvest, must first prepare the land, plants seeds and fertilize and water the seeds during the process of growth.

During the process, there will be days that you feel like giving up because you don’t see evidence of progress. There will be days that your 100% efforts fail to generate the results you anticipated. There will be days that once lucrative opportunities yield zero results and your close network may not translate to clients or business prospects. Recognize that every experience, even failure, along the journey has a valuable lesson wrapped up it.

The key I have learnt is to trust the process, be patient during the process and remain open to learning and growing from every experience. When you stay the course, “…in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.” (Galatians 6 vs 9).

4. RELEASE FEAR, SELF-DOUBT AND ANXIETY AND TRUST GOD

For many persons who have started a business, the journey has its share of anxiety and fears. The struggles are real, but you have to challenge yourself each day to release fear, worry, anxiety and self-doubt. When the doubts and questions arise always remember why you started in the first place. Never stop believing in yourself and your vision. Believe in your abilities and capacity to be achieve your goals and visions. Above all, recognise that it is a journey of faith that requires you to trust God every step of the way. It is said that when you leap, you build wings on your way down as you won’t have it all figured out. Along the journey you will build tenacity, courage, resilience, and an inner strength to push you beyond the fears and doubts and to keep you forging ahead

5. PERSEVERE IN THE FACE OF DIFFICULTIES & UNCERTAINTIES

The road to building a business has its highs and its lows. You will experience challenges, frustrations and uncertainties. You will experience disappointment, defeat and sometimes rejection, but do not stay at the place of defeat and do not allow it to erode your passion and self-confidence. Persevere and keep your focus on our goals. Never discount the small wins or progress that are made and always pause to celebrate the positives along the journey. Build a supportive network and find a coach or mentor who will also help to keep you accountable, focused and motivated to pursue your goals.

Although it is easier said than done, remain inspired by the possibilities of what you can achieve and what tomorrow has to offer. Jack Ma, Chinese business magnate, founder and executive chairman of Alibaba Group, a family of successful Internet-based businesses, states, “Never give up. Today is hard, tomorrow will be worse, but the day after tomorrow will be sunshine.”

If after taking this journey, you honestly assess that being an entrepreneur is not what you want to do, know that “…regardless of failure or success, the experience is a form of success itself” to quote Jack Ma.

6. INVEST IN OTHERS

The experiences and lessons we learn along the journey are never solely for our own benefit. They become seeds for us to invest in others, to help influence or encourage someone who has started their journey towards achieving their entrepreneurial goals. As I wrote in my previous article, THE POWER OF YOUR “SOCIAL IMPRINT” – THE NIPSEY HUSSLE MODEL, if all we aspire to do as entrepreneurs is to make millions or build an enterprise for ourselves, then we will fail as our real value is what we do for others, how much we help to improve the lives of others or how much we invest in others along their journey to achieving their goals.

Write your own story but write it so that it becomes a road map to guide or assist new entrepreneurs.
The journey continues . . .

Misha Lobban Clarke a Public Relations/Communications Specialist, Editing Consultant and Writer with over 20 years’ experience. She is the head of ML Consulting Services, which provides public relations, corporate communication, media relations, event management and content writing services to assist entrepreneurs and corporate entities effectively communicate and promote their brand within their industry and the global marketplace.
As an editing consultant, Misha offers her expertise to assist aspiring authors maximize their talent and achieve their dream of writing, publishing and marketing their books to audiences globally. For more visit me on LinkedIn or follow my blog at https://mlcblog.org/

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Private Sector Urged to Champion Productivity

“Equity means ensuring access to financing, financial inclusion, fair treatment under regulation, and a level playing field for all, including women, youth, and marginalised communities,” she said.

Published

1 week ago

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June 21, 2025

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Minister without Portfolio in the Office of the Prime Minister with Responsibility for Efficiency, Innovation and Digital Transformation, Senator the Hon. Ambassador Audrey Marks, delivers the main address during the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce (JCC) 40th Annual Awards Banquet at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel in New Kingston on June 12.

 

The private sector is being urged to lead the charge in boosting productivity, driving growth, and accelerating national development.

This was the charge from Minister without Portfolio in the Office of the Prime Minister with Responsibility for Efficiency, Innovation and Digital Transformation, Senator the Hon. Ambassador Audrey Marks.

She was speaking during the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce (JCC) 40th Annual Awards Banquet on June 12, at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel in New Kingston.

The banquet was held under the theme ‘Shaping the Future: Driving Productivity, Championing Equity, Inspiring Entrepreneurship’.

Senator Marks pointed out that, “The theme is a call to action and a blueprint for building a Jamaica that thrives locally and competes globally.”

She noted that productivity challenges remain a “stubborn barrier” to unlocking the country’s full potential.

The Minister explained that, over the past decade, the Government has prioritised debt reduction, inflation control and broader socioeconomic stabilisation—creating an enabling environment for businesses to operate and thrive.

She said these efforts have yielded tangible results, including a debt-to-GDP ratio of 68.7 per cent, inflation falling within the Bank of Jamaica’s four to six per cent target range, and a 43.3 per cent decline in murders between January and May 2025, compared to the same period last year.

Senator Marks assured that Jamaica has reached a stable socioeconomic position, one poised to unlock exponential growth and national development.

“To achieve that growth, the Government will now have to pivot from stabilisation to GDP growth strategies. We must boost productivity, not by working harder but by working smarter. It’s about integrating technology, upskilling our workforce, streamlining operations, and investing in innovation. This is where the private sector can lead the charge,” the Minister outlined.

Senator Marks noted that the second pillar of the theme, ‘championing equity’, challenges stakeholders to confront the entrenched issue of unequal access to opportunities.

“Equity means ensuring access to financing, financial inclusion, fair treatment under regulation, and a level playing field for all, including women, youth, and marginalised communities,” she said.

The Minister pointed out that the JCC has been playing a key role in levelling the playing field for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).

“The President of the Chamber of Commerce has placed a spotlight squarely on ensuring that MSMEs are not left behind, because it’s these businesses that are the backbone of the economy. They are the creative and entrepreneurial engine in every community, in every parish, that keep our economy going, and they must be empowered, not as an afterthought but as a priority,” Senator Marks stated.

She noted that the JCC has spearheaded several initiatives over the years to bridge opportunity gaps for citizens and entrepreneurs – from redevelopment projects in downtown Kingston to partnerships aimed at tackling crime and advancing technology.

Meanwhile, Ambassador Marks underscored the importance of inspiring entrepreneurship, the third pillar of the JCC event’s theme.

She highlighted that Jamaicans are natural innovators, excelling as creators in music, cuisine, logistics, fintech, and other dynamic sectors.

“But there needs to be developed, locally, a culture that celebrates and encourages young innovators to start, and if you fail, to continue… and you can fail again, we will still be here to support you. That is my primary purpose in this position in the Government, to create that culture that celebrates innovation and supports entrepreneurship,” Senator Marks affirmed.

She urged the JCC to continue supporting Jamaica’s boldest thinkers, noting that the awardees are “examples of what is possible”.

“Please continue to nurture that spirit. Let us invest in it, educate it, mentor it, and showcase it, because the next tech genius could be a young Jamaican right now with nothing but a laptop and a dream,” Senator Marks said.

The JCC annual awards banquet celebrated outstanding businesses and individuals across categories, including the best in business performance, sustainability and marketing.

By: Donique Weston, JIS

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Dorothea Gordon-Smith Marks 50 Years of Quiet Power in Waste Management

Gordon-Smith has never been one to seek the spotlight. Her legacy is not one of noise or flash—but of consistency, care, and conviction. In an industry that rarely sees women at the top, she not only rose—she transformed what leadership looks like.

Published

1 week ago

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June 19, 2025

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In 1975, Dorothea Gordon-Smith left her job in banking while pregnant with her youngest child—not to retreat, but to step into the unknown. Together with her late husband Michael, she co-founded Garbage Disposal and Sanitation Systems Ltd. (GDSS), a modest one-truck operation that would, over the next five decades, grow into one of Jamaica’s most respected and enduring waste management companies.

Today, at 77, Gordon-Smith still leads the enterprise with poise and quiet determination. GDSS now boasts 35 trucks, offices in Kingston, Montego Bay, and Salem, more than 100 employees, and over 650 clients across 11 parishes. But it is not the size of the company that best defines her—it’s the spirit with which she built it.

A Start Rooted in Sacrifice and Resolve

When GDSS faltered in its early days, Gordon-Smith didn’t hesitate. Encouraged by her mother, and understanding the practicalities of their household income, she stepped in to steady the business while caring for a newborn. “There was no maternity leave in those days,” she recalled. “So I had to resign from my job in banking, anyway.”

She turned the office into a nursery and the business into her mission. From accounting and staffing to scouting sites and supervising mechanical repairs, Gordon-Smith immersed herself in every detail. She learned by doing, listening, and adjusting. And when major clients like West Indies Pulp and Paper and West Indies Glass shut down, she adapted—introducing recycling services and launching export initiatives to keep the company alive.

Community First, Always

From the beginning, Gordon-Smith made business decisions rooted in values. She deliberately placed GDSS offices near inner-city communities, because she saw the social and economic potential in places others overlooked.

“I believe most people are good,” she said. “I make it a point to speak to people in the communities we’re located with dignity and respect. One of the first things I do is hire from the community.”

That philosophy remains central to the GDSS culture. It was most recently on display during the company’s 50th anniversary health fair in Riverton City—a direct reflection of Gordon-Smith’s belief in service, equity, and the deep interconnectedness between business and community.

Guided by Instinct, Grounded in Care

Throughout her career, Gordon-Smith has relied not only on skill and strategy but also on something less quantifiable: intuition. She trusted her gut when making difficult decisions or hiring staff—and when she ignored it, she says, she paid the price.

Despite working in a traditionally male-dominated industry, she never allowed gender to define her path. “I didn’t spend much time thinking about whether I belonged,” she said. “I just focused on the work.”

Yet even as she moved through the complexities of running a national waste management company, Gordon-Smith remained acutely aware of the personal toll. The stress was unrelenting, the responsibilities heavy—and so, to sustain herself, she turned to self-discipline and self-care.

Many of Gordon-Smith’s days begin with cardio and weights. She eats with intention, maintains a schedule of regular massages, and makes time for weekly beautification rituals that have become part of her rhythm. Her home, though often filled with friends and family, is a space of calm—a place where laughter is easy and peace is protected.

Her vibrant, ever-changing hairstyles and bold wardrobe reflect the same intentionality. They’re an extension of a personality that is warm, expressive, and quietly powerful. Her looks, like her spirit, defy her age—but it is her discipline, not vanity, that fuels her vitality.

More Than a Business, A Living Legacy

As she begins stepping back from daily operations, Gordon-Smith is reflective—not just about the trucks and contracts, but about the lives her leadership has touched.

“There were hard times,” she said. “There were months I couldn’t even draw a salary. But when I thought about the jobs we created, and the families that depend on those jobs—that always kept me going.”

She refers to her employees as “over 100 children”—a sentiment that reflects both affection and responsibility. Loyalty, mutual respect, and long-standing service define the culture she built.

In 2024 alone, under her guidance, GDSS exported over 1,000 tonnes of glass and processed more than 500 tonnes of plastic and paper—a testament to her vision for a cleaner, more sustainable Jamaica.

But perhaps her greatest impact lies in what she represents: a woman who entered a tough, gritty industry without pretense and reshaped it through persistence, empathy, and grace.

A Quiet Redefinition of Leadership

Gordon-Smith has never been one to seek the spotlight. Her legacy is not one of noise or flash—but of consistency, care, and conviction. In an industry that rarely sees women at the top, she not only rose—she transformed what leadership looks like.

Her story is proof that strength doesn’t always roar. Sometimes it moves steadily, dressed in bright colors, guided by intuition, and held together by deep, unshakable purpose.

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Who is Safia Cooper?: Steering Pulse Investments into a New Era

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2 months ago

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April 20, 2025

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In the wake of her father Kingsley Cooper’s passing in June 2024, Safia Cooper has stepped into the role of Managing Director of Pulse Investments Limited, a company listed on the main market of the Jamaica Stock Exchange. With a rich background in marketing and a deep connection to the company’s legacy, Safia is poised to lead Pulse into its next chapter.

A Legacy Continued
Safia’s journey with Pulse began in earnest in 2012 when she joined as Director of Sales and Marketing. Her prior experience included managerial roles at Red Stripe Jamaica and Diageo Brazil, where she honed her skills in brand management and strategic marketing. She holds a BSc in International Relations from the University of the West Indies and an MBA from Nova Southeastern University.
In 2016, Safia was appointed CEO of Pulse, marking a significant step in the planned succession from her father . Her leadership has been characterized by a focus on expanding Pulse’s hospitality and leisure segments, including overseeing events like Caribbean Fashion week and the Caribbean Model Search Finals.

Navigating Challenges
The transition in leadership coincided with a challenging financial period for Pulse. The company’s revenue for the financial year ending June 2024 was $815.9 million, down 14% from the previous year. Net profits also declined to $543 million from $1.43 billion in 2023, impacted by impairments and restated financials.
Despite these hurdles, Safia has demonstrated resilience and a commitment to transparency. She acknowledged the financial challenges, noting the company’s efforts to address asset impairments and focus on recoverability of credits, particularly from media houses with reduced activity.

Vision for the Future
Under Safia’s leadership, Pulse continues to emphasize its core areas: fashion, media, and real estate. The company is advancing projects like Pulse Homes, a 30-unit eco-friendly residential development in Stony Hill, aimed at high-net-worth clients . Additionally, Pulse maintains a diverse portfolio, including model agency representation, show production, and property rentals.
Safia’s approach blends respect for the company’s storied history with a forward-looking strategy. Her tenure is marked by a dedication to innovation, strategic growth, and honouring the legacy established by her father. As Pulse navigates the evolving landscape of the creative industries, Safia’s leadership is central to its continued success.

In summary, Safia Cooper embodies the fusion of tradition and innovation, guiding Pulse Investments with a vision that honours its past while embracing the future.

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

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4 months ago

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March 5, 2025

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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.

Published

5 months ago

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February 11, 2025

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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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