Leadership and Vision

Christopher Williams is the co-founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Proven Management Limited, the investment management company behind Proven Investments Limited (PIL). With over 20 years of experience in merchant and investment banking, asset management, and stock brokerage in the Jamaican and Cayman Islands capital markets, Williams has established himself as a pivotal figure in the Caribbean financial landscape. His leadership style is characterized by strategic foresight, resilience in the face of challenges, and a knack for identifying lucrative opportunities in turbulent times.

Career Path and Milestones

Williams’ career is marked by significant milestones and strategic acquisitions. Under his leadership, Proven executed its first major acquisition in 2010 during the Government of Jamaica’s debt exchange, acquiring Guardian Asset Management. This acquisition was notable for its timing amidst widespread market panic, showcasing Williams’ ability to see opportunity in crisis​.

One of the most high-profile deals orchestrated by Williams was the acquisition of a 49.27% stake in Access Financial Services from Mayberry Investments in 2014. This move not only resolved a public dispute among Access’s major shareholders but also fortified Proven’s position in the micro-lending sector​​. Other significant acquisitions include the purchase of First Global Financial Services, which expanded Proven’s wealth management capabilities, and the acquisition of an 83% stake in the Bank of St. Lucia International, marking Proven’s first venture into the banking sector outside Jamaica​.

Management Style and Philosophy

Williams’ management style is deeply rooted in the belief that crises present unique opportunities. He advocates for maintaining calm and nimbleness during market upheavals, a philosophy that has guided Proven through various acquisitions and expansions. His strategic approach involves meticulous market analysis and a keen eye for undervalued assets that can be transformed into profitable ventures​​.

Williams also emphasizes the importance of a strong, cohesive team. He describes Proven as the Caribbean’s version of an NBA super team, highlighting the collective expertise and experience of his executive team and board members. This collaborative and high-performance culture is a cornerstone of Proven’s operational strategy and success​.

Future Outlook and Retirement Plans

Looking ahead, Williams continues to steer Proven towards new horizons. The company’s foray into real estate through its subsidiary, Real Properties Limited, exemplifies its strategy of diversification and growth. While specific details about his retirement plans remain undisclosed, Williams’ legacy at Proven is expected to endure, built on a foundation of strategic innovation and robust leadership​.

As Williams prepares for the future, his contributions to the financial sector and his role in shaping Proven into a regional powerhouse remain a testament to his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Edward “Teddy” Alexander

The Directors of tTech Limited announced that two (2) major shareholders, Edward “Teddy” Alexander and G. Christopher Reckord, have sold 52,012,834 tTech shares, representing 49.1% of tTech Limited’s issued shares. The acquiring entity, Simply Secure Limited, is owned by Kevin Gordon and Rob Mayo-Smith. Messrs. Gordon and Mayo-Smith are also the owners of Simply Secure LLC, a Managed Security Services Provider based in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.

tTech Limited is a leading IT services provider offering a wide range of services to help businesses manage their IT infrastructure efficiently and securely. Our mission is to deliver exceptional IT services and solutions that empower businesses to thrive in an ever-evolving digital landscape.

Simply Secure LLC is a Managed Security Services Provider based in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. The company specializes in providing comprehensive security solutions to protect businesses from cyber threats and ensure the safety and integrity of their IT environments.

In light of the fact that the acquisition is beyond the 20% threshold of the issued and outstanding ordinary shares of the company, tTech has duly notified the Jamaica Stock Exchange and the Financial Services Commission pursuant to the applicable JSE Junior Market Rules (Appendix 2) and the applicable Regulations promulgated under the Securities Act that relate to Takeovers and Mergers.

Simply Secure has indicated that upon the acquisition of 50% or more of tTech’s shares, it will extend an offer to all remaining tTech shareholders to purchase their shares. This intended offer to the remaining shareholders will be contingent on the completion of additional due diligence, finalization of the terms of the offer, review by the tTech board and approval by the regulators. Simply Secure and tTech have committed to adhering to the Securities TOM Regulations and the JSE Rules.

The Directors of tTech anticipate that the synergies between tTech and Simply Secure will enhance the services provided by tTech, particularly in the area of Cybersecurity.

There will be some changes at the director and management levels. However, Edward Alexander, who continues as the Board Chair, stated, “I am confident that Simply Secure’s involvement will bring new resources and expertise to tTech Limited. Their focus on Managed Security Services aligns perfectly with our strategic goals.”

 “Under this new arrangement, Simply Secure and tTech are committed to leveraging greater resources to meet the growing demand for Managed Security Services. The primary focus will remain the delivery of exceptional value to our customers and optimal growth opportunities for our employees.” Kevin Gordon, CEO of Simply Secure LLC

The headline in last weeks business gleaner read “The Bridge Radio Station Up For Sale”.

The opening paragraph of the article told the story, “After débuting on air with much fanfare nearly three years ago, radio station The Bridge 99 FM is facing an uncertain future and is now up for sale. Two investors in The Bridge, one of the newest FM radio stations in a crowded and dwindling market, have confirmed that they are seeking buyers for the station.”

Target Market

The Bridge, the brainchild of New York-based Jamaican Robert ‘Bobby’ Clarke who heads the Irie Jam Media Group, which operated Irie Jam Radio in the Tri-State area for more than two decades, came on air in August 2021 aiming, as its name suggested, to connect Jamaicans abroad, mainly in the United States, and those at home, through a unified platform.

On-air Talent

The upstart station was able to attract a slate of well-known names to its airwaves, including disk jocks Richard ‘Ritchie B’ Burgess, Kurt Riley and Nikki Z, veteran recording artiste Tony Rebel, retired politicians Ronald Thwaites and Pearnel Charles Sr, and controversial talk show host Dr Kingsley ‘Ragashanti’ Stewart.

But The Bridge failed to attract a significant audience, with more persons turning away from traditional media sources like radio to social media for information and entertainment.

The Question that we have to ask is very clear. Is Broadcast Radio Dead!

In the article Zachary Harding, founding partner of Delta Capital Partners Jamaica, and an investor in The Bridge was asked about the future of FM radio: “There can be money in FM radio, as it is still a popular means of entertainment and getting information. Radio is not dead. However, advertisers now have more options in terms of marketing spend and there has definitely been a tremendous shift towards social media and away from traditional media. This trend will always impact smaller players in the market negatively. However, with the right strategy, you can integrate social media into your strategy to command more loyal listener base and differentiate the station, while providing greater points of distribution. This is exactly what we are doing at CaribStar Media”.

Broadcast radio is not dead, but it does face significant challenges in the current media landscape.

Here’s a comprehensive look at trends and potential directions for making broadcast radio viable in Jamaica and the Caribbean:

Convergence with Digital Platforms: One major trend is the integration of broadcasting with digital and social media platforms. Radio stations are increasingly using live streaming services like YouTube, Facebook Live, and Twitch to reach audiences seeking real-time and interactive content​​.

Local Focus and Community Engagement: Despite the shift towards digital, local advertising remains a strong point for radio. Industries such as retail, real estate, automotive, financial services, and healthcare continue to invest in local radio ads due to its strong community presence and trust factor​. Radio can leverage this by focusing on hyper-local content and community engagement, which digital platforms may not provide as effectively.

Political Advertising: Political campaigns are a significant revenue source, especially in local markets. With political spending on the rise, particularly in swing states, radio stations can capitalize on this by offering targeted advertising solutions​.

Shorter, More Engaging Ads: Long ad breaks can drive listeners away, especially when compared to the ad-skipping options available on streaming services. To combat this, radio can focus on shorter, more engaging ads, including authentic endorsements from popular hosts, which tend to resonate more with listeners​​.

Technological Advancements: The deployment of 5G networks will revolutionize content delivery, allowing for seamless streaming and improved connectivity. This can enable more interactive and immersive experiences for radio listeners, potentially attracting a larger audience​.

Diverse Revenue Streams: Beyond traditional ads, radio stations can explore additional revenue streams such as sponsored content, events, and partnerships with local businesses. This diversification can help mitigate the risks associated with declining ad revenues​.

Content Personalization and On-Demand Options: Emulating successful aspects of streaming services, radio stations can offer personalized content and on-demand listening options through podcasts and digital archives. This approach caters to the growing demand for content that fits individual schedules and preferences​​.

For Jamaican and Caribbean radio stations, adopting these strategies could help create a more sustainable business model in a rapidly evolving media environment. Emphasizing local content, leveraging digital convergence, and exploring new revenue streams are key steps towards maintaining relevance and profitability.

Source: https://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/business/20240710/bridge-radio-station-sale

InterMetro Transit Jamaica, a distinguished member of the RedPlate Group, is proud to announce the upcoming launch of the InterMetroONE SuperApp—a ground breaking initiative set to redefine the transportation and service delivery experience in Jamaica.

At the core of our mission is a steadfast commitment to providing every Jamaican with access to a modern, tech-driven public transportation service that is safe, comfortable, cost-effective, efficient, and reliable. The InterMetro SuperApp embodies this commitment by bringing together all our current apps and features into one comprehensive gateway—InterMetro.

Unveiling the InterMetro SuperApp: A Gateway to Convenience

The InterMetro SuperApp serves as a one-stop destination for a myriad of transportation and service-related needs, consolidating various offerings under a single platform. From InterMetro Bus Services to RedPlate Taxi rides, airport transfers, and non food and grocery business and personal courier services—the SuperApp seamlessly integrates these services for enhanced accessibility and convenience.

Moreover, InterMetro SuperApp introduces RedPlate +, an exclusive membership program offering members the privileged InterMetro and RedPlate experience across all our rides and delivery services. Members can enjoy a host of benefits, including exclusive offers, discounts, and personalized service enhancements.

Expanding Horizons: Future Enhancements

As we continue to evolve, the InterMetro SuperApp will expand its offerings to encompass a broader spectrum of services aimed at further enriching the lives of Jamaicans. Future additions to the SuperApp will include bill payments, remittances, money transfer services, phone credit topping, and same-day loan services—empowering users with unparalleled convenience and accessibility.

Empowering Jamaicans with Technology

The launch of the InterMetro SuperApp underscores our unwavering commitment to leveraging technology to empower Jamaicans and enhance their everyday lives. By consolidating diverse services into a single, user-friendly platform, we aim to revolutionize the transportation and service delivery landscape, making essential services more accessible, efficient, and convenient for all.

Join us as we embark on this transformative journey, driven by our conviction that every Jamaican deserves access to a modern, tech-driven public transportation service that prioritizes safety, comfort, affordability, efficiency, and reliability. With the InterMetro SuperApp, the future of transportation and service delivery in Jamaica is within reach.

www.inter-metro.com