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

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.

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.

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.

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.