Early Career and Rise to Leadership
Gervase Warner, a distinguished figure in the Caribbean business landscape, has been an influential leader in the region. Before joining Massy Holdings, Warner had a thriving career in consultancy, working with McKinsey & Company. His decision to leave this high-profile consultancy role and return to Trinidad and Tobago to work with Massy was driven by a desire to reconnect with family and contribute to the Caribbean’s advancement.
Tenure at Massy Holdings
Warner’s tenure at Massy Holdings was marked by significant growth and strategic initiatives. Under his leadership, Massy expanded its footprint across the Caribbean and into Latin America, notably increasing its retail, motor, and gas products businesses. Warner emphasized the importance of a strong corporate culture, which he believed was crucial to the company’s success.
He also advocated for a regional stock exchange, which he saw as essential for improving price discovery and parity across Caribbean markets. This initiative aimed to integrate stock exchanges from Barbados, Jamaica, Trinidad, Guyana, and the OECS, drawing inspiration from Africa’s Pan-African Payment and Settlement System.
The Whistleblower Incident and Resignation
Warner’s leadership faced a significant challenge in late 2023 when Angelique Parisot-Potter, Massy’s former General Counsel and Executive Vice-President of Business Integrity, publicly disclosed concerns about a leadership training program during the company’s Annual General Meeting. Parisot-Potter alleged that the program, which involved bizarre rituals and frequent travel to Florida, was misusing company funds. This led to her being placed on administrative leave and eventually resigning.
The incident sparked internal and public scrutiny, culminating in Warner’s resignation in early 2024, nearly a year ahead of his planned retirement. The abrupt departure raised concerns about the potential destabilization of Massy Holdings and highlighted the challenges of maintaining corporate reputation amidst internal controversies.
Legacy and Future Directions
Despite the controversy, Warner’s legacy at Massy Holdings includes a strong emphasis on leadership development and strategic expansion. His vision for a regional stock exchange and his efforts to enhance Massy’s market presence have set a foundation for future growth.
Warner’s successor, David Affonso, a 34-year veteran of Massy, was appointed to lead the company forward. Affonso’s experience and leadership within the Integrated Retail Portfolio, which constitutes a significant portion of Massy’s revenue and profit, are expected to guide the company through this transition.
Insights into Management Style
Warner’s management style was characterized by a deep commitment to leadership development and a belief in the power of corporate culture. He often highlighted the importance of vision, grit, and surrounding oneself with talented individuals. His approach to business emphasized long-term growth through consistent effort and strategic planning.
Conclusion
Gervase Warner’s tenure at Massy Holdings was a period of strategic growth and expansion, albeit marked by significant challenges. His leadership style and vision for a regional economic integration have left an indelible mark on the Caribbean business landscape. As Massy Holdings moves forward under new leadership, the principles and strategies Warner championed will likely continue to influence the company’s direction and success.