Leadership Conversations
Stony Hill Phoenix: A Lesson In Football Development And Why This Experience Reminded Me So Much Of What Is Wrong In Jamaica
Published
7 years agoon
Approximately three months ago, my son started training with the Stony Hill Phoenix under 13 football clubs. They were making an entrance into the KSAFA under 13 football competition for the first time in a decade. I was attracted to the prospect of my son playing here for a few reasons (1) he would be able to make a mark with a new club; (2) I liked the skills shown by the young boys; (3) the coaching seemed appropriate; and (4) he would get the necessary playing time needed for development at this age.
He could have gone to Real Mona, Cavaliers, Meadhaven, or one of the more established teams, but I felt that for personal development this would have been better for him. As I mentioned he would get the playing time necessary to develop and have the chance to build with a set of skilful youngsters, which would have a greater mark than even winning with an already established team. I felt therefore that it was an ideal lesson in development for him. It is of course similar to building your economy with foreign investors, who are already established, or with your own start up entrepreneurial class. The latter always has more potential for growth and more loyalty to keep profits here.
A lot of his friends would ask him, “which team is that?”, “why don’t you play for Mona?” All the questions you would typically expect from someone about a start-up, for example, if one starts a company as opposed to working with a multinational in the corporate world. This is in contrast to a developed country like the US, where start-up companies are encouraged and usually in a few years grow into large publicly listed companies.
Believe in ourselves
What was impressive about this team though is that the youngsters were encouraged to do their best and we always told them that they had the ability to win the competition. They were always told also they had nothing to lose and a lot to prove, as they were seen as underdogs. The lesson in psychological; development was more important for us than skills, which while being important, if one did not believe that the ultimate goal was possible then the skill would be useless. This reminded me also of two things – (1) some persons have told me that the JLP’s vision is a pipe dream as Jamaica is a developing country and we are a victim of globalization; and (2) Bruce Golding’s speech that we should stop making excuses for our failures and accepting mediocrity, as we must believe that everything is possible. It is this approach that we took to the young boys and spent a lot of time, each training session, telling them how good they are.
In addition to the psychological and skills training we worked on the discipline and team work. No matter how skilful one was if the discipline and positive attitude was not present we would sometimes dismiss the person from the side. Discipline was of utmost importance, as any unpunished incident could contaminate the team and lead to total breakdown. So indiscipline was not tolerated. This is similar of course to the way in which crime and indiscipline has been a scourge on the Jamaican economy and has eventually led to the lack of confidence of persons to live and invest in Jamaica.
Success
What was impressive about the team is that (1) the youngsters were not from the more affluent families; and (2) the team was an average age of around 10 to 11 years, and had many who were still in prep school. So in terms of height they were much smaller than the great majority of other teams, which in most cases had mostly high school students and an average age of 12 to 13 years. We also did not have a major sponsor, as this team was after all not known and companies would of course ask what sort of mileage can I possibly get from this team. But for me that was a part of the challenge I liked for my son and adversity I thought would help them to succeed.
In the first round we played teams and beat them by four, six, and eight to nothing. The opposing coaches would take notice in disbelief that this new team of small youngsters was so good. In fact later on the KSAFA website would refer to the team as “Butler’s toddlers” after they got to the final against the defending champions, and favourites, Real Mona. In making their way to the final they even beat Real Mona in the quarter final and went on to win their quarter final zone. In fact my son told me after the quarter final match that when they were being introduced to the Real Mona team, a comment from one member of the towering opponent was something to the effect that the Stony Hill team players were so short that they would get beaten by ten goals. Well Stony Hill beat them two goals to nothing.
Stony Hill went on to beat Boys Town in the semi-final three goals to nothing, and lost the final in a nail biting match two goals to one. We also ended up with the leading goal scorer, who scored 24 goals for the season and the closest goal scorer was about 8 goals behind. Of the starting eleven, eight of are still eligible to play next year. Even so the future of this promising team is threatened as there is a tussle between certain persons in the community and the coach, who has built this team, over control of the franchise. So while the adults fight over the team the boys and football development may well be the real victims, as after entering and doing so well, after 10 years, it may well go into hibernation again. Similar to the way in which we tease the world with our quality agricultural products but then cannot fill the increased demand.
This experience reminded me so much of what is wrong in Jamaica, as I have mentioned. We believe too much in mediocrity; we do not encourage small businesses, having a preference for large foreign investors, when the greatest growth potential is with the small start-ups, as we see in the US (Google, Dell, Apple etc.); we have a breakdown of law and order, which prevents us reaching our greatest growth potential; and most importantly we have neglected building our human resources, and in many instances go for foreign names rather than the potential in our own people. Our music has shown that even though we are a small nation we can be giants on the world stage. For too long though our politicians have ignored the development of Jamaicans and Jamaica’s potential and this is truly the only way that we can prosper as a nation.
This team is truly a lesson in development for Jamaica, but because of adult egos we may not see them again. At least for me the goal of my son’s development has been met as he has made good improvement.
First published Wednesday, September 26, 2007 and republished with permission
Dennis Chung
Dennis Chung is a chartered accountant by profession, having completed the CPA exams (California, USA) in 1990, Master of Science in Accounting in 1989, and Bachelor of Science in 1987. He has worked at the financial controller level in the food and financial industries. He is a past president of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Jamaica, having been a council members since 2003. He is a regular economic and financial commentator in the media, and has written a weekly newspaper column in the financial paper since 2003. His opinion on economic and financial matters is sought after and has done numerous presentations on economic and financial matters in Jamaica and the Caribbean region. He was the project manager for the Air Jamaica divestment project, which resulted in the brand being leased to Caribbean Airlines in 2010. He is currently on the boards of GK Capital, where he is also Audit committee chairman; chairman of the National Solid Waster Management Authority; National Integrity Action; and Pension Fund Association of Jamaica. He is a past director of the Bank of Jamaica, Jamaica Ultimate Tyre Co, STATIN, Jamaica College, and the Betting, Gaming, and Lotteries commission. He is also author of Charting Jamaica’s Economic and Social Development AND Achieving Life’s equilibrium.
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Businessuite News24
The Digital Business Roadmap for Jamaican MSMEs: A Critical Path to Digital Transformation
Published
1 month agoon
September 21, 2024Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) play a crucial role in the economic landscape of many countries, including Jamaica. As the global economy continues to evolve, driven by rapid technological advancements, it is important for MSMEs to embrace digital transformation to remain competitive and sustainable. This blog explores the concept of digital business, the importance of digital transformation for MSMEs in Jamaica, and provides a roadmap for achieving this critical transition.
Defining MSMEs in the Jamaican Context
In Jamaica, MSMEs are defined based on their number of employees, annual turnover, and total assets. According to the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce (MIIC), micro enterprises have fewer than 5 employees and an annual turnover or total assets not exceeding JMD 10 million. Small enterprises employ between 5 and 20 people with an annual turnover or total assets between JMD 10 million and JMD 50 million. Medium enterprises employ between 21 and 50 people and have an annual turnover or total assets between JMD 50 million and JMD 150 million.
Understanding Digital Business
Digital business involves leveraging digital technologies to create new value in business models, customer experiences, and the internal capabilities that support core operations. The theoretical framework behind digital business is rooted in the integration of digital technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), big data analytics, and cloud computing to enhance business processes, improve efficiency, and drive innovation.
Digitization, Digitalization, and Digital Transformation
To understand the journey towards a digital business, it is important to distinguish between digitization, digitalization, and digital transformation:
Digitization
This is the process of converting analog information into digital formats. Digitization in many ways is the first phase of any effort to digitally transform your business. However, it comes with its own set of challenges, especially for MSMEs in emerging markets like Jamaica. The two primary costs MSMEs will have to account for are technology investment and user training. The cost of acquiring the necessary technology (e.g., scanners, computers, and software) to digitize records can be difficult for small businesses, who mostly operate on tight budgets and may find it challenging to allocate funds for such investments. User training often involves upskilling the employees of the to use new digital tools and processes effectively. This training requires both time and money, which can strain the resources of small businesses. These challenges can hinder progress and make the initial steps towards digital transformation more complex and resource-intensive.
Digitalization
If you are able to successfully digitize your business, this increases the likelihood of the next phase of this journey, digitalization. This refers to the use of digital technologies to change a business model and provide new revenue and value-producing opportunities. This involves using digital technologies to change business models and create new value-adding opportunities.
One of the primary challenges with digitalization lies in integration complexities. Many small businesses operate with legacy systems that are not easily compatible with modern digital tools and platforms. Integrating these new digital systems with existing ones can be technically complex and expensive, often requiring specialized IT expertise. Additionally, data stored in different formats or locations can create silos, which make it difficult to establish a unified and streamlined digital workflow. Addressing these silos often necessitates substantial restructuring of existing processes, adding further complexity to the digitalization journey.
Another significant challenge is change management. Employees and management might resist new digital processes, particularly if they are comfortable with the traditional ways of doing things. This resistance can slow down the adoption of digital tools and diminish the effectiveness of digitalization efforts. Moreover, moving from analog to digital processes often requires a cultural shift within the organization. Encouraging a digital-first mindset among employees can be difficult, especially in organizations where traditional methods are deeply ingrained.
The skills gap also poses a considerable challenge during digitalization. This activity typically demands a higher level of technical expertise than digitization. Employees may need to acquire new skills to effectively use digital tools, analyze data, and manage digital workflows. However, finding or developing these specialized skills can be a significant hurdle for many MSMEs, particularly in regions where access to advanced training and education is limited.
Digital Transformation
This is a comprehensive, strategic approach that leverages digital technologies to fundamentally change how an organization operates and delivers value to its customers. Achieving digital transformation in a business requires a holistic approach that involves integrating technology, people, processes, and culture. To successfully achieve digital transformation, a business must start by developing a clear vision and strategy. This involves defining what digital transformation means for the organization and setting measurable goals that align with overall business objectives, such as improving customer experience, boosting operational efficiency, or expanding into new markets. Creating a detailed roadmap with specific timelines, milestones, and resources is essential for guiding the transformation process.
Fostering a digital-first culture is equally important. Leadership must drive the initiative, committing to the transformation and promoting a digital mindset across the organization. Engaging employees early in the process through training and development opportunities is crucial to help them adapt to new tools and encourage a culture of continuous learning and innovation.
Investing in the right technology is another critical step. Businesses should choose scalable solutions, such as cloud-based platforms, data analytics tools, and automation technologies that can grow with the company and streamline operations. It’s essential to select technologies that integrate well with existing systems to ensure a smooth transition. Optimizing processes is also key to successful digital transformation. Before implementing new technologies, businesses should assess their current processes to identify inefficiencies and areas for improvement. Automating repetitive tasks can save time, reduce errors, and allow employees to focus on more strategic activities.
Collaboration is vital in this journey. Digital transformation often requires cross-departmental collaboration to identify challenges and develop solutions. Encouraging teams to work together ensures that digital initiatives are aligned with business needs. Additionally, forming external partnerships with technology providers, consultants, and other businesses can accelerate the transformation process by providing access to new technologies and expertise.
Ensuring data security and compliance is critical as the business becomes more digital. Investing in robust cybersecurity measures protects data and systems from threats, while compliance with relevant regulations, such as data protection and privacy standards, is necessary, especially when handling sensitive customer information. Monitoring and adapting the transformation process is essential for success. Businesses should continuously track their progress using data and analytics to measure performance against goals. Being flexible and ready to adjust strategies based on feedback, new developments, and changing market conditions is vital for ongoing improvement.
Leveraging government and private sector support can also provide significant advantages. Many governments offer grants, tax incentives, or other support for businesses undergoing digital transformation. Collaborating with industry associations and private sector partners can offer valuable resources, training, and networking opportunities, helping businesses stay informed about the latest trends and best practices. Engaging customers in the transformation process is another important step. As new digital tools are implemented, businesses must ensure that customers understand how to use them by providing clear instructions, tutorials, and support. Regularly collecting customer feedback allows businesses to continuously improve their digital services, ensuring they meet customer needs.
Finally, planning for continuous improvement is crucial. Digital transformation is not a one-time project but an ongoing process. Regularly reviewing and adjusting the digital strategy helps businesses stay competitive and responsive to changes in the market. Staying informed about the latest trends in technology and digital business enables companies to anticipate changes and opportunities, ensuring they remain agile and innovative in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
The Need for Digital Transformation in Jamaica
Jamaica’s Vision 2030 aims to make the country the place of choice to live, work, raise families, and do business. Achieving this vision requires a robust digital economy where MSMEs can thrive. Digital transformation is essential for MSMEs to improve efficiency, expand market reach, and enhance customer experiences. According to the Global Competitiveness Report 2019 by the World Economic Forum, Jamaica ranks 80th out of 141 countries in ICT adoption, highlighting the need for significant improvements in digital infrastructure and capabilities.
The Way Forward for MSMEs
Crafting a digital business roadmap requires careful planning and a thoughtful approach to several key factors. First, it’s essential to understand and address the evolving needs and preferences of customers in the digital age. Ensuring that digital initiatives can scale as the business grows is also critical, allowing for adaptability and responsiveness to market demands. Sustainability should be a central focus, with continuous updates and optimization of digital technologies to support long-term success. Collaboration is another crucial element, as leveraging partnerships and alliances can significantly enhance digital capabilities.
In conclusion, the digital business roadmap for MSMEs represents a vital strategy for achieving sustainable growth and competitiveness in today’s economy. By embracing digital transformation, MSMEs in Jamaica can unlock new opportunities, improve efficiency, and deliver enhanced customer experiences, ultimately contributing to the broader goals of Vision 2030.
© Germaine A. Bryan, 2024
Germaine Bryan is a business developer and startup coach supporting startups and MSMEs. Germaine is a skilled tactician in strategic business planning and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs build their capacity to operate at scale. Germaine is the Managing Principal of Gerbry Business Ltd. For enquires. please email: germaine@gerbry.business
As a Jamaican employed in an organisation, you are worried about the future of our nation. It appears as if our country is stumbling along, barely keeping its head above water. At the same time, you are aware of the power of a corporate vision.
Why hasn’t someone done the same for our 2.8 million people on the island, and the other 2+ million in the Diaspora?
The good news is that something is already in place in the form of Vision 2030. But why isn’t it changing your everyday experience?
The truth is that we need help. The two main things Jamaicans care most about – economy and crime – seem not to have progressed for decades. Instead, we want the hyper-growth of Trinidad-2004 and Guyana-2023. Or maybe even the steady high performance of the Bahamas.
Or perhaps more importantly, we envy the low crime rates of Barbados or Cayman (formerly a Jamaican protectorate.) At some point, we led all these countries in these areas.
Today, we are working hard not to slip into the same zone as Haiti.
If our leading companies can accomplish so much long-term success, why can’t our country, we wonder? While a direct comparison is unfair, maybe there are a few things we can learn from best practices accepted in your organisation.
A Joined Up, Far-Away Future
A “joined-up” future is one that lots of stakeholders contribute to creating. In a company, it means engaging the board, executives, staff, customers, suppliers, regulators, local communities and more.
Shouldn’t our country do the same?
Based on my experience and queries of colleagues outside government…we don’t know that we already have a joined-up faraway future…at least on paper. In fact, the process used to create Vision 2030 Jamaica from 2003-9 is a world-class model. As such, I have shared it at in-person and online strategy conferences as a case study.
Perhaps you recognise the summary statement: “the place of choice to live, work, raise families and do business.” In times gone, it was the tagline of speeches given by the Governor General, Prime Minister, Leader of the Opposition and many others.
But I looked over the recent Budget Debate notes. I struggled to find much of a mention. A Google search didn’t help. Here are a few ways business people at all levels could intervene now to prevent what former leaders of our country seem to be telling us…this is too important to allow it to be eaten up in regular chakka-chakka.
Why the urgency?
With six or so years remaining until we cross the finish line in 2030, we can’t afford to waste a single moment in mid-race. Remember when Miller-Uibo glanced up at the screen and lost her lead in the 400m final of the 2017 World Championships? We are likely to stumble into defeat also as a nation, unless we pay attention to the following.
A Divisive Election – You and I watch the bitter combat underway in the USA. It appears that cooperation towards common goals is impossible. Within a year, our political parties will try to win the next election by emphasising their differences. This is natural. But it’s the opposite of the intent of Vision 2030 Jamaica. Just imagine if the board of your company were divided into opposing camps. Let’s intervene so that their attention remains on what is most important.
Continuous Inspiration – Your ability to recite our National Pledge and Anthem were picked up as a child. We could elevate Vision 2030 Jamaica to that level of importance, starting with the Forward by Dr. Wesley Hughes, which states in part:
“Today, our children, from the tiny boy in Aboukir, St. Ann, to the teenage girl in Cave, Westmoreland, have access to technologies that were once considered science fiction. They seek opportunities to realise their full potential. This Plan (vision) is to ensure that, as a society, we do not fail them. “
Updated Business-like Measures – How can we know the progress we have made from 2009-2023? Are the measurable results listed in the document beyond reach? Do we deserve an A-? or a D+?
How about fresh, intuitive measures of success which tell us whether or not Jamaica is becoming “the place of choice”? Let’s measure the length of lines outside the US and Canadian Embassies for those seeking permanent residency and how they are growing or shrinking.
Wheeling and Coming Again – Companies have no problem resetting fresh objectives when the old ones no longer do the job. In business, a strategy that is not working is replaced as soon as it’s found to be lacking.
We can do the same for Vision 2030 Jamaica to keep it relevant. This is the beauty of long-term strategic planning.
An honest read of the original document reveals that certain assumptions about the government’s capacity to lead the effort were unquestioned. Today, after over a decade of effort, we have learned much. For example, it’s hard to argue that the planning done in 2009 was enough.
While we once led the world in long-term national planning, we aren’t doing the same in the more difficult world of national strategizing and execution. But there’s time.
As the clock ticks down to 2030, things are likely to become more awkward for all of us. As you may imagine,. the human tendency is to avoid the issue entirely, hoping it goes away.
That may yet happen. But if we don’t confront the gaps in our initial attempt to create a joined-up, faraway vision, we’ll block our citizens from ever believing in a national vision again.
In fact, it would be better if it were declared null and void, than ignored. At least that would have some integrity and enable us to move on to a better national vision, lessons earned.
Better National Strategic Planning
And that is perhaps the biggest lesson for all concerned. We Jamaicans say that we are great starters, but poor finishers. In other words, we know how to kick things off. But when the going gets tough, we aren’t strong at bringing them to fruition.
Said differently, we don’t know how to keep promises just because we made them.
The point here is that Vision 2030, with some five to six years remaining, puts us in an awkward spot. But that’s a lie. We have put ourselves in an awkward spot.
At some point we were strong in envisioning great things. Like a company who creates BHAGs, our executive team gave its sacred honor to accomplish a great thing, like the framers of the Declaration of Independence.
However, we haven’t put in place mechanisms sufficient to rescue our current situation. At the current rate, we won’t be closer to being a “place of choice” than we were in 2009.
In a company it’s easier to find individuals or a team of leaders who may hold themselves accountable for a game-changing result. Often, the metrics are clear.
Unfortunately, no such clarity exists around Vision 2030. And given our impending election fever, it may not come from politicians. Instead, it’s time for business to step up and bring sound strategic planning to the accomplishment of the most important outcomes of our national lifetimes.
Let’s inspire each other to intervene so we can have what we already
know we want. It won’t happen any other way.
Francis Wade is the founder of the Jump Leap Long-Term Strategy newsletter and podcast, and operates a management consulting firm.
Businessuite News24
Jamaica Is Pursuing The Strategy Of Mix Development Modalities
Published
4 months agoon
June 25, 2024“Tourism is a wealth creation and economic enrichment activity driven by the consumption and production patterns of people!”
“The strategy for destination exploitation of tourism is a composite of many modalities including business models and investment opportunities and not to be viewed through a myopic lenses.
Small highly service dependent economies such as ours must rely heavily on consumption to sustain economic growth, and expansion and Tourism has become the most effective way of achieving this as the propensity to CONSUME of the Tourist is 3-5 times that of the local! It means therefore that the expansion of the local market by increasing tourist arrivals creating a ‘critical mass’ is essential.
The proliferation of boutique hotels is not the answer when physical resources are limited. The strategy of Mix development modalities as Jamaica is pursuing, with mega hotels, boutique and sharing accommodation i.e. Airbnb etc is the most effective way forward.
The essential element of the strategy though is the production/Supply side of the wealth development equation! Jamaica’s focus must be on providing the goods and services that the Tourists demand to satisfy their consumption patterns! THATS WHERE THE REAL WEALTH OF TOURISM RESIDES! Agriculture, manufacturing, Creative Industries, Energy, Construction etc Then SERVICES; medical, financial, legal, entertainment, Restaurants, Shopping, transportation etc.
Please team let’s take a deeper dive in the confluence of economic moving parts that constitutes Tourism and recognize its elongated and expensive value chain so we can truly embrace the wealth it brings!”
Edmund Bartlett – Minister of Tourism Jamaica
Businessuite News24
A Legacy of Leadership: Dr. Marlene Street Forrest and the Future of the Jamaica Stock Exchange
Published
4 months agoon
June 25, 2024“As the JSE looks to the future, it will be crucial to find a leader who can match, if not exceed, Dr. Street Forrest’s impressive legacy.”
Introduction
Dr. Marlene Street Forrest, who has led the Jamaica Stock Exchange (JSE) for nearly two decades, is set to retire, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and resilience. Her tenure has been marked by significant achievements and overcoming challenges in a male-dominated field, setting a high bar for her successor.
Accomplishments and Achievements
Dr. Street Forrest’s tenure at the JSE has been transformative. Under her leadership, the JSE has seen a notable increase in market activity, listings, and the introduction of new financial instruments.
She spearheaded the launch of corporate secretarial services to assist smaller companies in maintaining compliance and accurate reporting, which is crucial for their growth and sustainability.
In recognition of her outstanding leadership, Dr. Street Forrest received several prestigious awards, including the Order of Distinction in the Rank of Commander (CD) in 2016 and the Afroglobal Excellence Award for Global Impact from Canada the same year.
Her efforts have not only enhanced the visibility and credibility of the JSE but have also contributed significantly to Jamaica’s economic resilience and development.
Overcoming Challenges
Leading the JSE in a male-dominated industry came with its challenges. Dr. Street Forrest often had to navigate skepticism and bias, proving her competence through relentless hard work and strategic vision.
The global financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic posed additional challenges, yet she successfully steered the JSE through these turbulent times by promoting market stability and investor confidence.
Her focus on digital transformation and enhancing regulatory compliance helped the JSE remain a pivotal player in Jamaica’s economic strategy. She emphasized the importance of high-quality, timely financial information and investor education, which are critical for maintaining market integrity and attracting capital.
The Road Ahead: What Her Successor Needs
As the search for Dr. Street Forrest’s successor begins, the JSE requires a leader who can build on her legacy of innovation and resilience. Key characteristics for the next managing director include:
Visionary Leadership: The ability to foresee and adapt to market trends and technological advancements.
Strong Regulatory Knowledge: Ensuring compliance and fostering investor trust through transparent practices.
Commitment to Digital Transformation: Embracing new technologies to enhance market operations and accessibility.
Economic Insight: Understanding market dynamics and economic policies to drive growth and stability.
Collaboration Skills: Building strong relationships with stakeholders, including regulators, investors, and listed companies.
Benchmarking against global stock exchange leaders, the new head of the JSE should embody a blend of strategic foresight, regulatory acumen, and innovative thinking. Leaders like Adena Friedman of Nasdaq and David Schwimmer of the London Stock Exchange exemplify these traits, balancing market growth with robust governance.
Conclusion
Dr. Marlene Street Forrest’s leadership at the JSE has set a high standard, marked by significant achievements and resilience in the face of challenges. Her successor will need to bring a mix of visionary leadership, regulatory knowledge, and a commitment to digital transformation to continue driving the JSE’s growth and success. As the JSE looks to the future, it will be crucial to find a leader who can match, if not exceed, Dr. Street Forrest’s impressive legacy.
Businessuite News24
Who is Leesa Kow? Managing Director, JN Bank and Chairman of the Caribbean Association of Banks (CAB)
Published
5 months agoon
June 8, 2024Leesa Kow is a distinguished leader in the financial sector, serving as the Managing Director of JN Bank and the Chairman of the Caribbean Association of Banks (CAB). Her career is marked by strategic vision and a commitment to digital transformation and financial inclusion.
Early Career and Professional Background
Leesa Kow joined JN Bank in 2003 as Senior Manager for Remittances. Her leadership capabilities quickly propelled her through various senior roles, including Executive of Marketing, Sales, and Promotion in 2006, and General Manager of JN Money Services Limited (JNMS) in 2008. At JNMS, Kow oversaw significant expansion, growing the company’s reach from 200 branches and agents to over 8,000 across three continents within three years, cementing JN Money as the largest remittance brand from the Caribbean.
Leadership at JN Bank
Kow’s ascent to the role of Managing Director in July 2022 followed her tenure as Deputy Managing Director from November 2017. As Deputy Managing Director, she was instrumental in implementing JN Bank’s digitalisation initiatives, enhancing operational efficiency and customer service. Her strategic focus on technology and innovation has been pivotal in transforming JN Bank into a more agile and customer-centric institution.
Contributions to the Financial Industry
Beyond her work at JN Bank, Kow has significantly impacted the broader financial services sector. Her tenure as president of the Jamaica Money Remitters Association from 2012 to 2017 showcased her leadership in advocating for the remittance industry. In October 2022, she was elected Chair of the Caribbean Association of Banks (CAB), where she continues to influence regional banking policies and practices.
Educational Background
Leesa Kow’s academic credentials are impressive, holding a Bachelor of Science degree in Management Studies and Accounting (First Class Honours) and a Master of Science degree in International Business (Distinction) from The University of the West Indies. These qualifications underscore her strong foundation in business leadership and strategic management.
Impact and Vision
Under Kow’s leadership, JN Bank has made significant strides in digital transformation, positioning itself as a forward-thinking financial institution. Her vision for the future includes continued emphasis on innovation, customer service excellence, and financial inclusion. Kow’s influence extends across the Caribbean, as she leverages her roles to advocate for advancements in the banking sector and to support regional economic development.
Leesa Kow’s journey from senior manager to managing director of JN Bank exemplifies her dedication, strategic foresight, and impactful leadership. Her contributions to the financial sector and her role in shaping regional banking policies make her a notable figure in Caribbean banking, inspiring the next generation of female leaders in finance.
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