What is your role at Close Finance CI?

For the past seven months, I have been Operations and Risk Director for Close Finance CI (CFCI). This role involves ensuring Close Finance delivers an efficient, high-quality service to our business and personal customers in both Jersey and Guernsey.

One of our key differentiators is the way we can respond quickly to customers’ needs in a fair and responsible way, based on a good understanding of our clients’ individual circumstances.

What do you like best about working at Close Finance CI?

I enjoy working with such a great bunch of people. We have fantastic team of dedicated colleagues in both our Jersey and Guernsey offices, and it is these people, taking pride in what they do every day, that have contributed to our success over many years. Also, we have an incredibly loyal and supportive customer base for whom we are the ‘go to’ option when they need financial support.

Finally, we work with several partners, brokers, and motor dealers on both islands – these relationships are so valuable in helping to ensure our customers are well looked after and that the services we provide are tailored to their needs.

What’s your favourite thing about the Channel Islands?

I feel very fortunate to have lived in Jersey with my family around me for almost 20 years – it’s a beautiful island with lots to do and we are especially spoilt by an amazing choice of restaurants (I love food!). The Channel Islands are just one step removed from the rest of the world – but with good access links when we need to reconnect.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

A saying which I think is significant is: ‘If you think serving is beneath you, you will find that leadership is beyond you.’

Good leadership does not just involve thinking of how things should be done and then telling other people to do it – you need to get ‘stuck in’ and play your part in delivering. Get your sleeves rolled up, be part of the team, support others and take responsibility

What’s something about you that would surprise people?

My favourite type of pizza is one without cheese!

What’s your number one bucket list holiday destination?

I’m keen to spend some more time exploring the Scottish Highlands – I think the stunning scenery up there is still one of the best kept secrets in the UK. My real bucket list holiday destination however is still a chilled holiday in a waterfront villa somewhere in the Maldives, dipping in the Indian Ocean when it gets too warm.