Geoff Cook has served for almost 12 years as Jersey Finance’s chief executive, leading the organisation through the financial crisis and repeated attacks on its reputation.
He has also played a key role in the finance industry’s preparations for Brexit and has passionately promoted Jersey on the world stage.
Mr Cook, who is due to leave his post in February 2019, now plans to pursue non-executive director and adviser roles, hopefully, he says, in Jersey. And a recruitment process for a successor is currently under way.
He said: ‘I am so proud to have been at the heart of this great organisation for the past 12 years, working with a fantastic team, key partners and members to grow our finance industry, an industry that is now recognised globally as a leading international finance centre. It is an opportune moment for a new leader with a fresh perspective to help shape the future direction of our industry.
‘After a long and privileged career as an ambassador for Jersey, I plan to transition to a non-executive career in financial services as a board director and adviser. I would like to thank my team, peers, partners and the Jersey Finance members and board for their continued support over the years and I am confident that this organisation and our industry will continue to go from strength to strength.’
The news of Mr Cook’s departure comes just weeks after it was announced that John Harris had stepped down as the director-general of the Jersey Financial Services Commission, also after 12 years in the role. He cited health reasons and a ‘risk of burnout’ as the reason for his departure.
Jersey Finance chairman Gunther Thumann described Mr Cook, who previously worked in banking in London, as a ‘brilliant’ ambassador for Jersey who had played a pivotal role in shaping the Island’s future through his expertise, commitment and passion.
And External Relations Minister Ian Gorst, who in his previous role as Chief Minister had responsibility for finance, added: ‘Having worked with Geoff for a number of years, I would like to thank him for his outstanding service to the financial services industry and to the Island. It has been a pleasure to work alongside Geoff and share his enthusiasm and dedication to the success of our international finance centre.’
Mr Cook is to continue as chairman of the Jersey Employment Trust charity, which helps people with a disability to prepare for, find and maintain employment in Jersey.
