Appleby sponsors IOD Debate about Jersey's future

The event, entitled Jersey’s Economic Future: The IoD Debate, is hosted by journalist and broadcaster Natasha Kaplinsky, alongside IoD Jersey Chair Alex Ruddy, and aims to create a shared vision for a competitive and sustainable jurisdiction.

Industry leaders and experts will join the debate and give insights into Jersey’s current economic situation and potential. A series of working groups will then refine Jersey’s strategic vision and formulate actionable steps towards sustaining and growing Jersey’s economy.

James Gaudin, Managing Partner, said: ‘Appleby Jersey is proud to be at the forefront of such a significant event for our Island. We have always recognised the importance of working with those at the cutting edge of our amazing industry to batter understand and grow our economy. This forum promises to be thought-provoking and is an opportunity to discuss and reflect on our combined experience, different perspectives and, of course, our vision to help shape the future of Jersey.’

Chair of IoD Jersey Alex Ruddy said: “We are delighted that Appleby has chosen to sponsor this pivotal event for the business community. Attending the debate on Jersey’s future economy and sustainability is crucial for business leaders. It provides a unique platform to shape a vision and strategy that aligns with our collective goals. By participating, we ensure our voices are heard, our insights are valued, and we contribute to a manifesto that will guide Jersey towards a prosperous and sustainable future. This is not just an opportunity, but a responsibility to influence the direction of our community and economy for the better.”

The Debate will focus on:

• SWOT Analysis of Jersey: A chance to critically examine the strengths that can be leveraged into opportunities, as well as the weaknesses threatening the sustainability of our island economy.
• Strategic Vision for Jersey: The debate will explore the ways we can capitalize on Jersey’s advantages while addressing key challenges.
• Collaboration with Key Organisations: Insights from the Chamber of Commerce, Jersey Business, Digital Jersey plus trade organisations Jersey Construction Council, Jersey Farmers’ Union and Jersey Hospitality Association who are collaborating with us in this important work, will be integrated into the conversation.

Its knowledgeable panel of industry leaders includes General Sir Peter Wall, Michael Oliver, Zena Couppey and Murray Norton (more details below).

Jersey’s Economic Future: The IoD Debate is on 5.30-10.30pm, Thursday 24 April at the Royal Yacht.

To register: Jersey’s Economic Future: The IoD Debate Tickets, Thu, Apr 24, 2025 at 5:30 PM | Eventbrite

Meet The panel:

General Sir Peter Wall 

Peter retired as Chief of the British Army in 2015 following a full and active career. He has extensive experience in dealing with British and foreign governments at the highest levels and a proven track record in the strategic leadership of large and complex organisations. He is a recognised speaker on geopolitics and military command techniques in business.

Peter is a Director of the General Dynamics Corporation and President of Combat Stress, the UK military mental health charity, and is a visiting professor at Exeter University. He’s an avid follower of sport, sails and skis, and plays the occasional game of village cricket.

Michael Oliver 

Dr Michael J. Oliver is an economist and co-founder of Global Partnership Family Offices (GPFO). He has spent 35 years teaching at universities in the UK, US and France and is Senior Lecturer in Finance at the Open University Business School, publishing on economic history and macroeconomic policy. He has been an economic adviser to Jersey’s Corporate Affairs Scrutiny Panel and a member of the Migration Policy Board.

Formerly an associate of Lombard Street Research, he has combined academic work with executive education and consultancy for family offices and corporations. GPFO was born from this in 2009, allowing family offices to speak to peers around topics of mutual relevance. GPFO is now the pre-eminent family office association with members in 20+ jurisdiction and has become a central hub for family offices as they navigate the changing landscape of private wealth.

Zena Couppey 

Zena is the CEO of Altum Group and is the first female to lead the business. She is responsible for the group’s strategic leadership and continued delivery of exceptional quality services to its clients.

Zena has more than 24 years of financial services experience that extends across all aspects of the industry. Her successful track record is built through many years of working with Institutional Investors, Sovereign Wealth Funds, and Family Offices.

She is a regular speaker at industry events and is an advocate for championing Diversity and Inclusion. She’s won Gold at the Citywealth Powerwomen awards for three consecutive years and has been named in INVolve’s Top 100 Women Executives List.

Murray Norton 

Murray is the Chief Executive of the Jersey Chamber of Commerce, representing the island’s business community. A seasoned event host and auctioneer, he actively supports charitable organizations. Previously, Murray served as Assistant Minister for Economic Development, Tourism, Sport, and Culture until 2018, during his tenure as a Deputy in the States Assembly of Jersey.

His diverse career includes 21 years as a BBC radio presenter, stints with Channel 103, and roles in online TV presenting and voiceover work. An entrepreneur, he owned Murray’s and The Quai restaurants and has experience in travel writing, fundraising, and hospitality management.