Insights from our President, Lee Madden, July 2025

It has been a fantastic month and my first as President. I have quickly realised that our island's prosperity hinges on the strength of our collaboration with industry, the trust and unity we build with the Government of Jersey, and our collective commitment to working together for a positive future.

In these challenging times, it is imperative that we foster a robust partnership between the business community and the government. This collaboration is not just about dialogue but about actionable steps that lead to tangible outcomes. We must work hand in hand to create an environment where businesses can thrive, innovate, and contribute to the overall economic health of Jersey.

One of the key areas where we will focus our efforts is deregulation and enablement. The current regulatory framework, while well-intentioned, often poses significant barriers to business growth and innovation across all sectors. By modernising and streamlining these regulations, we can create a more conducive environment for businesses to operate efficiently and effectively. This will not only benefit the business community but also enhance the overall economic landscape of our island,

A recent visit to Jersey by a group of French politicians had them comment how surprised that they were by the lack of cranes on our skyline, the lack of capital projects is a significant barrier to economic growth. The construction sector, a vital component of our economy, has been particularly affected by this issue. The underspend in capital projects not only hampers the construction industry but also has a ripple effect on other sectors. It is crucial that we address this issue head-on and work with our government to ensure that funds allocated for capital projects are utilised effectively and efficiently.

Moreover, the need for money to be released into the economy cannot be overstated. Economic confidence is closely linked to business and individual well-being. When economic confidence is low, individuals may feel more vulnerable and anxious about their prospects. By ensuring that funds are released into the economy, we can stimulate growth, create jobs, and enhance the overall well-being of our community.

Mental health, particularly in this regard, men's mental health, is another critical issue that demands our attention. The pressures of modern life, coupled with the unique challenges faced by men, have led to a concerning rise in mental health issues and sadly suicides. As business leaders, we have a responsibility to ensure the well-being of our colleagues and employees of all genders. By investing in mental health training and raising awareness, we can equip our members to recognise and respond to mental health concerns, our recent collaboration with the IoD and Mind Jersey is a testament to our commitment to this cause.

In conclusion, Chamber is committed to fostering collaboration with industry, building trust and unity with the Government of Jersey, and working together to create a prosperous future for our island. By focusing on deregulation and enablement, tackling the lack of capital projects, and ensuring the release of funds into the economy, we can drive economic growth and improve the quality of life for all residents of Jersey.

Let us move forward with a shared vision and a collective commitment to making Jersey a better place for everyone.