As I stand for re-election as a Director of The Channel Islands Co-Operative Society, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude for the opportunity to serve our society, and thereby our wider community, for the past three years.

Reflecting on my first term as Director and Chairman, I am proud of the strides we've made in upholding the Coop's values and commitment to our community. Initiatives like the Community Fund demonstrate that our actions align with our words, making a tangible difference in people's lives.

We have continued to invest in the future of our society and community against a backdrop of many challenges to our business, ranging from very high cost price inflation, hikes in interest rates, the Ukraine conflict and the ongoing complexities of Brexit on our supply chain. We have had to make tough decisions to ensure the Society continues to create value for our members.

During my tenure as Chairman, I have prioritised fostering a culture of robust and inclusive debate within our board meetings, recognising that diverse perspectives lead to better decision-making. I have ensured that all directors feel empowered to contribute their unique expertise and insights, creating an environment where every voice is heard and valued.

The board have upheld the principle of holding the executive team accountable, ensuring that their actions align with the strategic vision and values of our cooperative.

Ultimately, my approach to the role of Chair has been centred on maximising the collective strengths of our board, allowing each director to bring their particular style and expertise to the table for the benefit of the whole society.

We are fortunate that we have had a strong and diverse board during my term, and I believe the element of continuity I offer to Guernsey members over the forthcoming term would be advantageous.

Our colleagues are key to all we can achieve. I believe a focus on fostering employee engagement and ensuring customer satisfaction is key to our success. By championing programs that prioritise both, we have not only strengthened our internal operations but also enhanced the overall experience for our members and customers.

My background as a qualified accountant has been invaluable in providing strategic governance, particularly in managing our diverse portfolio of assets. The ongoing Leale's Yard development presents both challenges and opportunities, and I am committed to leveraging my financial expertise and strong understanding of local needs to ensure its successful progression for the benefit of our community.

In addressing areas for improvement, such as fresh produce provision, I am dedicated to implementing strategies that uphold our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Balancing innovation with our core values is essential, and I am steadfast in my commitment to advancing the Co-Op while staying true to our roots.

Central to my leadership style is a commitment to collaboration and inclusivity. I believe in fostering an environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and constructive dialogue leads to meaningful progress. Together, we can navigate the challenges ahead and seize the opportunities that lie before us.

Looking ahead, my key priorities include continuing to enhance our member offerings, strengthening our community partnerships, and ensuring that the Co-Op remains an example of integrity and service. I am humbled by the trust you have placed in me thus far and respectfully ask for your support as we embark on this journey together once again.

Thank you for considering me to represent you as a Director of The Channel Islands Co-Operative Society. Your vote is not just a symbol of support but a commitment to the values and vision that unite us as a community.