Gareth Fooks
Gareth Fooks
I am standing for election as a Non-Executive Director of the Channel Islands’ Co-operative Society because I believe deeply in the power of community-owned enterprise to deliver long-term, sustainable value for members. Having been born in Guernsey, worked across both islands, and built a career grounded in financial stewardship, strategic leadership, and people-centred values, I care strongly about the future of our islands and the role the Co-op plays in shaping resilient, inclusive communities.
Throughout my career, including senior leadership positions across utilities, telecoms, government and regulated sectors, I have specialised in strengthening financial performance, improving governance, and helping organisations navigate change while staying true to their purpose. I’ve been a qualified accountant for nearly 20 years and have led large teams, overseen complex budgets, delivered organisation-wide reforms, and provided board-level challenge that is constructive, evidence-based, and commercially grounded. My experience spans multiple ownership structures, including corporate-owned, private equity and local government, giving me a strong appreciation of different stakeholder expectations and the importance of balancing profit with purpose.
The Coop’s 2025 Annual Report demonstrates an organisation committed to its values (community, fairness, openness, responsibility) and to listening closely to members. Member pricing, expanded pharmacy services, investment in local producers, enhanced sustainability commitments, and continued support for community initiatives all show a business shaping itself around member needs. These achievements are especially meaningful given the challenging environment of recent years: rising costs, global instability, supply chain pressures, and changing consumer habits. I believe my skills and experience can help the Co-op continue this positive momentum. The recent launch of Coop mobile is something I can bring over a decade of experience to, and I would truly be proud to be part of delivering a sustainable mobile market across the islands with real choice for users.
Financial sustainability remains critical to protecting long-term member value. In my role as Head of Finance for the States of Guernsey, and previously as CFO in multiple organisations, I have improved financial controls, strengthened forecasting, delivered cost efficiency programmes, and supported investment decisions that balance short term pressures with long term resilience. The Coop’s need to manage liquidity, protect member capital, and ensure robust investment appraisal aligns closely with the work I have delivered throughout my career. I am comfortable challenging assumptions respectfully, interrogating financial information, and ensuring decisions are rooted in clarity and prudence.
I am also passionate about emotionally intelligent leadership, creating environments where colleagues feel valued, empowered, and equipped to do their best work. The Coop’s focus on colleague wellbeing, development, and recognition resonates strongly with my own leadership approach. I have completed formal training in inspiring leadership through emotional intelligence and have seen first-hand how inclusive culture, open communication, and shared accountability transform organisational performance. I would bring this people-centred approach to board discussions, recognising that culture is as essential to success as financial strategy.
Sustainability and community impact are core to the Coop’s identity and essential to the islands’ future. The Society’s Blueprint for a Sustainable Future—particularly its commitments around reducing carbon impact, supporting local suppliers, tackling food waste, and promoting health and wellbeing—are areas where I hold strong personal alignment. My experience working with regulators, local government, and industry partners across multiple jurisdictions has taught me the value of long-term thinking and collaborative solutions. I would be committed to supporting the Coop as it builds a net zero pathway, strengthens local partnerships, and invests in community initiatives that make a tangible difference across Jersey and Guernsey.
If elected, I would bring integrity, independence of thought, and a strong sense of responsibility to the board and, more importantly, to the members the board serves. I believe the role of a Non-Executive Director is to support and challenge in equal measure—asking the right questions, championing members’ interests, ensuring good governance, and empowering the executive to deliver.
It would be a privilege to use my experience, judgment, and commitment to serve our members and help guide the Co-op through the opportunities and challenges ahead. I respectfully ask for your support in this election.
Proposer – Karen Horsey
Seconder – Karen Anne Fooks
