Lewis Omilo
Lewis Omilo
I am applying to serve as a member-elected Non-Executive Director of the Channel Islands Co-operative Society (the Society) because I strongly believe in the value of organisations that combine commercial success with a genuine commitment to their members and the communities they serve, which has been my experience with the Society.
I believe that the Society is built on principles that I deeply identify with: democratic member control, participation, education, independence, and concern for community. These principles reflect the belief that businesses should exist not only to generate profit but also to create sustainable value for people and society. This is a philosophy I strongly relate to in my personal journey as well as my professional experience.
I am particularly enthusiastic about community because I have personally experienced the difference that community support can make in someone’s life. During my university education, I was fortunate to receive support towards some of my tuition fees through community-based assistance. That experience left a lasting impression on me. It reinforced the importance of communities investing in people and creating opportunities that enable individuals to grow and contribute meaningfully to society.
Since moving to Jersey, I have also seen first-hand the important role the Society plays in everyday life for islanders. My own family as well as other families close to me have benefited from these in many practical ways. From using the Society’s retail stores and fuel stations, to accessing the pharmacy when needed, and most recently, switching to the Coop Mobile, the Society has been a consistent and trusted presence in our day-to-day lives.
There have also been moments where the value of membership became particularly tangible. For example, times when important electronics or utilities got abruptly damaged at very crucial times, and I was able to quickly purchase an affordable replacement from the Grand-Marche, using the member prices and discounts that made a practical difference. The annual dividend is another reminder that the Society operates differently from traditional businesses - returning value directly to members.
Professionally, I bring professional experience in governance, risk management, financial oversight, and regulatory advisory. I currently work as Compliance Advisor at a leading financial services firm in Jersey. My role involves advising on regulatory requirements, regulatory developments, supporting the governance of strategic initiatives and helping ensure that business decisions are taken within robust risk and compliance frameworks.
Before my current role, I worked with professional services, and financial services organisations, in both advisory and hands-on capacities and in many cases, I had the opportunity of supporting organisations in achieving both financial and non-financial objectives. Some of my most rewarding assignments were those where I could see the direct or indirect impact of our work on the community.
If elected to the Board, I believe I could add value to the Society in three key areas.
First, governance and oversight. Strong governance is essential to maintaining trust, accountability, and long-term sustainability. My professional background involves working closely with senior leaders and regulators to ensure organisations operate with robust governance frameworks and effective risk management. As a Non-Executive Director,
I would bring independent oversight while supporting management in delivering the Society’s strategy.
Second, financial stewardship and commercial sustainability. As both a chartered accountant and management accountant, I understand the importance of balancing commercial performance with responsible stewardship of resources. The Society plays a vital role in Jersey’s retail and community landscape, and maintaining strong financial foundations is essential to protecting member value and enabling continued investment in employees, services, and community initiatives.
Third, community impact and member value. One of the aspects I most admire about the co-operative movement is its commitment to reinvesting in communities - the Coop Community Fund is one very practical example. I would be keen to support initiatives that strengthen member engagement, promote sustainability, and ensure that the Society continues to meet the evolving needs of its members.
Personally, I value listening, collaboration, and thoughtful decision-making. In my professional roles I work with people with varying perspectives, backgrounds and experiences, and effective governance depends on respectful dialogue, openness to challenge and a shared focus on common goals.
The Channel Islands Co-operative Society has been an important part of Jersey life for a long time. Its continued success depends on maintaining the trust of members, adapting to change, and staying true to the co-operative principles that define it.
If elected to serve as a Non-Executive Director, I would bring integrity and a genuine passion for community. I would approach the role with independence of judgement, a willingness to listen and a strong commitment to helping the Society continue to thrive for the benefit of its members and the wider Jersey community.
Proposer – Oladunjoye Olaleye
Seconder – Deborah Afolami
