Standard Bank Jersey has long been dedicated to making a positive impact in Jersey’s community.

Andrea John, head of risk and a director at Standard Bank Jersey, sheds light on the significance of community involvement and shares the valuable contributions made by the bank and its employees to the Island’s community in recent years.

When did you join Standard Bank Jersey?

I joined Standard Bank Jersey in March 2020 at the beginning of the Covid pandemic. Starting a new job during such a challenging time was tough, but it was an experience I will never forget. My introduction to Standard Bank was great despite the challenges, but being in the office with colleagues has certainly enhanced my experience by being around such a motivated and talented team.

How does the bank engage with the Jersey community based on your experience so far?

I have been thoroughly impressed with the scope and influence of the community initiatives the bank participates in. Our support extends to strategic partners like Beresford Street Kitchen, as well as charities such as Brighter Futures, who lend a helping hand to Jersey families.

We have recently collaborated with the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, supporting the charity with its amazing summer Tortoise Takeover. We also encourage a wide variety of employee-led projects, ranging from eco-volunteering such as tree planting to educational initiatives. For example, colleagues recently assisted Rouge Bouillon School with the opening of its new library.

As a member of the Jersey community, how crucial do you believe corporate support for Island activities and events is?

Philanthropy is deeply ingrained in the Jersey community and encompasses support for the Island’s people, wildlife and natural environment. Whether our colleagues are assisting others or striving to preserve the planet, giving back is not only the right thing to do but incredibly rewarding for employees.

Outside your working environment, do you find that Jersey offers residents ample opportunity to feel part of a community? If so, what is your personal highlight?

In Jersey, there is a diverse array of community activities, including the annual Battle of Flowers festival and its legendary floral parade, as well as village fetes, numerous sporting events and some exceptionally fun fundraising events.

One stand-out experience for me was participating in the White Collar Darts event to support Brighter Futures – a charity close to Standard Bank Jersey’s heart. It was an absolute blast getting to know the players and coaches and competing in front of a large audience truly pushed me out of my comfort zone – and all for a fantastic cause.

Of the causes supported by the bank, which ones do you feel particularly proud of?

One of the bank’s strategic partners, Ripple Effect, works closely with families in rural Africa. Their mission is to empower farmers by providing them with the knowledge to improve their yields and increase sales. By doing so, they can reinvest in their farms, support their children’s education and establish sustainable agri-businesses.

A significant aspect of Ripple Effect’s approach is to focus on supporting women farmers and individuals with disabilities, with a particular emphasis on regions most affected by climate change. Seeing first-hand the positive impact the charity’s work has had on the lives of African communities aligns perfectly with the core values of Standard Bank Offshore Group, reinforcing our vision ‘Africa is our home, and we drive her growth’.

Are there any charities, community organisations or activities that you are passionate about supporting personally?

The Independent Prison Monitoring Board is a cause that is of particular interest to me. I have served as a member of the board since 2018 and, for the past 18 months, have held the position of chair. The IPMB’s primary objective is to ensure that prisoners receive adequate treatment and care while supporting the prison’s mission to reintegrate individuals into society as better citizens.

Given Jersey is a small island community, where many of us may know someone who has experienced imprisonment or has been a victim of crime, this work holds immense value.

How does the bank assist its colleagues in enriching their experiences outside the office?

Standard Bank actively fosters a culture of volunteering and community engagement, with colleagues given two days of ‘community leave’ per annum, in which they can volunteer at a Jersey charity of their choice.

In three words, how would you describe life at the bank?

Collaborative, professional, welcoming.

In three words, how would you describe the sense of community in Jersey?

Nurturing, giving, supportive.

To view our latest vacancies and Our People Promise, visit the Standard Bank website

Standard Bank Jersey Ltd is licensed by the Jersey Financial Services Commission with its registered office at Standard Bank House, 47-49 La Motte Street, St Helier, Jersey, JE2 4SZ. Registered in Jersey No 12999.