Former Chamber President takes temporary charge

Wednesday, 24 June 2026 09:46

A former Jersey Chamber of Commerce president has returned to the role temporarily after Lee Madden stepped down following a backlash to a donation he made to a political movement.

Eliot Lincoln, who was vice-president and then president until 2019, will take interim charge for a year.

Lee Madden resigned before the 7 June general election because of concerns around a private donation to political grouping Value Jersey, admitting it had led to a loss of confidence in his position.

Chamber President announces resignation over donation backlash

At the business organisation's AGM, Darren Scott, CEO of the Ferryspeed Group was confirmed as Vice President, while Claire Reynard, Group Human Resources Manager for Seymour Hotels was appointed Chair of the Employment and Skills Committee.

A statement said:

"Chamber recorded its thanks and appreciation for Mr Madden’s dedication and hard work during his time as President and Vice President."

At the time of his departure, Mr Madden said it had not been an easy decision, but one he had taken with the best interests of the Chamber in mind. recognising that the personal donation - an undisclosed sum made 18 months prior - had raised concerns.

In the run up to the election, candidates aligned to Value Jersey campaigned heavily for a discount supermarket such as Aldi or Lidl in the island.

"The Chamber now needs to move forward with clarity, confidence, and collective focus, and I sincerely hope that my decision helps create the space for that to happen."