Re_Set worked with Ports of Jersey to set high-level sustainability ambitions – and ignited a sustainability movement within the organisation
When Ports of Jersey had ambitions of progressing its sustainability vision, it came to Re_Set. We worked with their leadership to co-create the foundations of a best-in-class strategy, which involved a definition of their ambitions, targets, and initiatives.
“Re_Set ignited a sustainability movement across our organisation. Not only is Re_Set’s passion for sustainability infectious, but their knowledge, expertise and approach have enabled us to create an ambitious and robust strategy that will maximise our future impact.”
Matt Thomas, CEO, Ports of Jersey
The challenge
Ports of Jersey, which represents maritime and aviation activity in Jersey, operates the gateway to the island, putting it in a unique position of influence. The island has been acutely affected by COVID-19 and Brexit. And while these issues have posed many challenges for businesses and the economy, they also present a unique opportunity to rebuild in a greener, more sustainable way.
With the effects of climate change, including rising sea levels, already becoming visible, leadership agreed that now was the time for change. They wanted to reposition the business to be purpose-led, and to inspire a change across the island. This would not only improve the wellbeing of residents, but also boost the Jersey economy, resulting in a more resilient and sustainable future.
This is where Re_Set came in – to work with the team on how to turn this ambition into an actionable strategy.
What we did
Re_Set worked collaboratively with Ports of Jersey leadership over a four-month period to set the business’s sustainability ambitions, and high-level targets.
We conducted more than 30 interviews with internal and external stakeholders to understand the business context, explore the industry landscape, and conduct competitor and disruptor analysis.
We then staged an intervention workshop to start laying the foundations for the sustainability strategy. A key part of this was understanding how to meet the needs of the present without compromising the needs of future generations – looking at the business impact vs societal impact of any new measures to create a company, and an island, that all are proud of.
From this, we created high-level themes and second-tier targets, as well as a strategic roadmap and a wider benefits case.
During the last few weeks of the project, we met frequently with the executive team to run through each target in detail. This led to discussions and iteration of the targets, with the main aim of creating something that was stretching but not unachievable.
“This was a fascinating project to be involved in, as it crossed three industries – airports, ports and real estate. The potential ripple effect it could have across Jersey is really exciting and is exactly the sort of multiplier effect we look for at Re_Set.”
Rick Benfield, Director, Re_Set
The final strategy comprised four key pillars:
- Climate – a transition to net zero
- Biodiversity – preserving Jersey’s water and promote thriving biodiversity
- Waste and circularity – designing out waste
- People – nurturing our employees, serving our local community, and encouraging sustainable community
The impact
Ports of Jersey now has a best-in-class sustainability strategy, The Ports Planet and People Plan, with a high-level of buy-in from the leadership team and a sustainability focus group. This includes a definition of industry-leading strategic ambitions, targets, and initiatives.
We have also educated and engaged 150 employees during the process, galvanising momentum for positive change within the organisation. This has led to an empowered leadership ready to tackle the most pressing issues of the day.
“The way that Re_Set combines deep sustainability expertise with robust strategic thinking and creative flair is outstanding,” said Matt Thomas, CEO, Ports of Jersey. “The results of our project together have exceeded my expectations and I would have no problem in recommended Re_Set to any CEO looking to leverage the opportunities around sustainability and use business as a force for good.”
“This was a fascinating project to be involved in, as it crossed three industries – airports, ports and real estate,” says Rick Benfield, Director, Re_Set. “The potential ripple effect it could have across Jersey is really exciting, and is exactly the sort of multiplier effect we look for at Re_Set.”
Want to know more? Get in touch with Rick, or sign up to our newsletter for more insights
