First Global Financial Services (FGFS), together with Jamaica International Insurance Company, launched their joint Liguanea branch on Tuesday January 31, at the Jade Gardens Restaurant in Sovereign Centre.

Karen Silvera (centre), FGFS/JIIC Sovereign Branch's first client, happily holds a beautiful basket of flowers which she received at the launch. Sharing the happy moment with her are Andrew Levy JIIC's Managing Director, and  Sandra Shirley, President, FGFS

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of GraceKennedy Ltd. Douglas Orane started the evening's proceedings by welcoming the guests and inviting feedback and comments.  His opening remarks were followed by Joe Taffe, GK's Chief Operating Officer - Financial Services Division, who elaborated on the decision to expand to Sovereign Centre and the expectations for the division going forward.

Chairman/CEO Douglas Orane (2nd right) speaking with Joe Taffe (centre), Chief Operating Officer, Financial Services Division and other attendees at the launch.

Mr. Taffe noted that the Sovereign Centre location was opened in response to concerns relating to access to the New Kingston location expressed by a large portion of the client base. He said that the Sovereign location was identified to house the two companies in response to clients' needs and to fulfill the mandate of personalized service.

He added that the joint operation of the two entities in one location created a unique opportunity for the companies' clients to access general insurance and investments under one roof.

Paul Mitchell (left) JIIC's Director of Finance, in discussion with (from left) Andrew Levy, JIIC's Managing Director; Peter Moss-Solomon and Douglas Orane at the launch of the Sovereign Office.

The cocktail reception attracted over one hundred of the community's business owners/managers and residents. Guests included Trevor Blake, General Manager of the Eastern Caribbean Stock Exchange; Dr. Blossom O'Meally-Nelson; Leighton McKnight of PricewaterhouseCoopers; Christopher Bovell of DunnCox; Errol Gregory, Financial Analyst; Sethuraman Kumaraswamy of HD Hopwood & Company Ltd.; and Monica Ladd of the law firm, Myers Fletcher and Gordon.

Posted: February 06, 2005