Words like "crisis" and "shock" are being used to describe the latest departure of a CEO and Head of Public Service in Jersey, after the government announced the departure of Suzanne Wylie, who will be returning to Northern Ireland to take on the role of Chief Executive of the Northern Irish Chamber of Commerce.
According to reports in local media the change leaves the government in crisis, as it marks the fourth departer in five years from the top job in running the administration.
The Bailiwick Express has reported that Wylie's resignation was actually handed in to the Chief Minister a week ago, but that the States Employment Board was only informed on 22 March. It added that it understood the contract for the role included a six-month notice period, but that could be waived on mutual consent.
At the time of her appointement announced in September 2022, Wylie commented: "I know the civil service is going through significant change and I will take Paul's [then Interim Chief Executive, Paul Martin] advice on continuing to lead and support civil servants through that change, taking time to listen to diverse perspectives and nurturing Islanders to advance into leadership positions across government."
Martin then commented: "I would like to thank the people of Jersey for the opportunity to serve the Island and I congratulate Suzanne in securing the role. When Suzanne arrives in February, I will hand over my duties as Chief Executive and support her during a handover period. I know she will find Jersey as welcoming and wonderful an experience as I have since arriving in March."
The government's announcement of 22 March 2023 on Wylie's departure noted: "The Chief Minister, Deputy Kristina Moore, has accepted the resignation and confirmed that a proper appointment process will be put in place to ensure a planned transition and for the organisation to continue to deliver for the public."
Moore suggested that Wylie will still have a hand in ongoing government work before her successor is announced: "Suzanne will continue in these endeavors for the next few months while we look to appoint a successor."
