Ms Jennifer Potter has been appointed to spearhead an ambitious reconceptualisation and repositioning of the Robert Mathavious Institute (RMI) at the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC). Photo: HLSCC

The Robert Mathavious Institute seeks to build upon its existing foundation and better serve the evolving professional development needs of the Virgin Islands’ financial services industry. Photo: HLSCC

Ms Potter is the Executive Director of The Gorda Group Ltd., and the college said her appointment comes at a significant juncture in the Institute’s development, as the RMI seeks to build upon its existing foundation and better serve the evolving professional development needs of the Virgin Islands’ financial services industry.

This transition will bring a renewed emphasis on industry responsiveness, commercial sustainability and international relevance.

Ms Potter has over 25 years of experience

Ms Potter steps into the role with more than 25 years of experience spanning executive leadership roles and governance functions across the public and private sectors

She previously held senior executive responsibilities within the BVI Financial Services Commission, including as Deputy Managing Director, overseeing critical operational portfolios and major transformation initiatives.  Her expertise extends to commercial governance, strategic advisory and board leadership across private enterprises and statutory institutions.       

“Jennifer’s onboarding reflects a deliberate investment in the specialist expertise necessary to guide the future-proofing of the RMI. Her extensive experience in institutional transformation and deep understanding of the BVI’s financial services industry position her extraordinarily well to lead this undertaking,” HLSCC President Dr Richard E. Georges said. 

An opportunity to continue Dr Mathavious’ legacy- Jennifer Potter

Ms Potter said, “This is a unique opportunity to continue carrying forward Mr Mac’s indelible legacy. His vision was never limited to the success of the industry at a particular moment, but carried an intrinsic commitment to building the institutional capacity and professional expertise necessary for the Virgin Islands to continue distinguishing itself on the global stage.”

She said she is excited to bring together strategic thinking, industry engagement and practical implementation to help the RMI realise more of its potential. 

“A key achievement of this exercise will be the effective translation of the Institute’s capabilities into meaningful opportunities for professional advancement, particularly for young Virgin Islanders, while strengthening the talent pipeline available to the industry.” 

Ms Potter will work closely with the College’s President, Senior Management Team and Board of Governors to advance a more commercial strategic direction that complements HLSCC’s broader mandate and advances the Territory’s long-term human capital development.

The initiative will focus on strengthening industry engagement, diversifying professional programmes and revenue opportunities, and expanding partnerships with international professional bodies and educational institutions.