Corporate Governance

Strong governance that supports strategic objectives and safeguards stakeholder trust

Governance Overview

FCJ is committed to strong corporate governance that supports its strategic objectives and safeguards stakeholder trust. Good governance is essential for transparent, accountable, and effective operations and is central to delivering on FCJ's mission to develop sustainable commercial and industrial spaces across Jamaica.

Six Pillars of Good Corporate Governance

Accountability

Transparency

Fairness

Responsibility

Efficiency

Independence

These principles have constantly underpinned FCJ's long-term sustainability, enabling the organisation to create and deliver lasting value for stakeholders.

Role of the Board

Board Oversight

The principal role of the Board is to oversee the implementation of FCJ's strategic initiatives and its functioning within the agreed framework, under the overall statutory and regulatory structure. This ensures the adequacy and optimal functioning of FCJ's financial and operational systems and internal control, as well as the implementation of corporate ethics and code of conduct.

All policies pertaining to the company's operation and functioning are approved by the Board.

Strategic Leadership

The Chairman of the Board provides strategic policy oversight, while the Managing Director oversees operational execution, supported by a cadre of senior managers who implement Board decisions, projects, and operational mandates.

FCJ remains committed to upholding the highest standards of ethical conduct, accountability, and transparency at all levels.

Delegation and Accountability

While the Board of Directors has ultimate responsibility for FCJ's governance, the Board delegates the responsibility for day-to-day management to the Managing Director. This separation of roles ensures clarity and accountability.

Corporate Governance Structure

The governance structure of FCJ is outlined below

Portfolio Minister
Shareholders
Board of Directors
Managing Director
Senior Management
Staff
Stakeholders

Board Composition and Skills

In June 2024, the FCJ Board of Directors was reappointed for a new two-year term, from June 10, 2024 to June 9, 2026. The current Board comprises ten members, including the Managing Director.

Board Diversity

Board Composition by Gender

70%

Male 7 members

10 members

30%

Female 3 members

Board Member Competencies

Project Management 100%

General Management 100%

Corporate Governance 100%

Government Operations 100%

The FCJ Board brings together a well-rounded mix of professional experience and sectoral knowledge to support sound governance and effective decision-making. Directors collectively hold deep expertise in corporate governance, government operations, and general management—ensuring the organisation is led with integrity, public sector insight, and operational competence.

Many directors have project management backgrounds, which supports rigorous oversight of FCJ's development projects. Others bring specialist capabilities in engineering, finance, accounting, legal affairs, and human capital management. The Board is further strengthened by expertise in marketing, communications, GSS, and risk management.

Board Competencies

Board Skills & Competencies Matrix

Hover over or focus a competency to highlight the directors who hold it.

Strategic Leadership

Highlight by honour:

Honourable Lyttleton Shirley

Chairman

“Good governance never depends upon laws, but upon the personal qualities of those who govern.” — Frank Herbert

Role of the Chairman The Chairman serves as the leader of the Board of Directors and is responsible for ensuring that the Board functions effectively, independently, and in the best interest of the organisation and its stakeholders. This includes providing strategic guidance, fostering a culture of high governance standards, and facilitating open and constructive dialogue during Board deliberations.

Dr. Donald Farquharson

Managing Director

“Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge.” — Simon Sinek

Role of the Managing Director The Managing Director is responsible for the day-to-day operations and overall management of the Corporation, under the strategic direction and oversight of the Board. This role includes developing and executing business strategies aligned with FCJ's mandate, driving operational performance, managing risk, and ensuring compliance with legal, regulatory, and policy requirements.

Dirkette Cooper

Corporate Secretary

“Behind every well-run Board is a Corporate Secretary, who knows the rules, respects the process, and protects the institution.” — Unknown

Role of the Corporate Secretary The Corporate Secretary is a key governance advisor to the Board, serving as a critical link between the Board, management, regulators, and shareholders. The Corporate Secretary supports the effective operation of the Board and its Committees, promotes adherence to legal and regulatory obligations, and upholds the principles of good governance.

Board Charter

Formal Charter Framework

The Board of Directors operates under a formal Board Charter that incorporates relevant provisions from the Companies Act, the Public Bodies Management and Accountability Act, and the Corporate Governance Framework for Public Bodies.

This Charter outlines the roles and responsibilities of the Board, particularly with respect to strategic leadership and corporate governance.

Charter Review Process

The Board Charter is reviewed biennially by the Corporate Governance Committee and subsequently approved by the full Board. These periodic reviews underscore the Board's proactive stance as an active participant in the governance and strategic direction of the organisation.

Performance Appraisal

Performance Evaluation

During the reporting period, the performance of the Managing Director was formally evaluated by the Chairman of the Board, using performance measures previously established and approved by the Board. Likewise, members of the Senior Management Team were assessed by the Managing Director, in consultation with the Human Resource Manager and the wider Management Team, based on agreed performance criteria.

Performance appraisals were also conducted for staff across all levels of the organisation. This process involved both self-assessments and evaluations completed by relevant supervisors or Heads of Department.

Continuous Improvement

FCJ's performance appraisal system is designed to drive continuous improvement by aligning individual contributions with organisational goals. It reinforces accountability, encourages objectivity in assessment, and supports stronger management-employee engagement.

This structured approach not only helps managers provide effective guidance to their teams but also deepens employees' understanding of how their work contributes to FCJ's overall success.

Awards & Recognition

FCJ's commitment to excellence in corporate governance has been recognized through multiple prestigious awards

FY 2024/25

7 Awards Received

FCJ representatives receiving a Ministry of Finance and the Public Service corporate governance award

The seven corporate governance awards received by the Factories Corporation of Jamaica for FY 2024/25

1st

Compliance and Disclosure of Information
Board Composition, Functions and Structure
Corporate Governance Policies, Procedures and Practices

2nd

The Greta Bogues Award: Excellence in Corporate Governance
Best Annual Report
Most Improved Public Body

3rd

Best Website

2024

Winner

Most Outstanding Chairman

Winner

Finance Minister's Award for Board Composition, Functions and Structure

1st Runner-Up

Greta Bogues Award for Excellence in Corporate Governance

3rd Place

Finance Secretary's Award for Risk Management & Internal Controls

2022

Overall Winner

Greta Bogues Award for Excellence in Corporate Governance

Winner

Best Annual Report

Winner

Finance Minister's Award for Board Composition, Functions and Structure

2nd Place

Ann Marie Rhoden Award for Compliance and Disclosure of Information

2020/2021

Winner

Best Website (for the second consecutive year)

2nd Place Overall

Greta Bogues Corporate Governance Awards

2nd Place

Best Annual Report (for the second consecutive year)

Continuous Recognition

FCJ continues to receive recognition for its governance practices, operational excellence, and contribution to Jamaica's economic development. These awards reflect our ongoing commitment to maintaining the highest standards of corporate governance and public service delivery.

Transparent Governance

Learn more about FCJ's commitment to excellence in corporate governance and stakeholder value creation.