KINGSTON, Jamaica — GraceKennedy, the prominent Caribbean conglomerate, has announced with profound sorrow the passing of Mable Tenn, celebrated business pioneer and the company’s inaugural female board director. Tenn’s remarkable career spanned decades of transformative leadership and barrier-breaking achievements within Jamaica’s corporate landscape.
Her professional association with GraceKennedy commenced in 1952 when she assumed the role of secretary to Carlton Alexander, then serving as director. Demonstrating exceptional business acumen and determination, Tenn subsequently established multiple thriving entrepreneurial ventures that would eventually be incorporated into the GraceKennedy portfolio through acquisition.
In a historic corporate milestone, Tenn shattered the glass ceiling in 1972 by becoming the first woman appointed to GraceKennedy’s board of directors. This groundbreaking appointment established new precedents for gender diversity in Jamaican business leadership and created pathways for subsequent generations of female executives.
Beyond her corporate legacy, Tenn made substantial contributions to Jamaica’s agricultural development initiatives and emerged as an inspirational figure for women pursuing leadership roles. Her career exemplified resilience, innovative vision, and an uncompromising commitment to excellence that transcended conventional expectations of her era.
The GraceKennedy organization has extended heartfelt condolences to Tenn’s family, friends, and the countless individuals influenced by her extraordinary journey. The company emphasized that Tenn’s enduring impact on both corporate governance and broader Jamaican society will be perpetually honored with profound respect and appreciation.