ST JAMES, Jamaica — In a unanimous confirmation of confidence in his leadership, local businessman Jason Russell will serve an additional one-year term as president of the Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce. The announcement came following Wednesday evening’s annual general meeting, hosted at the University of the West Indies’ Western Jamaica Campus, where Russell secured re-election without any opposing candidates.
Russell first stepped into the presidential role 12 months ago, taking over from former leader Oral Heaven, who opted not to pursue another term in office. Since assuming his position, Russell has earned widespread praise across the local business community for his approachable, grounded leadership style — particularly for his steady guidance through the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, when the chamber played a critical role in supporting affected local enterprises.
Joining Russell on the executive leadership team for the coming term will be three re-elected vice presidents, all of whom also ran unopposed: Paulette Neil will remain in the post of first vice president, Nadine Spence retains her role as second vice president, and Richard Burrowes continues as third vice president.
The full executive body will be backed by a 14-member board of directors. Eight of these board members are returning to their positions to provide institutional continuity, while the remaining six slots will be filled by first-time directors bringing new perspectives to the chamber’s work supporting Montego Bay’s business ecosystem.