1. Why has the AJC created a CEO role?

The role of Interim CEO has been created to provide much-needed capacity to support the implementation of our new strategy and better serve our members. As the needs of the sector grow, the AJC must scale up its ability to coordinate, represent, and support charities in Jersey. This new role will help us do that, while maintaining our lean, volunteer-led foundation.

2. Why now?

The timing reflects both strategic and practical needs. We have launched a new strategy with ambitious goals for sector development, support, and representation. At the same time, there is increased pressure on charities and their leadership – we know this from listening to our members and from our own research. Investing in a CEO is a proactive step to increase our ability to respond, support, and lead during this critical time.

3. Who is taking on the role of Interim CEO?

Marcus Liddiard, who has stepped down from his position as Chairperson, has been appointed to the part-time Interim CEO role. He brings deep commercial and operational experience, knowledge of AJC’s operations and strategy, and a clear vision for how to strengthen support for our members.

4. Was there an open and fair process for this appointment?

Yes. The appointment was carefully considered by the AJC Committee. Marcus was fully excluded from this process to ensure strong governance, and advice was sought from the Jersey Charity Commissioner’s office. The decision was made in line with best practice for transparency and integrity.

5. How is the role being funded?

The role is being funded by a private donor who is committed to supporting the development of the charitable sector in Jersey. Funding is secured for an initial three-year period. The AJC is actively exploring further funding to increase the time commitment for the role and extend its duration.

6. Is this a full-time position?

No, the role is part-time, reflecting both the funding available and the AJC’s ongoing commitment to operational lean-ness. It is designed to enhance current capacity rather than replace or duplicate existing work.

7. How does this affect the AJC’s current structure?

The CEO role adds capacity, not replaces it. The AJC remains a largely volunteer-led organisation with a strong committee and member involvement. The Interim CEO will support and coordinate, not take over, the AJC’s work. The structure will remain collaborative, with regular engagement between the CEO, the Committee, and our members.

8. Who is replacing Marcus as Chairperson?

Robert Surcouf, the current Deputy Chairperson, has been nominated for the position of Chairperson. Robert brings significant experience, continuity, and commitment to the AJC’s mission, ensuring a smooth leadership transition.

9. What will the CEO do that’s different from the Committee?

The CEO will:

• Focus on delivering the new strategy
• Strengthen member engagement
• Build partnerships and represent the sector externally
• Seek funding and sustainability opportunities
• Provide operational support for AJC programmes and initiatives

The Committee will continue to provide strategic oversight, governance, and sector leadership alongside the CEO.

10. Will members be consulted or involved going forward?

Yes. Member engagement remains a core pillar of how the AJC operates. We welcome feedback, dialogue, and partnership as we implement this new role and deliver the strategy. Members will be kept informed through regular updates, and opportunities for input will be built into our work moving forward.

11. What happens after the initial three years of funding?

The AJC is committed to securing long-term funding for this role. Efforts to identify additional donors and funding partners are already underway. The intention is to build a sustainable structure that continues to deliver value beyond the initial three-year period.

12. How can I ask further questions or share feedback?

We welcome your thoughts and questions. Please contact us at speak to any member of the AJC Committee. You can also reach out to Marcus directly once he has formally begun in the role.

13. The AJC has had a CEO previously. How is this different?

While the AJC has previously had a CEO, the current approach reflects a refined and more clearly defined role, shaped by the evolving needs of the sector and the organisation. It’s about ensuring the role is fit for purpose in today’s context and delivers maximum value to our membership.

14. The role is an ‘Interim’ role – what does that mean in practice? Are there efforts to recruit a permanent CEO?

In practice, this role is part time and limited in duration to reflect the funding available. We are grateful that Marcus will take this role to start to improve our resource availability and impact with minimum delay. It is expected that a permanent CEO will be recruited but this will only happen once finances allow.