The first testimonials shown here were written for the 2008 elections but all original authors have said they are still relevant and can stay. Below those are recommendations from the Linkedin networking website.
Phil Balderson, Chair of Emerging Industries, Jersey Chamber of Commerce
I’ve known Rod for over 11 years, and during that time he has demonstrated an unstinting passion for the Island and people of Jersey.
He is both philanthropic and visionary, and his unique blend of humour and insight has touched the lives of many people on the Island.
I’m delighted he’s standing for the States, because his integrity and straightforward approach must, by necessity, make a difference.
Karen Mars, Business Development Manager – Thomas and Dessain.
I met Rod Bryans through the 7.46 Breakfast Club in January 2007. What first struck me about Rod was the way that he interacted with the Breakfast Club members from the podium – he is a great public speaker.
He always holds the audience’s attention, has some point to make or some philosophy to share, and breaks the atmosphere of large groups of people bringing them together.
Rod is a very charismatic person with lots of innovative ideas and solutions that he offers to a lot of people that look to him for support and guidance.
He has helped me to see the value in myself and you couldn’t get a better person to be involved in politics. He has a very democratic and fair approach to matters and is well liked by many people.
As my job takes me to meet many different business people, it is not unusual for the conversation to get round to Rod as he is so well known and liked in the business community.
Clive Spears
I am delighted Rod has decided to stand in the forthcoming States Deputies elections. There is little doubt that after the excessive expenditure in government over the past few years some new faces are required that are able to recognise and manage the resulting problems that will in all likelihood unfold as the ripples of recession spread to Jersey.
Part of any solution will include the far stricter control of the use of public resources and some tough prioritisation programmes for which we need people of Rod’s resolve and ability to see through.
We saw a glimmer of the hunger for change in the Senatorial’s with the only newcomer being the poll winner by a long stretch. Equally the election saw the downfall of a senior spending minister.
So if you want more balance , and better management of public finances vote for Rod because he has the experience, ability and determination.
Nigel & Lisa Mann, Physiotherapists.
We have known Rod for a year, having first met him through the 7.47 Breakfast club. Since then he has taken an active interest in us and our fledgling business.
He has nurtured us, inspired us, given useful tips, pointers and contacts! This he has done voluntarily, without asking and without recompense.
We find Rod inspirational, thought provoking and challenging. Rod is a visionary who listens to you and always strives to improve on and develop your ideas in a constructive manner.
Rod understands the bigger picture that is Jersey from finance to education to networking. He is sincere, passionate, charismatic and enthusiastic about everything he turns his hand to.
We think that he is well suited to representing his local community and the Island as a whole. Rod will offer a fresh and innovative approach to government and we wish him all the very best. If we were in his parish, Rod would have our vote!
Ray Shead
It is important that business is represented in the States especially in these uncertain economic times.
I have great pleasure in endorsing Rod Bryans candidature for St Helier No 2 District. His business experience will be invaluable.
Maddie Doran, Co-owner of The Room.
I’ve known Rod for 5 years through the 7.45 club and have over the years turned to him for advice and encouragement. With Rod’s help and support I went on to win the first ever member of the year.
Rod is very much a MAN OF THE PEOPLE be it from finance or to us humble hairdressers. He is always there with clear thinking and a logical approach to a problem.
I was delighted to hear he was running in these elections and feel that he is what Jersey needs in these times of uncertainty. He is honest, hardworking and always has Jersey and its people’s best interest at heart.
Paul MacDonald, Managing Director-Hepburns Group of Companies
I have known Rod Bryans since 1994 when Rod joined Hepburns as a Financial Adviser. Rod quickly demonstrated his skills as a Leader and has helped to build and drive Hepburns Life & Pensions to its best performance in 37 years of trading.
What impresses me most is his unfailing enthusiasm and innate sense of fairness. I believe Rod has the intellect to grasp any issue and translate this into a digestible language that we can all understand. This is an important skill for a Politician.
Rod is a grounded individual, true to his roots and passionate in his beliefs. I know that Rod will commit himself completely if elected and he has the ability to be an excellent ambassador for his potential St Helier constituents and the Island. I have no hesitation in recommending Rod Bryans.
During the 18 years I have known Rod he has been unwavering in his support not only of myself but also many other creative people in the island. He is passionate about helping others and allowing them to achieve their full potential.
It comes as no surprise to learn that so many people are delighted Rod is standing for the States because he has all of the qualities required to make a major difference. He is able to tell it as it is whilst being capable of relating to a vast range of people and also being an incredibly well liked and respected member of the community at large.
Rods involvement with the breakfast club has allowed me to see at first hand how professional and adept he really is in dealing with people and getting things done.
Kevin Keen
We will all be lucky to have Rod representing us. He is creative, hard working, action orientated and he really cares. In addition he brings the vital skills of real world financial planning something the States really needs now and will need more of in the future.
Rod has enjoyed a successful career in education and then moved into business and made a great success of that. Now is the time for him to bring those skills and experience to governing Jersey. Please vote for Rod.
David Warr, Owner of Coopers & Co.
I first met Rod when he set up the 7.45 Breakfast Club for businesses. He highlighted a gap that exists in the market for a meeting place for business people outside of the usual Institutions.
This I believe is a huge strength of Rod’s always to challenge the status quo and not to accept the “we’ve always done it this way” approach. In increasingly uncertain times I believe that Jersey needs people like Rod to initiate a new kind of thinking. A focus on what we can do for ourselves rather than continually looking for “outside” expertise.
If elected I believe that Rod will bring a refreshing approach to Government, one that is more considerate of local resources and the need to build from the bottom up.
Allana Finn, Prince’s Trust Entrepreneur.
I met Rod though the Princes Trust in March 08, he took me under his wing, offering me his time, support, experiences and advice. Thanks to Rod my business has flourished and a number of doors have been opened. Rod is a very kind and caring man who always has time to share his knowledge and thoughts. .
I feel Rod would make a fantastic deputy, wanting to improve Island life for all. He brings people together with his infectious energy and I know he will make big difference. Focused, hard working, passionate and a great listener.
I am so pleased Rod has applied for this position and in my opinion he is the right person for the job.
John Sharkey, Psychiatrist
I first met Rod Bryans about 8 years ago. He is a genuinely decent man with a sincere desire to improve the world around him.
He is ready to make far-seeing decisions in an open and enthusiastic manner. The endpoint is more important to him than whether he owns the idea which would be an unusual attribute for a politician.
His style will be constructive and he will be a real asset to the government of Jersey. Given the need for solutions and genuinely fresh thinking I could not think of a better candidate for election.
Linkedin recommendations.
“Rod is a stand-up, make-it-happen type of player who has helped change the face of Slow Food in the UK. He really ‘gets’ the NGO/social enterprise landscape and has helped me lead Slow Food UK into growth and success with our leaders championing our education work to get folks getting better, healthier food.” August 10, 2011
Catherine Gazzoli, CEO, Slow Food UK
“Rod is an engaging communicator with a deep well of enthusiasm and creativity. He takes pains to explore your requirements and provide innovative, workable solutions. He generously shares his considerable knowledge and expertise to achieve the very best results for his business partners. Very definitely an ‘ideas’ man!” April 13, 2011
Top qualities: Personable, Expert, Creative
“Rod is one of life’s true gems both professionally and personally. His vision, knowledge, creativity and energy provide a valuable catalyst to many. In fact his value to anything he decides to back is enormous and I often wonder how he finds the time and energy. Rod truly is an inspiration and I not only enjoying working with him, I actively seek opportunities and reasons to work with him. Rod is one of those people you wish you had met years ago.” April 7, 2011
Top qualities: Great Results, High Integrity, Creative
“I have known Rod for at least 20 years as a client and friend. He consistently delivers on creativity, tenacity and sincerity in equal measure. Rod also cares passionately about our community which I admire greatly.
Rod is any easy person to recommend which sadly is pretty rare these days.” March 31, 2011
Top qualities: Great Results, Personable, Creative
Kevin Keen,
hired Rod as a Financial Advisor in 2007, and hired Rod more than once.
“Rod is a visionary; constantly seeking new tools and techniques to understand and learn the lessons that life throws at us. He is a holder of the mirror both professionally and personally. Rod also has THE network to provide the answer to almost any question.” March 31, 2011
Mark Kevlin, Business Support Manager, States of Jersey
“What can I say – Rod is simply inspirational!” March 18, 2011
Debbie Boon, Consultant – Business Development and Training, Deborah Boon Consulting
“Rod is very personable and gets to know his clients well so he can explore the best solutions for them. He is a creative thinker and never seems to stand intellectually.” February 14, 2011
Top qualities: Personable, Expert, Creative
“Rod is reliable and a positive “can do” individual.” January 23, 2011
Top qualities: Personable, Expert, High Integrity
“I know Rod from Allied Dunbar, and Hepburns I noticed the referral option on Linked-In and wanted to say that I know Rod to be knowledgeable and professional with energy and a great sense of humour.
He’s also multi-talented (a good photographer and mentor, he really makes me *think*) I would recommend him to anyone who needs a creative thinker or a professional mentor.
Naturally I put my money where my mouth is, and Rod also looks after my insurance needs.
I would happy recommend or be a reference for Rod”” January 20, 2011
Top qualities: Great Results, Personable, Expert
“Rod is one of those rare people you meet in life that actually makes an impact on you. Not just an impression, or a passing phase of usefulness, but a true impact. He is a change agent/catalyst and has been a tremendous inspiration to me. What started as a business relationship, moved to a valued mentor and friendship where Rod continues to challenge me to dig deeper and think about things from a different angle. To say he’s creative, motivational and positive is an understatement. He breaks the mould and encourages you to do the same. Rod is like a really great movie, enjoyable at the time, but the impact lingers on long afterwards.” November 4, 2010
Dawn Evans, Assistant Manager, Credit Department, Jersey , Channel Islands, Standard Chartered Bank
“Rod would act as a valuable asset to any company. He is a pro-active chap with a thirst for productivity.” September 28, 2010
Ben Hickingbotham, Creative Director, The Observatory
“I have worked with Rod since early 2009, in his capacity as financial advisor for Grand Jersey Hotel and also as a client and supporter of the Hotel. In all this time I have found Rod to be an extremely hard working and diligent person who makes it his responsibility to understand you and your business. This enabled him to deliver the right business service for the Hotel and also offered him opportunity to recommend business to the Hotel which was appropriate to our goals.
I would have absolutely no hesitation in recommending Rob and will continue to work with him both at the Hotel and personally.” June 15, 2010
Top qualities: Personable, Expert, Creative
“I have known Rod for many years and worked with him in a variety of roles including Financial Advisor; Coach; Business Consultant; and Breakfast Club Founder – in all roles he applies a unique creative insight not seen in many. A fellow Northerner, he is not afraid to tell it ‘how it is’ and yet does so in a hugely personable manner. Always a pleasure to meet with Rod and he always gives you something useful to take away to reflect upon. If you can take it, I would strongly recommend letting him give you his viewpoint!” February 3, 2010
Top qualities: Personable, High Integrity, Creative
“Rod has a wealth of experience in all fields of business, and is very talented at helping to understand and apply the lessons to one’s own area of business.
I highly recommend Rod.” February 2, 2010
Top qualities: Personable, Expert, Creative
“Rod is the person to go to when you cannot see the wood for the trees. Together, we worked through some issues over branding and communicating the brand. Rod will throw new ideas and new ways of approaching problems at you. All of which make you stop and think, coming away from a meeting with Rod you are alive with ideas.” January 15, 2010
Helen Gray, Head of Marketing Communications and Fundraising, Jersey Heritage
“A switched on, enthusiastic, knowledgeable character who gets on with the job!” January 13, 2010
Victoria Blackshaw, Team & Communications Coordinator, Slow Food UK
“Rod is a financial services executive who takes high standards of professional education, skills development and a wider contribution to society very seriously. He has been involved as President of the Personal Finance Society and as Education Officer in Jersey with expert working groups and has impressed me as as a knowledgeable and experienced individual who has integrity and a strong creative drive. He thinks ‘outside of the box’ in coming up with creative solutions to challenging issues.” January 9, 2010
Geoff Cook, CEO, Jersey Finance
“Rod has a creative mind and adopts a positive, pro-active approach to everything that he does. I very much appreciate the support and input that he has provided in the past and strongly recommend him to others” January 8, 2010
Andrew Sugden, Deputy Chief Executive, States of Jersey, Economic Development
was with another company when working with Rod at Hepburns
“Rod has been a friend and business colleague for many years, respectable and trustworthy, a gifted speaker, observant, organised, loyal and incredibly helpful as a friend and associate.” January 7, 2010
Sharon Campbell, Presenter / Production / Business Development, Channel Television
“Rod has been a good mentor and staunch supporter of my company. We will be calling on Rod’s clear thinking and experience again. He is a pleasure to be in the company of.” January 7, 2010
Top qualities: Expert, Good Value, Creative
Top qualities: Personable, Expert, High Integrity January 6, 2010
“Rod is one of the most inspirational people I have ever had the pleasure to meet.” November 3, 2009
James Pledger, Senior Manager, HLB Jackson Fox Limited
“Rod is free thinker with a firm grasp of reality, two concepts that rarely seem to run together. In addition he is there at the start of a project and through to the end which seems even less common. In summary – a Rational Creative if you will forgive my bastardisation of a cringe-worthy marketing term.” October 20, 2009
Christopher Journeaux, Head of Marketing & Sales, Jersey Dairy
“Rod taught me The de Bono Hats system (also known as “Six Hats” or “Six Thinking Hats”) is a thinking tool for group discussion and individual thinking. I have used this method in team meetings and it has kept everyone focussed and cut down the time spent digressing away from the subject matter. Rod has also acted as a personal mentor for me to achieve in a professional capacity, I have consistently met goals and targets assisted by Rod’s guidance, influence and motivation techniques. Rod also is a great presenter and motivational speaker having presented his approach to “being audacious” which pushed me to do something different. He is extremely creative coming up with successful initiatives like “think twice buy local” and other ideas and projects that support Jersey and the local people. I wish I could tap into Rod’s brain on a daily basis.” October 5, 2009
Top qualities: Great Results, Personable, Creative
“Rod’s enthusiasm is infectious. He is always willing to help local businesses and is passionate about the community. A founder member of the successful 745 networking club is just one of the many strings to Rod’s bow! I have huge amount of time for Rod as does he for anyone needing a bit of help to solve a problem or come up with a creative approach. Rod Rocks!” October 5, 2009
Leanda Jane Guy, Owner, My Favourite Jersey
“Rod has undertaken a number of insurance services for me over many years and I have always found his work excellent and have developed a long friendship with him.” August 18, 2009
Top qualities: Personable, Good Value, High Integrity
“Rod is a positive facilitator who’s boundless energy, creativity and drive makes the people around him think. He has actively mentored many members of the local business community in creativity, innovation and networking.
He’s easy to talk to, approachable with an understanding of most things making him a perfect sounding board and sanity check for innovators. I’ve know Rod for 5 years and he’s always reading, challenging himself intellectually and thinking about that he can put back into the community.” August 4, 2009
Christos Valerkou, Director, Cronus Consultancy Limited
“Rod is a a very creative person who will strive to satisfy the needs of all his clients no matter how complicated the circumstances. He always delivers a high class product at a reasonable cost. Very highly recommended, we use him for our employee pension schemes, sipps, now rats and all our critical illness and life assurance cover.” August 4, 2009
Top qualities: Personable, Expert, Creative
Louise Bracken-Smith, Partner HLB Jackson Fox
“Rod Bryans is an upbeat, creative thinker with an entrepreneurial streak. He takes a pragmatic approach to his investment and insurance business, providing his clients with solid, down-to-earth advice on appropriate solutions to their needs. Outside of business, Rod has a diverse range of interests, with an extensive knowledge of films, books, comedy and music. Rod maintains a healthy interest in education and politics. He’s a people person.” August 4, 2009
Geoffrey Tait, Sales Director, Fideliy Investments
“I use Rod for a range of my personal financial needs ranging across pensions, life cover and travel insurance. His firm have a good straight forward value for money approach with a high level of transparency and promptness, but nicely blended with the personal touch missing in so many larger organisations now. in short one is a valued client and it is appreciated.” August 4, 2009
Top qualities: Personable, Expert, High Integrity
“I know Rod to be passionate about a number of worthy causes, and driven to ensure success in all of them by involving the right combination of people and resources. A skilled presenter and orator, Rod has shown tremendous enthusiasm and vision in establishing and overseeing the hugely successful 7:46 Breakfast Club, amongst many other ventures, since I first met him around 5 years ago. I know Rod to be highly regarded by his business clients for the quality of his financial planning advice, and by local politicians and business leaders for his intellect, knowledge and varied experience. Personally, I see Rod as a great mentor, sounding-board, advisor and dependable friend, as well as a business associate I hope to work more closely with in the future.” August 4, 2009
Paul Raphael, Director, UBS Wealth Management
was with another company when working with Rod at Hepburns
“Rod is an inspiration to anyone who wants to improve the way they work, play, plan, think, network. An endless source of ideas, he’s helped me challenge myself to be better in my business and personal lives. His work with the 745 Breakfast Club is the stuff of local legend!” August 4, 2009
Matthew Robins, Managing Director, Webreality
“I enjoy working with Rod and find his approach to business development and networking friendly, creative and dynamic. He is always keen to help out and a great person to have on your side.” May 1, 2009
Cedric Bird, Business Advisor, Jersey Enterprise
“Rod is energetic, passionate and highly creative. He actively manages a varied portfolio of work and gives freely of his time to voluntary projects as well as commercial work.
On a recent project I was very impressed with Rod’s creative thinking and coaching skills and would recommend him as a skilled facilitator, a source of creative ideas and and an experienced sounding board for project teams.” April 16, 2009
David Vieira, Director, Direct Input
Manager Allied Dunbar
“Rod is a fantastically creative and motivational person. He is also very supportive and loyal with a good sense of humour. I love his enthusiasm and energy.” June 7, 2011
Heather Daly, Sales Training Director, Zurich Life