Meet Jess, in a nutshell
As of 3 March, Jessica Utichi, previously Head of Operations, stepped into the role of Head of the GDC.
Jessica has been integral to the running and strategic leadership of the GDC since its inception in 2018, working tirelessly – often behind the scenes – and we are thrilled to move forwards with her at the helm!
As a Chartered Accountant, Jess started her career at KPMG and has since held a range of financial audit, internal audit, and commercial finance roles within the commercial and not for profit sectors. She is passionate about social entrepreneurship and is a Board Member of Impact Hub London, working to accelerate entrepreneurial action that benefits people and planet. Jess speaks French, loves to swim and read, and lives just outside London with her husband and young son.
A Q&A with Jess
What excites you most about taking on this new role?
After seven years managing programmes and operations at the GDC, I care deeply about our members (and I’d like to think I know the GDC inside and out!). I also know that the success of the GDC is not down to any one individual – collective action requires collective responsibility. Alongside the fantastic GDC team, I look forward to bringing in additional expertise and perspectives from our stellar Advisory Council, and strengthening our wider network of LMD experts and enthusiasts, to delivering the most impact possible for GDC members.
What is your message to GDC members?
Amplifying the voices, needs, and priorities of you, our members from across the globe, is a real honour. I am so excited to work more closely with you to ensure that everything the GDC does is ultimately in the service of your work and helps you to reach your goals. If you are a GDC member and want to get something on the agenda, get in touch!
What is on the horizon for the GDC?
GDC members will continue to sit at the heart of everything we do. The next few months are jam-packed with opportunities to get involved in, including our GDC member event in Nigeria and the first ever GDC awards. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the next instalment of our flagship Last Mile Distribution: State of the Sector report which is also coming soon!
If you have any questions about the GDC governance or upcoming activities, don’t hesitate to reach out to Jess or another member of the GDC team directly.