Guernsey leaders focus on turning AI into business advantage

Guernsey business leaders shared how they are harnessing artificial intelligence (AI) to create competitive advantage, improve productivity and help island organisations scale at an Institute of Directors (IoD) Guernsey panel event hosted by Skipton International at its St Peter Port headquarters.

The Building competitive advantage in an age of AI session explored how AI delivers practical benefits, influences business models and working practices, and helps organisations balance short-term productivity gains with longer-term investment in people and skills. The discussion was wide ranging, including topics such as the importance of data integrity, the possibility of AI costs rising steeply in future and the role of the human workforce to add oversight and critical thinking alongside AI assistants.

It was the first event in IoD Guernsey’s three-part Better Directors in an Age of AI series and formed part of the Guernsey AI Sprint, a six-week programme of AI-focused events across the island.

The panels was moderated by Glen Tonks, Chair of IoD Guernsey, and featured Rob Newton, CEO of Gravity; Andy Mills, COO of Vega Technologies; and Kim Sgarlata, Group CEO and Executive Director of Opera.

Charlotte Dunsterville, Chief Commercial Officer at Skipton International, said:

“AI is changing how organisations operate and serve their customers, and business leaders need to consider carefully where it can add genuine value and how it should be used responsibly.

“As a Guernsey-based bank serving customers locally and internationally, we felt it was important to support this conversation and give local leaders an opportunity to share practical experiences and consider what AI could mean for their organisations.”

The Guernsey AI Sprint runs from 1 October to 12 November 2026 and brings together businesses, organisations, and individuals to build their understanding of artificial intelligence.

Glen Tonks, Chair of IoD Guernsey, said:

“AI is no longer a subject that can sit solely with technology teams. Boards need to understand the opportunities, risks, and practical implications so they can ask the right questions and make informed decisions.

“This first session brought together experienced business leaders to discuss what is working, where the challenges lie, and how organisations can approach AI in a way that supports their wider strategy. It was a strong start to the island’s AI Sprint.”

To view the full Guernsey AI Sprint programme, visit: https://www.ai-sprint.gg