Senator Philip Ozouf
Highstead, Rue Du Tapon, St Saviour, Jersey, JE2 7UZ
www.ozouf.je/philip@ozouf.jeAbout
About Me -
I’ve been called various things in my time as a politician, “hard-working†being my preferred and a few others I’d rather forget! As far as my politics is concerned I’m centre-right economically but I’m most comfortable being described as liberal in outlook. I have always been fascinated with how government can improve lives and that’s what I feel passionately about.
I have a vision of a Jersey that is fair, successful and confident: a place where everyone can pursue their dreams and improve their own lives and those around them. I believe the state should provide the quality services that a modern society expects such as health care and education but it should do so as effectively and efficiently as possible. A similar vision is probably shared by most States Members. We just differ sometimes on how to get there. My approach is based on extensive research, expert opinion and listening to people. I try to be pragmatic. This doesn’t always make me popular, but it does allow me to be comfortable with all decisions I make.
I was brought up in a traditional farming family, hearing Jèrriais and son of a former Connétable. I went to school in Jersey at Victoria College and then studied at the European Business School in London, Frankfurt and Paris. Perhaps because of my background and foreign study, I have always enjoyed learning and speaking languages. Languages offer a window on another world and show interest and respect to other cultures. I enjoy travel and aim to visit a new country every year and take short trips to interesting places. To truly appreciate how lucky we are in Jersey it is important to see other countries and understand their perspective and challenges.
In my spare time, I spend time with friends, looking after my godchildren and reading about politics and economics – when you enjoy something it’s hard to switch off! I keep fit by going to the gym at Fort Regent most weekday mornings. I have diverse music interests. My partner is a chemistry teacher and a well-known music critic and we go to lots of concerts together. I had an Apple Mac SE30 since university and have always been an early adopter of new technology. I also enjoy film, theatre, music, wine, food and the usual things that make life nice.
Political History
Elected as Deputy for St Helier District 3 & 4 in November 1999, topping the poll, then as Senator in 2002, again topping the poll, re-elected as Senator in 2008
Economic Development Minister from 2005 – 2008
• Treasury & Resources Minister from 2008 – Present
Assistant Chief Minister from 2013 – Present
• Vice Chairman of the States of Jersey Employment Board
Member of the Jersey branch of the Assemblée Parlementaire de la Francophonie and Vice Chairman of the Alliance Jersey branch
Former member of Jersey Legal Information Board and Jersey Relations Trust
Key Achievements
Balanced budgets through a period of unprecedented global economic turmoil
Increased the value of our long-term strategic reserve by over 50% through this period
Delivered £60 million in recurring annual efficiency savings
Rebuilt our reputation with international finance ministers in the UK and around the world
Led the investment in our digital future
• Achieved international endorsement through a AA+ credit rating
Delivered funding for social and affordable housing
• Fast-tracked funding for urgently needed social projects, including new mental health facilities
Supported successful job creation programmes thereby lowering unemploymentCategories: Politics.
