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Double success for JT’s enterprise and business services team

JT has been recognised by one of the world’s leading technology companies for the innovative way in which they delivered business to their customers in 2020.

The Tech Data Aces Momentum Awards are given to companies that show a desire to use and grow the technology developed by Cisco. Run by technology giant Tech Data, the programme is designed to help Cisco partners take their business forward as they support their customers’ requirements,  applying sophisticated Cisco Technology to a constantly changing business landscape.

JT, a Cisco Premier partner, was recognised as the ‘Enterprise Networking Partner of the Year’ and achieved the highest accolade of ‘Overall Partner of the Year’, based on partner engagement, strategy for growth and customer adoption in a year that required ingenuity and innovation.

In each category, four out of the 25 top partners in the ACES programme were shortlisted by the technology giant Tech Data, with JT selected as the overall winner.

Katie Corbett, Director of CI Enterprise and Business Services at JT Group, said: “This is a huge achievement by our very dedicated team who have developed and grown this side of the business for JT. We have enjoyed working closely with Tech Data and Cisco, especially in a year where the technologies they produce have been so vital to keeping our communities and economies going. We were really focused on delivering these services and technologies to our customers and the results have been far greater than we had anticipated.”

Graeme Lee, Business Development Manager for Cisco at Tech Data, said: “(JT) have driven change for their customers by encouraging the adoption of leading-edge technologies and looking for new ways to apply and adapt the very latest solutions to positive effect. This hugely impressive performance, alongside their focused approach made JT the exceptional candidate and the deserved winner of the Tech Data ACES Partner of the Year award.”

About Tech Data

Tech Data Corporation is one of the world’s largest distributors of technology products, services and solutions.

For more than 40 years, Tech Data has provided the logistics capabilities and value-added services that enable resellers to efficiently and cost-effectively support the diverse technology needs of end users in more than 100 countries.

Tech Data connects the world with the power of technology. With an end-to-end portfolio of products, services and solutions, highly specialised skills, and expertise in next-generation technologies enables Tech Data partners bring to market the products and solutions the world needs to connect, grow and advance.

Angus Flett - JT
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Former BT Executive added to the JT Board

A former BT executive who helped the organisation achieve a world number one ranking for customer services has been appointed as a Non-Executive Director of JT.

Angus Flett is the CEO of Smart Data Communications Company, he has an extensive background in telecoms, including roles in product management, marketing and service operations. He held a senior role at Vodaphone, where he was Senior Vice President for Global Enterprise Products.

While at BT, Angus was the Managing Director of Customer Service and Customer Relationship Management, where he was instrumental in BT’s world number one ranking for agent technical expertise and number two for agent responsiveness. He was also responsible for BT’s Internet Service Provider division which was the fifth largest white-label ISP in the UK, providing services to EE, Vodaphone, Post Office and SSE.

Angus Flett said: “JT’s reputation among much larger businesses in the UK and overseas is already excellent and that reputation is growing rapidly. It is a forward-looking company that is doing remarkable things in the Channel Islands and around the world. That’s why I wanted to join the JT Board, and I’m delighted to be working with such a creative, ambitious and diverse company. What impresses me more though is how well embedded JT is in its community. This was demonstrated this year when it won Silver at the UK Customer Experience Awards, beating BT in its category, I might add. Listening to customers and acting on their feedback to develop products and services shows JT is a company that is moving forward and taking its core customers with them.”

JT Chairman, Phil Male, said: “We are really fortunate that we are able to attract people with such a broad level of experience in senior management as Angus. His leadership at some of the world’s most well know telecoms companies will be a huge asset to the JT Board and will no doubt help with our long-term vision for growth and sustainability both in the Channel Islands and internationally. The business world is facing uncertainty at the moment, but this appointment will further strengthen the ability of the Board to oversee JT’s operations and services.”

Graeme Millar, CEO JT Group, said: “We’re delighted to welcome someone of Angus’s calibre to JT. His expertise and experience will greatly bolster JT’s long-term plans and strategies. It is also hugely beneficial that he comes from a background of customer service and customer relationship management, an area that is very important to us and our people as we continue to provide and receive positive customer experience feedback, which is crucial to the success of our business.”

JT engineers with old phones
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Charity receives old school phone system thanks to JT Engineers

The phone system that for years dealt with calls at the old Les Quennevais School has been given a new lease of life after being donated to a local charity.

The Beresford Street Kitchen needed to upgrade its phone system to one that was able to handle multiple calls but had been putting it off due to cost until two regular customers made a welcome suggestion.

JT engineers Peter Vasse and Vinnie Harkin, who often take their lunchbreaks at the popular café in town, were asked to look at the aging phone system. Knowing there was one at the old Les Quennevais School that was no longer needed, they asked the school whether it could be given to the charity to cover its needs instead.

Alexander Richardson, Business and Facilities Manager of Les Quennevais School, said: “Peter knew the old system backwards. He had helped install it and worked with us at the school to keep it working properly. We like to maintain continuity in our relationships with outside companies and when Peter and Vinnie moved with us to the new school and started installing the new system, Peter had the lightbulb moment. We are really pleased we were able to help out and we had no idea that it could be put to such good use. The old phone system was perfect for what the charity needed, and we were happy to support his great idea to donate it to Beresford Street Kitchen and further strengthens the school’s links with JT who we were able to collaborate with to help this charity.”

Gabby Ellmers, Managing Director of Beresford Street Kitchen, commented: “We have always enjoyed having Peter and Vinnie as customers and it was so typical of them to come up with a way of helping us out. As we’ve grown over the last 3 years, our phone system simply couldn’t cope with what we needed it to do. It meant sometimes missing calls, crew members not being able to get through and a lot of running around the building to get messages to areas with no phone lines.  We are extremely grateful for the generous donation from Les Quennevais School and to Peter and Vinnie for the many hours they put in at night installing the system. Now with the help of the school and JT, we are always able to answer those important calls from our crew, partners and customers and it will help support our future growth to enable us to provide training and employment for more people with learning disabilities and autism.”

Tom Noel, JT’s Director of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability, added: “At the beginning of this year we set up a Sustainability Team to pool ideas from across the company to help achieve our aim of becoming a carbon neutral business and a contributor to a carbon neutral island by 2030. We welcome and encourage all ideas and opportunities to recycle, reuse and reduce and when Peter and Vinnie suggested this, it really was a no brainer. We’re already making great strides in reducing waste, and this idea is at the heart of what we as a company are trying to do to minimise our impact on the planet. We’re really proud that our people feel empowered to help others and can be part of change for the better. Peter and Vinnie fitted the system in their own time, wanting to get the charity’s new system running as soon as possible. Not only is this a great example of a circular economy, it’s also a really great example of how we can all work together to achieve something good within our local community.”

JT electric car
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JT vehicles to go all electric within next few years

JT has become the latest large company to begin replacing its vehicle fleet with zero emission alternatives. Ten years ago, it was hard to imagine being able to drive more than a few miles in an electric vehicle, on a single charge – today it is very different and with an ever-growing network of charging facilities, more and more Channel Islands businesses are making the transition from fossil-fuel to low carbon electric transport.

JT have begun their transition by purchasing ten Nissan electric vehicles, starting by replacing the oldest of JT’s fleet of Suzuki vans, supporting their goal of achieving Carbon Neutrality by 2030.

Tom Noel, Director of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability, said: “JT has one of the largest commercial fleets in Jersey, with almost 100 cars used daily by our engineers. Our aim is to not only replace all petrol and diesel vehicles but to reduce the number of vehicles on our roads, supporting that with charging points in key locations. As a business that has placed sustainability at the heart of everything we do, we’ve made initiatives like this a key priority of our Sustainability Strategy over the next decade.”

The EV’s may be new to JT but all have been bought at auctions having previously been used by councils in Scotland in keeping with JT’s policy to reuse, reduce and recycle wherever possible.

JT’s people are key participants and drivers of JT’s sustainability programme with many of their ideas now being adopted companywide, including going 100% paperless for note taking by using Rocketbook Fusion notebooks, re-usable water bottles, a solar panelled building and an employee voucher scheme for e-bikes.

‘Moments of global crisis often lead to historical change and the recovery from the pandemic presents a huge opportunity for Governments, businesses and individuals to put action on climate at the heart of their efforts,” said Tom.

Daragh Mcdermott
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JT provides additional support during COVID pandemic

Following the announcement of the ‘circuit breaker’ over Christmas and New Year, JT is providing a series of measures to help its customers, many of whom will be working from home or self-isolating.

In addition to the 1GB broadband speeds, which have continued to be available island wide since March, customers can make free landline calls to local numbers while the restrictions announced on Wednesday remain in place. Customers who are not already on an unlimited home broadband contract will not be charged if they go over their monthly broadband usage limit during this time.

Daragh McDermott, Managing Director JT Channel Islands, said: “We wanted to act quickly to support those in greatest need at this time of year. We also wanted to support the Government’s plans to keep islanders safe which is why we’re making it free for our customers to stay in touch as we head towards Christmas. We’ve got one of the fastest networks in the world and we want to make sure that all of those who are now working from home will have the same access as they would if they were in the office. Whilst the vast majority of our customers are already on unlimited packages, for those who are not, no further charges will be applied in the event of them going over their allowances for usage while this period of uncertainty continues.”

During December, JT will be keeping a close eye on COVID-19 developments and will continue to work closely with the Government and the Regulator to support the community as the pandemic continues.

COVID19 Initiatives

Supporting our Islands through COVID-19 >

Reed Conservation Tom Noel
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JT support for National Trust conservation

A team of volunteers from JT have joined others reconnecting with their island’s natural beauty last week swapping their desks for a day of volunteering for the National Trust in Jersey.  The team helped maintain bird hides and reed beds in St Ouen.

Six members of JT’s new sustainability team supported the Trust with habitat restoration and enhancement of the bird hides and reeds at Les Mielles de Morville. It’s part of JT’s commitment to our local environment and community and our desire to help support the wellbeing of islanders.

Jon Parkes, Lands Manager for the National Trust for Jersey, said: “Like everyone, the Trust has had an unusual year with plenty of challenges, but we are lucky enough to work with lots of corporate partners and groups. This year has seen the countryside, including National Trust sites, busier than ever, as people rediscovered the island they knew and discovered parts they never knew existed. We are delighted that people are reconnecting with nature and really valuing what we have here in Jersey. Support for the Trust from local businesses like JT is really meaningful. Especially in difficult times like these, when we all need to work together for the benefit of our community and island.”

The National Trust is continuing with its busy programme of conservation and management work at its sites across the island.

Tom Noel, JT’s Director of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability said: “JT is actively pursuing our new strategy which puts our planet, our people and our community at the heart of everything we do. It’s not only about reducing carbon emissions, it’s also about how our people are embracing sustainability, coming up with their own ideas for green initiatives and supporting local organisations such as the National Trust. Seeing our volunteers so passionate on such a worthwhile project like this, demonstrates their genuine commitment to making a real difference. These projects are great for team building, exposing people to new experiences and really helping to keep our environment at the forefront of all our minds, helping to maintain and protect our island for future generations – plus, it’s something we really enjoyed.”

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JT host virtual breakfast with Santa

It’s been a year where many of us have had to adapt and it’s no different in the North Pole where Santa and his trusty team have embraced technology and come up with new ways to see and hear from children all over the world.

Sadly, Santa can’t make his usual stop at the JT shop this year, so he and his busy Elves have teamed up with JT to provide a live feed to Santa’s home on Facebook making sure children across the Channel Islands won’t miss out.

Mrs Claus, who manages Santa’s very tight schedule has come up with a great idea. To make sure no time is lost making presents, Santa and his elves will chat to children while they take a break for breakfast. It will be a chance for parents to gather their little ones between 9:30 and 10:30 on each of the Sunday’s – 6th, 13th and 20th – in December to speak to Santa who will be live from his home in the North Pole, sharing in the magic of Christmas together.

Tamara O’Brien, Group Head of Marketing, Brand and Customer Experience, said: “Meeting Santa is one of the most magical experiences children can have at Christmas. It’s an annual tradition that we had to help make happen and we were so pleased when together with Santa’s team we found a solution so that local children can see and speak to Santa virtually. Things may look a little different this year, but we are so pleased that we can help keep everyone connected this Christmas.”

Parents and children will be able to type their questions and present requests live on the Facebook stream and, with the help of one of his elves, Santa will respond.

There is no need to book. Simply register interest via Facebook Live events on the JTSocial page. Reminders and updates will be sent to those that register.

JT and Macmillan Jersey
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JT supports Macmillan Jersey in raising over £23,000

The 27th September marked the end of Macmillan Jersey’s ‘Get together for Good’ events week with JT. The week was all about encouraging people in our community to come together virtually or in person, whist adhering to government advice, to support the local charity. Throughout the week there were movie nights at The Savoy Hotel, a virtual corporate quiz, customer games in De Gruchy, various coffee mornings, a pre-loved and new clothes sale and a virtual yoga session amongst the events organised.

Islanders were encouraged to either attend an organised event or host their own. Macmillan Jersey have been blown away by how many islanders embraced the concept and really engaged with the week of activities to support them in their effort to raise much needed funds. To date, the fundraising total for the ‘Get together for Good’ week is over £23,000.

Steph Gibaut, Head of Fundraising at Macmillan Jersey said “We truly can’t thank everyone that took part in our ‘Get together for Good’ week enough. We are so humbled by the generosity and support of the people of Jersey. All our events have been cancelled this year so the money raised from this event is greatly appreciated and will allow our cancer support team to continue supporting local people affected by cancer. A huge thank you from everyone at Macmillan Jersey must go to JT and their people, without their support, expertise and commitment this week would not have been possible.’’

Tamara O Brien, Group Head of Customer Experience for JT, said: “Every year we ask our people to choose a charity for us to support and this year, driven by one of our own Macmillan Volunteers, we put our hearts and minds behind Macmillan Jersey. We all know someone who has been affected by cancer, and with each person’s experience there is a story. For many islanders Macmillan Jersey plays a huge part in their story, supporting them and their loved ones in good times and bad. Now was the time they needed our help as a community, and I’m so pleased that so many of us came together to raise so much money for such a worthy cause. It was our privilege to be part of a new and inspirational fundraising challenge that raised awareness, raised funds and importantly, raised a lot of smiles. ‘’

MacMillan Jersey helps people with all types of cancer and has provided over 3000 support sessions in the last 12 months alone.

To find how to donate visit www.macmillanjersey.com

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JT wins silver at national awards for putting customers first

JT has won Silver at the UK Customer Experience Awards, the biggest ‘CX’ event of its kind in the world. The win for JT’s Customer Experience and Marketing Team adds to the two major awards won in August and once again, JT was up against tough competition from household names such as BT who took Bronze in the Use of Insight and Feedback – Programme category.

The category recognises organisations whose initiative has driven cultural change and achieved extraordinary CX as a result.

The judges were impressed with the way the team at JT listens to and uses the feedback from customers to improve services, products and communication. JT started a programme five years ago to improve customers’ experience as it transformed the business from an on-island telecoms provider to a world-class communications brand, pioneering digital technology supported by a first-class customer experience.

Graeme Millar, JT’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “Winning Silver when up against big companies like BT is a huge testament to the talent and dedication of our teams. We put the customer at the heart of everything we do, and the comments and suggestions we receive, whether positive or critical, help us make sure we are delivering what they want. We are delighted and thrilled that the way we value the good relationship we have with our customers has been recognised in a national award, especially given the importance of telecoms this year.”

Tamara O’Brien, Group Head of Marketing, Brand and Customer Experience, said: “Our people know how important it is to have good face-to-face contact with our customers, and while that has been difficult this year, we have found ways of reaching out so that we know what their needs are and how we can help. We work hard to make sure we deliver a great service and a lot of that is about listening to and learning about the people that use our services and products. We have had a huge amount of contact from our customers this year, and our teams adapted and, in some cases, changed roles to make sure we were able to respond to any problems and questions as quickly as possible. We are immensely proud to have come so far from when we started our customer focused strategy, making JT more than just a job for our people.”

The Customer Experience Awards, now in its tenth year, celebrates the work of CX professionals from around the world. Virgin Money and InMoment won Gold, JT Group won Silver, with BT Consumer winning Bronze.

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Wi-Fi performance taken to the next level with new JT Plume® partnership

JT has teamed up with one of the leading names in Smart Home services; Plume, to provide Channel Islanders next generation Wi-Fi and new levels of control over the connectivity within their homes.

Hyperfast connectivity to the door isn’t enough anymore, customers want reliable and robust Wi-Fi, online support and a range of Smart Home services which is why we’ve worked with Plume to launch JT Total Wi-Fi.

JT already delivers speeds of up to 1Gbps direct to every property with a broadband connection, this new solution unleashes the full potential of Wi-Fi coverage within those properties. By being cloud-based, Plume’s technology uses artificial intelligence to constantly optimise and improve the overall Wi-Fi experience in the home —which is increasingly important as the number of smart devices in any typical home grows.

Daragh McDermott, Managing Director JT Channel Islands, said: “Our primary focus over the past decade has been to roll out a full fibre to the home network island wide in Jersey. Now completed, the JT network is today recognised as one of the fastest in the world, delivering guaranteed speeds to customers doors.

Our aim now is to provide leading-edge solutions to help customers maximise the potential of the network and the quality of their experience within the home itself. Our purchase of Zero1 was part of that long-term strategy, with the next step being the launch of our partnership with the world recognised leader in home Wi-Fi coverage: Plume’’.

Wi-Fi inside the home is a far more complex technology than most people realise. Performance issues aren’t always straightforward to diagnose due to the way Wi-Fi signals move internally; everything from building materials like steel, granite, insulation to domestic appliances and electronics can block and disrupt Wi-Fi signals in a user’s home. This new JT Total Wi-Fi product will help overcome those barriers ensuring Wi-Fi is evenly and seamlessly distributed throughout the home, as well as providing a raft of features like diagnostics reports, checks, parental protection and control.

Our customer trials have highlighted the reality and practicality of shared spaces — particularly for those who work from home and will continue to do so partially or exclusively moving forward. ‘’User feedback has been really positive’’ said Daragh ‘’For the past few months we’ve been working with customers and our own people to test the product, using a range of large and small homes that had many to a few occupants and varied in the quantity of equipment within. The results have shown consistent internet speeds delivered throughout the home, providing the robust framework required to enable homes to integrate real and virtual activities without Wi-Fi ‘black spots’. Triallists were especially impressed with how simple it was to set-up and manage.

Tyson Marian, Chief Commercial Officer at Plume, said: “In JT, we found a partner that shares our aim of providing best-in-class connectivity with rich, smart home services and user experiences. It’s not only that JT’s full-fibre network provides some of the best results anywhere, but it’s also that they’ll ensure that service is delivered consistently. With the combination of our technologies, experience, and desire to get the best out of networks, JT and Plume will be hard to beat.”