Birthplace: Mandeville, Jamaica, West Indies. Profession: Finance executive. Organization: Haven Technologies. Title: CFO. Significant others: Devon Johnson (spouse); Camille Johnson and Danielle Johnson (daughters), the entire Greaves family. Alma mater: University of the West Indies, Mona, Jamaica; Columbia University Business School, NYC. Languages spoken: English, Jamaica Patios; studied French (that’s about it).
Current project: CFO for Haven, a SaaS Insurtech Startup. Creating a new finance organization and operational SaaS company. Recent professional development: Acceptance to CHIEF and leveraging their programs. They are amazing! Latest contribution to others: Ongoing mentorship and expansion of what one of my mentees calls “Hopies”. Across the US and Jamaica. Joined the newly created MHS Global Alumni Network Secretariat as Secretary. What’s been your big (or biggest) leap? Starting a new Industry and a new company all at the same time. Hobbies: Traveling, dancing, music; youth development, community volunteering. Recent travel or adventure: Travelled to Jamaica twice during Covid. The local trips through the countryside and the beaches were simply amazing. It never gets old. Experience of a lifetime: Joined a team of co-workers on a four week sponsored professional development and volunteer trip to South Africa. Together with fifteen participants representing ten different nationalities, the opportunity to leverage my professional skills to advance the local community while gaining deep cultural experience was truly life changing.
Personality profile: Organized, positive; an executor. Moral compass: Always do the right thing! And, “input = output”. How do you define an ideal business relationship? Transparency and trust. What is your greatest joy? Seeing others activate their full potential, which drives my passion for youth development and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. What natural talent have you neglected? Acting, public speaking. What occupation, other than your own, do you most admire? Teaching, career coaching.
Who has had the greatest influence on your life? My mom and Bob Marley. What is the best advice you received growing up? Make time for the important things in life (my mom). What is the best advice you received in your career? Working hard is important, however, the right people need to know you and your work. “Hold up your head sometimes”. What is your favorite app? LinkedIn. What is your go-to source of creative inspiration? Bob Marley's “Talking Blues”. What world event has had the greatest influence on your life? The death of George Floyd.
What is your big idea?
Developing an organization that provides access, mentoring and information to URM and young immigrants.
What change would you like to see in the world? Removal of systemic barriers to the mainstream society. What message do you want to send out into the world? Keep HOPE alive. What widely held belief do you reject? The concept of LUCK. What mega-trend most excites you? The increased focus on equity and sustainability.
What actor would you choose to play you in the movie about your life? Kerry Washington. As a kid, what did you first want to be when you grew up?A teacher. What advice would you give your younger self? Have more fun!
Personal mission: Youth education and development. Favorite quote: “For a peaceful life.” Desired epitaph: One Love.
