Career for life ‘fast becoming obsolete’ – employment expert

Jessica Roland, managing partner for law firm Mourant in Guernsey, said that employers and employees were facing significant challenges amid changes in the workplace.

She was speaking after the inaugural Channel Islands Human Capital Summit in Guernsey, where she presented about employment law on the island and whether it was fit for the future.

More than 100 delegates attended the event at St James, which explored issues around the future of work. It was organised by the Bright Futures charity, with presenters from international and local organisations covering a range of topics – including the impact of technology.

‘It’s clear that both employers and employees are facing significant challenges and that the idea of one career for life is fast becoming obsolete,’ said Advocate Roland.

‘As one speaker quite rightly noted, people need to start considering the workplace at a very early age and way beyond traditional retirement – it really has become a “cradle to grave” issue.

‘Guernsey needs to determine if its business practices, culture and legislation are appropriate for the future of work, and to create a diverse, inclusive environment that supports all people at every stage of their careers.’

She also praised the summit, of which Mourant was the headline sponsor. ‘The calibre of speakers and the quality of the sessions were outstanding and we were thrilled to be able to sponsor such a broad-ranging conference,’ said Advocate Roland.

n Bright Futures will be hosting a number of further events through the year, with more information available at brightfutures.org.gg.