But Jackson’s involvement with the Island Games goes far beyond that, given he had first taken part in the biennial spectacle as a hurdler and relay runner at Guernsey 1987.
He returned to Games competition as a shooter at Gotland 2017 – some 30 years since his debut – and an expansive sports administration career means that he carries a further wealth of experience into the role.
The former Giga secretary succeeds Jon Marley, who had committed to only two years as chairman, but he has a longer-term vision that extends to at least Isle of Man 2029.
‘I’m really looking forward to the next couple of years and getting things going,’ he said.
‘I want to go to the Isle of Man and see where we are.
‘Certainly, the next two Games is where I’m looking.
‘After then, the board’s make-up might change completely again.’
Although never a medallist in his individual Games career, Jackson has long enjoyed watching other sportspeople compete and succeed.
Having attended Orkney 2025 as a roving Giga representative rather than being largely confined to the shooting range, he saw that on full show.
‘I just like the excitement of people crossing the line or winning a match,’ he added.
‘You just see that elation on people’s faces – and the relief.
‘Because they put in all those years and years and months and months of hard work, and to actually achieve something, whether it be a personal best or a gold medal, it’s just great to see that reaction and the joy on their faces basically.
‘And that was really relevant and evident in Orkney, because that was the first time I had been able to get around to all the sports.’
For Jackson and co, the hard work has already begun ahead of the Faroe Islands 2027.
He admits it is a ‘mammoth logistical task’ facilitating sending a team of up to 300 to an away Games. And the Faroes’ location is not making it any easier.
‘We’re looking now – we’re looking at kit, we’re looking at accommodation, we’re looking at travel.
‘It’s regarded as a quiet time because everyone’s thinking it’s 2027 and two years away, but it’s not – it’s just over 18 months away.
‘We need to go start arranging our charter flights or whatever, otherwise we’ll lose out, because everyone’s trying to do the same thing at the same time.’
Among his Giga allies is Karen Buck-Archenoul, who has maintained her team manager role following a job well done in Orkney.
Sue Naftel stays on the board and takes the role of secretary, Matt Bowen remains treasurer, and Isla Wright is one of three directors, alongside new additions Ross Yeates and Emma Webb.
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