From her humble beginnings in rural Jamaica to becoming one of the Caribbean’s most respected tax experts, Elizabeth Ann Jones, Chairman of The Jamaica National Group, never followed a master plan—just a commitment to doing her best.
“I was never one who had specific timelines to accomplish anything. I just tried to be the best that I could be at any given time,” she said after receiving the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Jamaica’s (ICAJ) 2024 Distinguished Member Award.
Raised on the Worthy Park Estate in Luidas Vale, St. Catherine, and later sent to boarding school in Kingston, Ms. Jones never set out to specialize in taxation. She graduated from the University of the West Indies with a degree in Chemistry, but soon found herself in the world of auditing. Realizing early on that it wasn’t the right fit, she pivoted to tax—and never looked back.
Her journey was marked by bold decisions and a deep desire to make a difference. In the tax field, her unwavering commitment to excellence allowed her not only to lead but to shape the profession itself.
With more than four decades of service across both public and private sectors, Ms. Jones led KPMG’s Jamaican tax practice for many years. Her work included advising on local and international tax planning, navigating double taxation treaties, interpreting legislation, and liaising between clients and tax authorities on assessments and incentives.
“It is an honourable profession; it gives you great opportunity, flexibility and reward, all depending on what you put into it,” she said.
Ms. Jones also contributed to national development, serving the Government of Jamaica in various roles, including as special advisor to the Minister of Finance from 1989 to 1992. During that period, she played a key role in the implementation of the General Consumption Tax (GCT)—a major milestone in the country’s fiscal history.
“I think I’m very fortunate to have had, along the way, persons who have encouraged me and have been a big influence on my development and my becoming the person I am today, worthy of being honoured,” she added.
She received the ICAJ’s highest honour during its 60th Anniversary Awards Banquet on May 1 at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in New Kingston. The award, presented annually, recognizes ICAJ members for outstanding contributions to the Institute and the accountancy profession in Jamaica.
“We are proud to celebrate a professional whose service, integrity and leadership continue to inspire,” said ICAJ President Eric Scott, who praised her dedication and impact at the event. “What truly distinguishes Ms. Jones is not just her expertise but her steady principled approach to leadership, her quiet mentorship, and her unwavering service to the community.”
Outside her professional achievements, Ms. Jones has devoted significant time to volunteer service in education, youth development, and civic engagement. She currently sits on the Board of Directors and audit committee of Radio Jamaica Limited and holds the distinction of being the first woman to chair The Jamaica National Group.
Earl Jarrett, CEO and Deputy Chairman of The Jamaica National Group, described her as a calm and steady leader who brings grace to every challenge.
“She is unafraid to take risks or embrace new opportunities, always ensuring that no one is left behind,” he said. “I admire her attention to detail, her mentorship, and her loyalty. She consistently creates opportunities for personal growth and learning. I’ve never heard her raise her voice or speak down to anyone, but you’ll always know when she’s not pleased. I rely on her to keep me calm.”
Colleagues across the business, legal, and accounting sectors echoed these sentiments, many crediting her for setting a quiet but powerful standard of excellence and leadership.
