Jo Reeve (8535) has been awarded a BEM for services to government. He joined the civil service in 1998, straight after completing a degree in genetics at the University of Nottingham, and his first job was as a junior executive at the Committee for Horticulture.

A decade later he moved across to the policy Council where he dealt with external affairs. He went on to lead the States’ response to Brexit and said that navigating this was the piece of work for which he is most proud.  Jo’s work was invaluable in the wake of the decision and was adopted by the governments of Jersey and the Isle of Man too.

"I was bowled over and honoured to have find out I had been nominated let alone be granted this award,” he told reporters.

“It was a total surprise.  For me, this is an award on behalf of the fantastic external relations team, including the offices in Brussels and Caen. It is great to have all of their hard work recognised. The team are dedicated and care deeply about promoting Guernsey, its interests and defending our position. I am proud and lucky to work for the States of Guernsey, alongside so many amazing professionals.

“I have always wanted do a job where I can give something back. The work that the team do is enjoyable and it is unparalleled in its unpredictability but at times it can be very challenging. It also means that at times I am not around for my wife Catherine who is also committed civil servant herself and my two young sons, Alex and Felix.  

“They also deserve recognition, so this is for them as well.  I am excited about being able to celebrate this achievement with my family."

Jo is also being recognised for his work during the pandemic. He worked with the UK to ensure Guernsey secured its supply lines.