Testimonials

“The active engagement — that was the most critical thing. Being able to reach out to you, and you being responsive. Accessibility and ongoing engagement made all the difference.”

The Government of Barbados engaged PHARE to address a range of challenges, particularly the need for an independent, expert perspective to guide the highest decision-makers with confidence. PHARE delivered.

 

“For me, it was about not having someone — an independent person — with the technical knowledge to advise us on the transformation we were undertaking. Nothing beats experience. For certain matters dealing with boards, you need specialists. Boards make the final decision, but they need to be fully seized of the facts, understand the issues, and assess the risks. Without experience in that space, it’s hard to properly assess those risks, and you may end up relying too much on management. That’s where an independent expert can validate the recommendations coming to the board.”

 

PHARE’s role went beyond technical expertise — it helped shift mindsets, strengthen the team, and sharpen the direction of the vision.

“You may know where you want to go, but not be certain of the path. The challenge was: were we getting the best technical advice to guide us there? The value of PHARE’s advice was in helping us better understand the various options we needed to consider to achieve our vision.”

 

Communication and presence were defining features of the engagement.

“It wasn’t just a weekly or bi-weekly call. It was ongoing collaboration — proactive interaction. You didn’t need to be prompted; you were already asking, ‘Have you thought about this? Have you thought about that?’ That kind of independent validation on proposals was invaluable.”

 

The results?

“We got to a plan. We completed the business plan — the key deliverable — so we could present to the Government a clear roadmap for CBC’s future and the implications of that path.”

The engagement built more than just a deliverable — it built a long-term relationship.

“We have built a business relationship that will be ongoing.”

 

Would Oliver recommend PMCL to others?

“Yes. I would.”