Owen James
- PBCJ AV Library
- Mar 31
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 10
A Leader in Jamaican Media and Business Journalism
Owen James is an esteemed Jamaican journalist and media executive whose remarkable career has reshaped the realm of business journalism in Jamaica. His journey began at the Gleaner Company in 1973, where he quickly ascended to the role of Star Editor within just two years. Over the next 11 years, he refined his journalistic prowess at the newspaper before transitioning to the Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation (JBC) in February 1983. It was at JBC that Mr. James truly began to leave an indelible mark on Jamaica's media landscape.
During his 15-year tenure at JBC, Owen James's contributions were significant and far-reaching. His expertise was recognized in 1988 when he was appointed the acting director of News, Sports, and Current Affairs, a role he held until 1992. He then became the director of Radio News, and in November 1995, he ascended to the position of director of Radio and Television News.
One of his most noteworthy innovations during this period was the introduction of "The Morning News Hour" in 1987, a pioneering 75-minute program hosted by Desmond Chambers and 'Bev' Cole. This program is widely recognized as a precursor to the morning news magazines that have since become a staple on Jamaican radio. James's vision for the show was rooted in a commitment to providing timely, comprehensive news that resonated with listeners across the nation.
Under Owen James's leadership, JBC also saw the establishment of the first cohesive islandwide network of news correspondents. He recognized the need to balance the representation of urban and rural stories in JBC's newsroom, galvanizing a diverse group of 'country' dwellers, such as Margaret Gauron, Ruth Coombs, Leo Lambert, and Vando Palmer, to serve as stringers. This initiative not only enhanced the quality of coverage but also fostered greater engagement between the JBC and the Jamaican populace, ensuring that all voices were heard in the media narrative. James's influence at JBC extended beyond programming; he played a pivotal role in crafting a comprehensive Code of Practice for journalists, establishing ethical standards that bolstered the credibility of news reporting. This commitment to responsible journalism laid the foundation for a new era in Jamaican broadcasting, emphasizing the importance of integrity in media.
Upon leaving JBC in 1997, Mr. James launched his own production company, creating impactful business programs that resonated with Jamaican audiences. He gained widespread acclaim for hosting and producing 'Business Day' and 'The Business Review' on Television Jamaica (TVJ). 'The Business Review,' in particular, celebrated entrepreneurial success stories, highlighting not just large corporations but also the inspiring journeys of individual innovators.
In 2003, he conceptualized the ground-breaking program 'On a Personal Note', which tackled personal finance issues relevant to the everyday lives of Jamaicans. The show struck a chord with younger audiences, addressing critical topics such as saving strategies, home ownership, and buying a first car. Its uplifting motivational segments and practical advice helped it garner significant popularity, ultimately earning Jamaica's top business award shortly after its debut. Additionally, James produced 'Market Watch JA', a succinct four-minute business segment aired on Jamaica's leading radio station, IRIE F.M. He also founded businesscontentjamaica.com, the nation's first video-driven business website, showcasing expertly crafted business stories from Jamaica and the Caribbean.
Owen James's profound impact on Jamaica's media landscape extends beyond his numerous groundbreaking initiatives; he has cultivated a culture of informed business discourse and empowered individuals through financial literacy. His innovative programming and unwavering commitment to ethical journalism have inspired countless journalists and entrepreneurs, ensuring his legacy endures in the field of business media. Through his visionary work at JBC and beyond, Owen James has not only transformed how news and business stories are told but has also significantly enriched the Jamaican media narrative, leaving a lasting imprint on the hearts and minds of the public he serves.
