Susan Jackson is the Opposition Whip, Shadow Minister of Education, Social Development, and Seniors, and a member of the Parliament of Bermuda. She is a fourth generation Jackson to commit to public service. Her father was the late Senator Albert Jackson, an Independent who served as Senate President for twelve years; and her mother, Louise Jackson was a Member of Parliament and Shadow Minister for Health and Seniors. Her great grandfather was the second black Bermudian elected to the House of Assembly, in 1887.
“I approach public service with a deep sense of responsibility and pride. I believe trust is the most important ingredient for effective representation and that trust must be earned.”
Susan is also a corporate communications specialist, having spent over twenty years delivering strategic and tactical support during crisis, acquisitions and infrastructure development for power and telecommunications utilities. She is currently HSBC Bank Bermuda Limited, Head of Marketing for the Corporate and Global Banking businesses. Susan’s early career included service in the Bermuda Department of Education as a Speech Language Pathologist where she provided direct therapy to students with articulation and cognitive delays.
She is committed to community service and has volunteered for a variety of charitable organisations including her current role as Chairman of Summerhaven, Bermuda’s only residence for people living in wheelchairs. She also mentors high school students interested in marketing and as Vice President of the International Women’s Forum (Bermuda), mentors female executives seeking support in their leadership development.
Educated in Bermuda, England and the United States, Susan has a BSc. in Speech from Emerson College, Boston, Massachusetts and professional designations from Communication, Advertising and Marketing (CAM) Education Foundation in London, England.
Susan has two children Scott (26) and Samantha (23). She enjoys running, reading, travel and puzzles.
What is your favourite Christmas dish or indulgence?
The entire Christmas dinner! I wait all year for the indulgence.
What is your Christmas wish for Bermuda?
Silent, holy nights. Spending quiet time with families and letting go of all the stress.
Do you have a New Year’s Resolution?
Paying attention to details. A work in progress.
Cassava or farine?
Cassava with chicken for sure.
Christmas lunch or dinner?
Christmas dinner please.
What is your favourite childhood memory of Christmas?
Waking up before dawn and sneaking down to the Christmas tree and seeing the beautifully decorated tree and all the gifts.
What is your favourite holiday event (Santa parade, boat parade, Bermuda National Trust Walkabout, etc.)?
The National Trust Walkabout, even though I don’t get to go because we’re always having long parliamentary sessions.
What signifies the start of the holiday season for you?
The arrival of Christmas trees and the lingering smell of pine needles.
What are your Boxing Day traditions?
Spending time with family and friends. I enjoy listening to all the Christmas cheer.
