Former Grocery Executive Darrell Jones Announces Candidacy for B.C. Conservative Leadership
The race to lead the British Columbia Conservative Party has gained another prominent contender as Darrell Jones, the former president of the Pattison Food Group, officially entered the contest on January 27, 2024. His announcement brings the total number of declared candidates to six, with several more individuals rumoured to be considering bids in the coming weeks.
From Grocery Clerk to Political Contender
Jones, a long-time resident of Surrey, brings a unique background to the political arena. He famously worked his way up from a grocery clerk at an Overwaitea store in his hometown of Cranbrook to eventually become president of Save-On-Foods, a position he held for thirteen years before retiring in February 2023. Throughout his career, he managed 23 stores across British Columbia in various leadership roles, becoming a familiar face to many British Columbians through his "Darrell's deals" advertising campaigns and the iconic cardboard cutouts that greeted customers at local grocery stores.
"As someone who's built a career from the stockroom to the boardroom, I know what it takes to deliver results," Jones stated in his campaign announcement. "I've managed budgets, created thousands of jobs and navigated challenges. And as a long-time Surrey resident who has travelled this province many times, I understand the heartbeat of our communities."
A Crowded Field of Candidates
Jones joins an increasingly crowded field of candidates vying to replace former leader John Rustad. The current list of declared contenders includes:
- Indigenous policy critic Caroline Elliott
- Capilano University chancellor Yuri Fulmer
- Former B.C. Liberal cabinet minister Iain Black
- Kamloops Centre MLA Peter Milobar
- Prince George-North Cariboo MLA Sheldon Clare
- Rossland contractor Warren Hamm
Additionally, political observers note that Langley-Abbotsford MLA Harman Bhangu, Abbotsford South MLA Bruce Banman, and former South Surrey-White Rock MP Kerry-Lynne Findlay are reportedly considering entering the race, which could further expand the field in the coming weeks.
Healing Party Divisions and Focusing on Key Issues
In an interview with Postmedia News, Jones expressed confidence in his ability to unite a party that has experienced significant internal turmoil, resulting in the resignation or expulsion of five MLAs along with the departure of Leader John Rustad. He emphasized the need for the Conservative party to concentrate on issues that matter most to British Columbians, particularly:
- Affordability and the rising cost of living
- Public safety concerns across communities
- Healthcare system improvements and accessibility
- Property rights protection in light of the Cowichan title decision in Richmond
"What you need to do is sit down in a private conversation with all 45, or whatever the number of MLAs that you have, sit down, have conversations with them, understand where they're coming from, what they think is the most important for the people in their constituency," Jones explained regarding his approach to party unity. "When you have those conversations, then you'll find that a majority of them have the same goals, which is to make the situation for all British Columbians better."
The entry of a high-profile business leader like Jones adds an interesting dynamic to the leadership contest, potentially attracting voters who value private sector experience in political leadership. His background in managing large organizations and navigating complex challenges could resonate with British Columbians concerned about economic management and practical governance solutions.
