The pair were to speak to an audience of business leaders in Guernsey about innovation in finance and island businesses at the lunchtime event.

Instead of cancelling the event, Eliot and Dr Baxter contacted Jersey Seafaris, donned lifejackets, and chartered a RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) to get them across to Guernsey in time.

Eliot Lincoln said: “Innovation is about thinking differently to make something happen. Island businesses face many challenges from numerous disruptors, including the weather. We just didn’t think it was a challenge we were going to be facing first hand at our own innovation event.

“Initially we considered using technology to solve the problem when we knew we couldn’t fly – doing the presentations virtually through video conferencing. Then someone suggested a RIB and this seemed like the most innovative solution. It only took 45 minutes and although it was a bit cold doing the trip in suits, we got there just in time.”

Greenlight is the Channel Islands’ leading independent business change specialist offering expertise in strategic and transformational change. Founded by Eliot Lincoln in 2008, Greenlight has offices in Jersey, Guernsey, and Manchester, offering consultancy services including business analysis, programme management, and project management.

As well as speaking at the Greenlight event in Guernsey, Dr Baxter was due to teach an MBA seminar on the island. One of his students, Tasha Whipp, also a consultant with Greenlight, joined them on the boat.

Dr Baxter’s specialities include the innovation process, customer insight methods, and knowledge and learning in innovation. He said: “Technological change, changes to customer preferences, and changes to the regulatory frame work mean companies have to innovate more and faster than ever before.”