Sheridan Gregoire

Sheridan Gregoire is a Dominican businessman, media executive, and former public sector leader best known as the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Q95 FM Radio and a key figure in Dominica’s cultural and business development landscape. His contributions span broadcasting, entrepreneurship, and national economic initiatives that have influenced both private enterprise and public discourse.

Early Life and Education

Born in Grand Bay, Dominica, Sheridan Gregoire attended the Dominica Grammar School before pursuing higher education at the University of the West Indies, where he obtained a Bachelor of Science in Management Studies. This academic foundation in management and economics helped shape his later roles in business and media leadership.

Career and Institutional Roles

Gregoire’s early professional career was rooted in national development. He served as Chief Executive Officer of the National Development Corporation (NDC) during the late 1990s, a tenure that coincided with Dominica’s early efforts to diversify its economy through culture and tourism. Under his direction, the World Creole Music Festival was conceptualised and launched in 1997, providing a sustainable tourism event that continues to draw thousands of visitors annually and contribute to Dominica’s creative economy.

Following his NDC leadership, Gregoire transitioned into private enterprise. He became the President and CEO of West Indies Communications Enterprise Ltd. (WICE), the parent company of Q95 FM Radio. Since its establishment, Q95 has positioned itself as a dynamic media outlet known for open dialogue, investigative journalism, and political debate. The station is widely regarded as one of the most influential voices in Dominica’s broadcast landscape, with popular programmes such as The Hot Seat and Talk on the Block playing pivotal roles in national conversations on governance, economics, and social policy.

In addition to media and tourism, Gregoire has long been active in business advocacy. He served as President of the Dominica Association of Industry and Commerce (DAIC), where he championed reforms to strengthen the private sector, promote small business financing, and encourage collaboration among large and emerging entrepreneurs. His leadership helped shape dialogue between the private sector and government on issues of competitiveness, taxation, and investment climate.

Public Commentary and Influence

Gregoire is recognised for his outspoken stance on transparency, accountability, and inclusive growth. Through his public addresses and radio commentaries, he has often urged Dominicans to embrace entrepreneurship, discipline, and innovation as drivers of national prosperity. His views frequently challenge both business and political leaders to prioritise fairness, merit, and access to opportunity.

He has collaborated with fellow entrepreneurs such as Sam Raphael of Jungle Bay Resort & Spa, advocating for private-sector-led support systems when traditional banks restrict small-business lending. Gregoire’s advocacy for alternative financing models has become part of a wider discussion on fostering economic resilience in small island developing states.

Challenges and Criticisms

With Q95’s prominence has come controversy. Critics have occasionally accused the station of harsh rhetoric and political bias, though many citizens view it as a rare platform for independent speech and civic participation. In 2024, Gregoire faced public criticism after terminating long-serving sports commentator Ossie Lewis, sparking debate over management style and editorial independence. Gregoire defended the decision as a business matter, maintaining his commitment to professionalism within the network.

Recognition and Legacy

In 2021, Gregoire was named Personality of the Year by Dominica News Online for his influence in media and business. His lasting contributions include promoting open communication, helping to establish a national cultural asset through the World Creole Music Festival, and nurturing a generation of entrepreneurs and broadcasters. Sheridan Gregoire remains one of Dominica’s most recognisable public figures, an influential voice bridging business innovation, cultural heritage, and public dialogue.