projects to improve the working conditions of its employees. Some of the most noteworthy enhancements included improvements in the transportation service for employees; the installation of specially adapted containers for operational crews to use as rest compartments; and the reallocation of products delivered under the welfare programs. Likewise, additional plans were developed to encourage the professional growth of employees, such as an agreement signed with the National Service of Learning (Colombia) for the teaching of courses provided exclusively for employees and their families; and the framing of a policy and procedure for internal competitive examinations that will give employees the opportunity to apply for any company vacancies that may become available.
W
hile the Port of Barranquilla employs about 1,000 people, its social impact extends to more than 41,000 city workers. Port activity nowadays is characterised by a growing complexity that calls for a deeper knowledge of its overall development. It is no longer enough to perform an isolated function; one has to understand the whole process. The work of the Port of Barranquilla goes beyond the mere provision of goods and services; rather, it endeavors to complement and integrate activities relating to the personal and professional growth of all its workers. In recent years the Port of Barranquilla has increased its head count by 15 per cent. In terms of job numbers, this represents an important economic and social contribution to the city of Barranquilla. Part of the port’s proposed investment plan is directed at the training and development of its personnel. The Human Management Department is in
Occupational Health Center charge of implementing these plans for training and career advancement. Its aim is to optimize the relationship between the organization and its employees. The Port of Barranquilla’s Corporate Social Responsibility strategy includes services aimed at developing, individually and collectively, labor-related quality awareness. The port’s duties begin with growing and developing its human capital, a main driver of port logistics processes. In its internal processes and plans, it is constantly working towards the development of goals that transcend the strictly work-related issues to embrace the workers’ family environment. The work of the Personnel Selection and Training section is focused on implementing technical training sessions with a view to improving the work environment and the bond between employee and management. In 2013 the Port of Barranquilla executed plans and
Open 24 hours a day, this Port of Barranquilla service is staffed by a physician, nurses and occupational health analysts. It includes a hired ambulance service that is on call round the clock for emergencies.
Innovating The Port of Barranquilla implements Human Resources initiatives for the benefit of its employees. • Build-up of professional profiles • Promotion of teamwork • Identification and motivation of creative leadership for the discovery of new methods and innovative solutions to problems • Strategic planning as a key management tool • Training of personnel to provide customer-focused services. n
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