Seaboard Jamaica celebrates 25 years of service, evolving from 14 to over 100 employees, recognized for reliability and customer service. Established in 1999, it has made significant contributions to the shipping industry and local community, offering unique services such as free wheels and comprehensive support for various causes. Looking ahead, the company aims to continue innovation with sustainable practices.
Seaboard Jamaica commemorates 25 years of innovative service and significant growth in the shipping industry. Since its inception in 1999, it has transformed from a small outfit into a prominent player nationally, expanding its workforce from 14 to over 100 employees. The company is renowned for its dedication to reliability, exceptional customer service, and leadership within the sector.
Established as part of Seaboard Marine’s extensive regional operations since 1983, Seaboard Jamaica began its journey by acquiring the Miami-to-Kingston route from Kirk Line in 1995. Despite its initial local representation by Jamaica Freight and Shipping Company Limited, Seaboard Marine aimed to solidify its presence in Jamaica.
Chairman Charles Johnston and the inaugural CEO, Grantley Stephenson, inaugurated Seaboard Jamaica on October 1, 1999. With a culture that fosters employee satisfaction and longevity, 43 employees have served for over ten years, highlighting both a supportive environment and leadership by CEO CorahAnn Robertson-Sylvester. Veteran staff member Trevor Latchman remarked on the positive atmosphere, stating, “It’s a good day because the grass is green and the staff is happy!”
Seaboard Jamaica’s influence is evident beyond Kingston, marked by the establishment of a bonded warehouse in Montego Bay in 2002, colloquially called ‘Small Wharf.’ Further embedding itself in western Jamaica, the company opened its local agency in Montego Bay in October 2004, ensuring uninterrupted weekly shipping service via the MV Seaboard Sun, the only company to offer such a service to that region.
The company also distinguishes itself by providing free wheels or chassis for its customers as a legacy of its roll-on/roll-off service, facilitated by a dedicated chassis yard for efficient cargo handling. Seaboard Jamaica has been recognized for its exemplary performance, earning various awards from the Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association for Best Support Service.
On the community front, Seaboard Jamaica actively supports multiple initiatives, including education and health campaigns such as the Caribbean Christian School for the Deaf and the Jamaica Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. CEO Robertson-Sylvester expresses optimism for the future, saying, “We have an excellent mix of experienced staff and young, energetic professionals to chart the future. The aim is to delight our customers, do good in our community, and do so in a sustainable way.” She emphasized the recent deployment of environmentally friendly V-class LNG vessels that will significantly reduce their carbon footprint, indicating a promising outlook for Seaboard Jamaica and its parent company, Seaboard Marine.
In summary, Seaboard Jamaica’s 25-year journey has been marked by substantial growth, community involvement, and a commitment to sustainable practices. From its modest beginnings, the company has established itself as a cornerstone of Jamaica’s shipping industry, with a focus on customer satisfaction and environmental responsibility. As it looks to the future, Seaboard Jamaica aims to sustain its leadership and community contributions while continuing to innovate in shipping solutions.
Original Source: jamaica-gleaner.com
