Kingston Wharf 75th Anniversary

NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2020 39 KINGSTON WHARVES 75TH ANNIVERSARY In 2001, she left the insurance in- dustry for an administrative position at KWL; a humble beginning which she is still very proud of to this day. “I have a philosophy that any job I do must be done to the highest standard. If I am the floor sweeper, then I am going to be the best floor sweeper anyone has ever seen. I re- solved every day to approach my job with professionalism,”she noted. In 19 years, she received seven promotions. These positions in- clude claims officer; accounting clerk; port facility security officer; security, safety and claims manager; and operations manager. She recalled,“When I started, I did not have many female role models within the organisation, but I real- ised over time that I had one in a male – Mr (Grantley) Stephenson. I learnt a lot from him. I learnt about the importance of building a per- sonal brand, of always aiming for ex- cellence and the benefits of a good attitude. I also learnt the importance of integrity, honesty, and always fol- lowing through on commitments. He also set a positive example of how team members could focus and apply themselves to succeed educationally and professionally.” Terminal Operations is a major business centre within Kingston Wharves, responsible for over 70 per cent of the company’s revenues. As terminal manager, Miss Campbell is responsible for overseeing the day- to-day efficient management of the port as it relates to the movement of cargo on behalf customers – import- ers, exporters and other shipping partners; assisting with the strategic direction of the business unit, and ensuring its profitability and finan- cial viability. Miss Campbell currently manages a team of 500 employees compris- ing predominantly men. “It could be intimidating. But my strategy is always to be firmwhile maintaining respect for others and empowering my teammembers to think critically to get the job done efficiently,” she said. Her extensive training, coupled with the wealth of experience gar- nered on the job, positioned her for advancement within the company. While employed with KWL, she completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Management Studies and a Master’s in Business Administration with Nova Southeastern University. With the organisation’s support, she also earned a Diploma in Port Management and received certifi- cation in maritime security, safety and terminal management. Miss Campbell was also selected to participate in an International Maritime Organisation Training Course at the Maritime Training Institute in Le Havre, France, and participated in study tours of ter- minals in France, Colombia and the United States. In 2019, she was among a group of accomplished women honoured by Women in Maritime Caribbean for her achievement in the shipping industry. “It has been a fulfilling journey. I am looking forward to expanding my horizons, garnering new experi- ences and continuing to grow,”Miss Campbell stated. Valrie Campbell with other women at the Port of Kingston. VALRIE CONTINUED FROM 38