Connecting with Crew

Human Resource professionals don’t always need to be confined to the office, but rather should venture out into the real world to truly understand and support the needs of an organisation.

By stepping out of the traditional office environment, HR professionals can witness firsthand the challenges, successes, and day-to-day workings of the workforce. In HR terminology, this concept is known as “gemba”, a term derived from Lean management philosophy, emphasising the importance of being present in the workplace to gain a deeper insight into the operations and culture of an organisation.

No doubt, this has even greater meaning in our industry, shipping, where crew are often at great distances to shore-based colleagues.

Recently, a group of colleagues from Marlow Philippines’ shore-based team had this opportunity, touring a vessel and engaging with crew. “Last year, when I joined Marlow, one item in my bucket list was to visit and tour a ship. Today, that wish became a reality,” said HR Manager, Lee M. Manalaysay.

Together with colleague in HR, Jomaila Gonzales and colleagues from the Crew Operations team, Joy Ramos and Lordwyn, the team went to the Port of Batangas for a ship familiarisation visit on board BBC Onyx.

Such initiatives help teams ashore to better understand the working environment of crew, and develop a deeper appreciation for the challenges and successes occurring at the operational level, and life at sea in general.

It also fosters a collaborative approach by involving teams in discussions about their tasks and processes, and encouraging open communication and idea-sharing. Likewise, it helps to drive and implement more effective practices that truly resonate with our seafarer colleagues and the organisation on the whole.

“I was so inspired with this visit. We had a full day and long trip, but it was all so worth it. We gained so much learnings and understandings from our ship visit,” added Manalaysay.

Big thanks to the Captain, Officers and all the crew of BBC Onyx for their hospitality, insights and tour of the vessel.