BASSETERRE, St. Kitts - Two staffers at Christophe Harbour were last week named Employee and Manager of the Quarter for the second quarter of 2014.
Maintenance Technician Virgil Pemberton and Executive Assistant/Office Manager Akela Browne were the recipient of the awards, following months of hard work and determination in their respective fields.
In an interview with SKNVibes Pemberton explained that this was his first time winning the award despite being nominated on a few occasions in the past.
“Yes I was nominated a few times and did not win it. When I heard I won it I was excited but I was not surprised because I knew my name was there already.”
He credited his winning of the award to the extra work that he put in during the past months. He also expressed confidence that he can duplicate this achievement in the future.
“I think I can win it again. It will take extra work. From since I started working here, we started as a two-man maintenance team. Now it is four and from time to time there will be just two of us. Then we really had to pull the weight for everybody. I think I come out every day and give it my best and my all.”
The 35-year-old St. Peters resident had some words of encouragement for his fellow colleagues.
“I will just say to everybody else to continue to work hard, be patient because nothing happens before its time. As long as the time come for you to be nominated you will be.”
Manager of the Month and mother of two, Browne revealed that it was her first time winning the award and said that she feels that her friendly nature was a major contributing factor to her success.
“I think I am a very friendly person who is always willing to assist where ever there is a need. I am always looking for ways to help encourage and motivate staff. I think that was probably why I was nominated.”
Like Pemberton, Browne said she was also confident of capturing again.
“I think I can win it again and I think anyone can but the awards are not only about doing what you are paid to do and doing it well, but symbolizes and recognizes associates for going beyond their regular duties, stepping out of that circle and showing initiative.”
She also offered words of advice for her co-workers which they could apply to their work regimen in order to achieve success.
“Sometimes managers can be more of a listening ear to their staff, and not only be a manager that gives directives, but also be a team player; lending a hand to staff in need, and overall showing support and encouragment staff.
