Port Zante Staff Walk in Colleagues’ Shoes

Barrier attendant takes CEO role in workplace training exercise

BASSETERRE: In an innovative team-building initiative, the St. Kitts Urban Development Corporation conducted a role swap exercise that saw employees trading positions for a day at Port Zante.

Barrier attendant Rosemarie Woodley stepped into the CEO’s office, shadowing Ms. Kayrecia Nero Simmonds throughout the day. Meanwhile, HR Manager Prudencia Gaiton joined the facilities team on the ground, while administrative staff took on barrier and security duties.

The exercise aimed to give staff a clearer understanding of the diverse operations required to maintain Port Zante, the island’s bustling cruise ship terminal and cultural hub.

“The swap gave everyone a clearer view of the work that keeps Port Zante running and strengthened how we operate as a team,” SKUDC stated in announcing the initiative.

The corporation manages Port Zante, which serves as more than just a gateway for cruise passengers. Throughout the year, the facility hosts cultural performances, steelpan music, craft markets, and food festivals that showcase St. Kitts’ heritage to visitors and locals alike.

The role swap represents a fresh approach to workplace training, allowing employees to appreciate the challenges and responsibilities across different departments. From executive decision-making to frontline customer service and facility maintenance, staff gained firsthand experience of their colleagues’ daily duties.

SKUDC officials indicated the exercise successfully improved internal understanding and teamwork among the Port Zante workforce, which manages one of the island’s most visible and vital tourism facilities.