The British Ports Association (BPA) has established a new Human Resources and Employment Network which met for the first time last week in London.
During this meeting, the group identified some key areas on which it will focus. The initial assembly brought together HR managers and specialists from BPA member ports and discussed topics including; diversity at all levels of the ports sector, apprenticeships, benchmarking, attracting talent and employment law.
The group’s first meeting took place on December 2 and representatives from ports travelled from all corners of the UK to be in attendance. The group enables its members to collaborate, share experiences and look at best practice options. It also offers an environment to discuss common employment challenges faced by the members.
The UK ports sector currently employs around 118,000 people in a wide range of roles and is a highly productive industry. The new group will focus on supporting and inspiring young people to choose a career in the ports and maritime sectors and in turn allow the industry to thrive in the UK.
Nicky Goldsbrough, Director of Corporate Services at Shoreham Port was elected to Chair the Human Resources and Employment Network. Commenting on the meeting, Nicky said: “The Network enables port HR professionals to come together to discuss a range of interesting and challenging issues. The first meeting was well attended and I was delighted with the enthusiasm and commitment of the members to work together more closely and to take a collective approach to common issues that the industry is facing”.
“The creation of the group creates the ideal platform to improve the promotion of careers in the ports and maritime sector and to develop current employability initiatives.”
The group will meet twice a year and the next meeting is set for the summer of 2017.
