Strategic planning key, says new Guardsman general manager
Published:Monday | January 11, 2016 | 12:00 AMKeisha Hill
Every business carries out strategic planning, although the formality of that process varies greatly from one company to the next. However, managers at every level of the hierarchy must ultimately agree on a detailed, integrated plan of action for each year.
Outside of his administrative and financial responsibilities, Ricardo Blackwood, newly appointed general manager of Guardsman Limited, is also focused on the planning and coordination of the strategic outlook of the company.
"I like challenges and this new role gives me the opportunity to take on new ones, especially in a financially demanding environment," Blackwood said.
Combining a strong academic background with more than 15 years of service in the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF), Blackwood is an expert in security operations. He holds a BSc in political science from the University of the West Indies, Mona, as well as a diploma in advanced infantry tactics and environmental management.
He has also completed courses in civil military co-operation and civil military response to terrorism.
"In my previous role, I was more focused on the operational function of the company and, while that's a significant part of what we do at Guardsman, in my new capacity, I have the added functions of human resource management, finance and business development under my portfolio," he added.
Blackwood's vision is to create the necessary environment to ensure the company's continued dominance in the security industry. He is proud to be part of a team that provides high-quality security as he sees this as crucial to the nation's development.
GROWTH AGENDA
"We intend to undergo aggressive growth of our clientele by providing innovative products and services, continuous development of our human resource assets so we can meet and exceed our deliverables to our clients, use of scientific methodology in the coordination of our operational deployment to yield greater efficiency, and creating a positive work environment that fosters harmony and advocates working smarter," he said.
His focus continues to be that Guardsman Limited always provides nothing less than smart solutions across the island and the region. Initially, Blackwood has started with the implementation of a human resource initiative to create a better work environment.
"Starting with re-fostering of trust with our staff, we have revitalised our development programme and commenced our operational and projection for 2017," he said.