March 4, 2024 – Freeport, The Bahamas: The Grand Bahama Port Authority Limited (GBPA) is pleased to announce that its Building & Development Services (BDS) Department has obtained International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9001:2015 certification.
ISO 9001 is a globally recognized and widely respected standard that sets the criteria for a quality management system, ensuring organizations consistently provide high-quality products and services. At GBPA, the decision to pursue ISO 9001:2015 certification was driven by a Company-wide commitment to meeting best-in-class standards. In November 2023, the BDS Department was tested against the stringent ISO standards and succeeded on the first try.
“Achieving ISO 9001 certification is not only an extraordinary achievement for our BDS team, but also a pioneering accomplishment within the Grand Bahama Port Authority,” commented Ian Rolle, GBPA President. “The Department has put into place effective processes that demonstrate our commitment to global standards of quality and continuous improvement and enable us to provide the highest standard of service to our customers every day.”
ISO certification ensures a number of benefits to customers and to the future of the wider Grand Bahama community. The customer experience will be enhanced through integration and streamlining of internal procedures, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Such internationally recognized standards enhance the image and reputation of the BDS Department and GBPA as a whole, aligning us with best-in-class service and providing a level of attraction, comfort and security to potential investors.
“Prior to the certification process, the team undertook months of rigorous preparation involving a comprehensive review and testing of existing practices and the implementation of improvements to enhance overall efficiency and effectiveness,” said Glendia Sweeting, Manager of Quality Assurance & Special Projects. “The BDS Department, in collaboration with the Quality Assurance Team, worked tirelessly to align processes, establish robust quality control measures, and document procedures to meet ISO 9001 exacting standards. Strong leadership played a pivotal role in guiding the team through the certification process, ensuring that everyone understood the significance of achieving ISO 9001 certification and was committed to the shared goal.”
While the certification marks a momentous achievement, it also catalyzes continuous improvement across GBPA departments. “ISO 9001 sets a very high standard of operating practices that serve as an example to teams across GBPA,” added Mr. Rolle. “It highlights the positive outcomes that can be achieved through collaboration, dedication and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Other departments are encouraged to follow them, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation throughout the Grand Bahama Port Authority.”
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