The Human Resource Management Association of Jamaica (HRMAJ) is calling on employers and business leaders across the island to lead with empathy, clear communication, and preparedness as the country begins to recover from the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa.

The association extended heartfelt sympathy to those who have lost loved ones, homes, and livelihoods, and urges companies to centre compassion and care in their approach to recovery.

“This is a time for leadership rooted in empathy. Many employees are returning to work while carrying invisible burdens, survivor’s guilt, emotional trauma, and uncertainty about their future. HR leaders must create space for healing and ensure that workplace decisions reflect care as much as compliance,” said HRMAJ president Dr Cassida Jones Johnson.

Jones Johnson noted that recovery, with respect to the workplace, must go beyond repairing physical spaces to rebuilding people and is encouraging organisations to take a holistic approach that addresses both the emotional and practical needs of employees.

This includes facilitating access to counselling and employee assistance programmes, creating psychologically safe spaces for team members to express how they’re coping, and maintaining open, compassionate communication during what is likely to be an extended period of adjustment.

Flexibility, she declared, will be key. Employers are being urged to make accommodations for staff who are navigating displacement, family disruptions, or loss. This may involve adjusting workloads, implementing remote work options, or providing special support for parents whose children have been affected by school closures or damaged facilities.

The HRMAJ is also encouraging organisations to recognise the mental health challenges that accompany disaster recovery by considering allowances for counselling or therapy beyond standard medical benefits.

Benefits of the sharing of ideas 

“The last five years have taught us the benefits of the sharing of ideas across all HR communities, both in the private and public sector. Once again, the HR profession is at the forefront of supporting employers, leaders and employees whilst ensuring self-care during this time. Our charity and community outreach arm, as well as our free webinars, will be here to support our members every step of the way,” continued Jones Johnson.

The HRMAJ is reminding employers of their role in the broader national recovery effort.

Allowing employees time off to volunteer or participate in community rebuilding initiatives, Jones Johnson said, not only helps communities heal but also reinforces a culture of care and national solidarity within the workplace.

“Even when the business environment is uncertain, employees value clear communication,” she argued, adding, “Leaders should be upfront about what’s possible, show compassion in how decisions are made, and work collaboratively to find solutions.”

For companies whose operations have been disrupted, the HRMAJ is advocating for transparency and fairness in conversations around salaries and benefits. Organisations are encouraged to work closely with finance and legal teams to identify interim pay or assistance options, while remaining compliant with Jamaica’s labour laws and keeping employees informed about business continuity plans.

Jones Johnson highlights that Hurricane Melissa has underscored the urgent need for stronger HR crisis management frameworks across both public and private sectors.