Red Stripe reaffirmed its reputation for workplace excellence by securing the sectional prize for Manufacturing with a focus on Human Resources at the National Quality Awards (NQA) Ceremony and Banquet, on Thursday, January 30, held at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel. 

The NQA, Jamaica’s first quality systems-based awards programme, recognises local businesses that not only demonstrate high standards in both production and service delivery but also, companies that embed continuous improvement in their operations.

The Human Resource Award is one of five sectional awards presented in the National Quality Awards Programme, specifically within the Manufacturing and Service categories. This award is based on a thorough evaluation of an organisation’s human resource practices and policies, with a focus on three key areas: Work Systems, Employee Development, and Workplace and Environmental Safety.

In assessing Work Systems, the organisation’s hiring and recruitment procedures, along with its selection criteria, are carefully reviewed. Employee Development considers how well the organisation supports its workforce through recognition programs, training initiatives, and performance management systems. Additionally, the evaluation looks at broader workplace and environmental safety measures, ensuring that organisations not only comply with best practices but also create a safe, supportive, and engaging work environment. Those who demonstrate excellence in these areas stand out as leaders in fostering a thriving workplace culture. The awardees were selected using information garnered from the assessment exercise and the winners were ratified by an Independent Examiners’ Board. 

“Red Stripe’s achievement in winning the Human Resource Sectional Award in the National Quality Awards competition is a testament to its commitment to excellence in workforce development and operational standards. As a major manufacturing powerhouse, Red Stripe not only elevates the quality of Jamaica’s manufacturing sector but also drives economic growth by incorporating local raw materials and making a significant impact on exports. This recognition highlights the company’s dedication to building a high-performance culture that strengthens Brand Jamaica on the global stage,” said Dr Velton Gooden, Bureau of Standards Jamaica Executive Director.

Building on this recognition, Minister of Industry, Investment, and Commerce, Senator Aubyn Hill, underscored the broader impact of quality-driven initiatives, stating, “You have been recognised for your quality implementation, not just your quality plan and these awards make you much more than winners—they make you Jamaica’s standard bearers.” He further highlighted that quality serves as a catalyst for growth, emphasising that businesses must continue to improve to remain competitive. 

This commitment to continuous improvement is evident in Red Stripe’s approach to workplace culture. By fostering an environment that prioritises employee well-being, professional development, and operational excellence, the company ensures that its workforce remains engaged, productive, and prepared for the evolving demands of the industry. This dedication is reflected in a range of initiatives designed to enhance both the employee experience and overall business performance.

“At Red Stripe, our people are our greatest asset,” said Judon Bowden, Head of Human Resources at Red Stripe. “We believe that a thriving workforce drives business success, and this award validates our commitment to creating an environment where employees feel supported, empowered, and motivated to excel. By prioritising talent development, well-being, and inclusion, we are not only shaping careers but also contributing to the future of manufacturing in Jamaica.”

Red Stripe’s approach to human capital development is guided by employee feedback, collected through its Climate Survey, which informs key workplace policies and initiatives. A testament to this people-first strategy, the company’s Health and Well-being Score saw a 16 percentage-point increase, moving from 47% in 2023 to 63% in 2024.

To further enhance workplace culture, Red Stripe has implemented progressive initiatives, including ‘No Meeting Fridays’—ensuring employees have dedicated focus time; flexible working hours— promoting work-life balance; a dedicated employee support network—fostering holistic development; wellness-driven benefits—including an in-house gym, massage chairs, spa days, and wellness chats and the WE CAN (Women Empowerment through Collaboration, Allyship, and Networking) Programme which supports mentorship and professional growth for women.

As Red Stripe continues to push boundaries in workplace performance excellence, this award reinforces its unwavering commitment to setting new benchmarks in HR innovation—where investing in people is the foundation for sustained business success and national impact. In addition to the Human Resource Focus, sectional awards are given for Organisational Focus, Process Management, Customer Focus and Business Results.