Quality People... who make quality products
Retaining great employees can be a challenge for many businesses, as they balance maintaining experience while supporting new talent to learn, grow, and sustain the future of the organisation.
Humes’ Sales Marketing Manager, Craig Williams, says that after just a few months in the role, he has been struck by the depth of experience across the business:
“While visiting sites around the country and seeing our teams in action, I was amazed by how many Humes team members have long tenure with the company. Speaking with them, it’s clear they bring a wealth of experience and institutional knowledge to the table every day.”
Did you know that 14.5% of Humes staff have been with the business for more than 20 years?
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A 14.5% staff tenure of over 20 years is considered exceptionally high in the current New Zealand labour market. Statistics New Zealand |
Jeff McGuire — 47 years, with 50 in sight
This year, Jeff McGuire has reached a milestone few achieve, clocking up an incredible 47 years with Humes in Christchurch at the Hornby manufacturing facility.
Jeff says his first job after leaving school, at age 17, was with Humes Hornby. His first role was as a floater, which meant he worked across all areas of the business. He says this gave him a broad range of experience across the site.
“Jeff is currently our KN (Reo Production) Machine Senior Operator,” says Craig Smith, Production Manager for Hornby. “Jeff consistently adds value to the wider team with his extensive experience across the entire site, having mastered all production areas here at Hornby.”
When asked why he has spent 47 years with the same company, Jeff says he has enjoyed the variety of work he has done and the strong team culture at Humes. Jeff says he hasn’t given much thought to stopping work just yet but likes the idea of reaching 50 years with Humes!
Dennis Crosby – 50 years in June
Dennis Crosby, currently a Precast Costing Estimator at the Papakura manufacturing plant, is approaching 50 years with Humes which is an extraordinary achievement.
“Although not entirely consecutive - after 18 months with Humes Papakura, Dennis left to work in the South Island before returning eight months later - his experience spans decades and many roles.”
“I’ve worked all over, particularly in precast,” says Dennis. “My overall knowledge of the industry led me to my current role in 2008. I now develop costings for special projects, estimating the time and resources needed to deliver for our customers.”
Chris Thorpe, Technical Services Manager, says: “Dennis is the perfect person for his role - his manufacturing knowledge is second to none.”
Reflecting on his long career, Dennis says it’s the people who have made the difference. “There have been ups and downs, as with any business, but I’ve enjoyed every role I’ve had at Humes and especially the people I’ve worked with. Being close to home is a bonus, too.”
Arnold Philips – 44 years with Humes in October
Currently a Leading Hand for the Hamilton Civil team, Arnold says he started his Humes career as a Labourer and worked his way up to being a Leading Hand. “I have worked in all areas for the Hamilton Civil site and have a good knowledge of how most things work around here.”
With lots of experience on his side Arnold says he often gets asked what he thinks about how to do something. “It’s nice that people and sometimes our bosses, come to discuss how we should do things.”
“I have been lucky to work with a lot of really good people over the years,” adds Arnold. “It’s like a big family here. If someone is away we will all step up to help cover. It’s a really good environment and I don’t plan to leave anytime soon.”
“Arnold is always happy and committed to put in the hard yards to get our products manufactured,” says Warren Allen, Production Manager, Hamilton Civil for Humes.
