Port ‘thrilled’ at award win
Port of Auckland Ltd (POAL) has won the most improved performance category at the 2023 Deloitte Top 200 Business Awards.
The company beat two other finalists – Sky TV and Westland Dairy – to the prize that recognises an outstanding change in business performance.
The judges of the annual awards say POAL’s turnaround was achieved “by establishing effective strategies, the port has improved its financials, union relationships, health and safety practices and operational performance. Profits and revenue have skyrocketed.”
Roger Gray, the port’s chief executive officer, says the win provides further recognition that a company-wide strategy put into action 18 months ago is working.
“We are thrilled to receive this award. Safety, profitability, providing a great service for our customers, and delivering for Auckland Council and the region is at the core of what we do,” he adds.
POAL says its three-year regaining our mana strategy has brought notable early successes, including paying a $30 million dividend to its owner, Auckland Council, in the last financial year – almost double the figure paid a year earlier.
In June, the port also won the collaboration category at the Safeguard New Zealand Workplace Health and Safety Awards in recognition of its work with others to develop New Zealand’s first Stevedoring Code of Practice.
The latest award was presented to the company at a gala dinner in Auckland on December 6 that was attended by finalists and other guests.
Among the other winners in the Deloitte Top 200 Business Awards this year was Grant Webster, from Tourism Holdings Ltd (THL), who was crowned chief executive of the year.
THL was also one of three finalists vying for the company of the year gong, which was taken out by Xero.
