Turbocharging the way we engage with stakeholders

Environment: Harwich Haven Authority

Like many organisations, HHA is split into numerous departments, all working hard to enhance the Haven’s position as Britain’s gateway to the world of trade. But we identified that prioritising employee, community and customer strategies would foster greater awareness and understanding.

That’s where my role came in.

My job was created to bring both external and internal communications under one directorate, alongside people and culture (HR), stakeholder engagement, and business planning and strategy. While that might sound like a lot for any one person to take on board, by working together our teams have delivered exceptional results.

The importance of strategy

In our latest annual report – published in June – we outlined our four new values:

• Making safety the standard.
• Connecting as one team.
• Leading with expertise.
• Creating positive impact.

Together, these values aim to create a safe and vibrant environment that enables both trade and leisure throughout the Haven. Our work now is to ensure both new and existing strategies are crafted or adapted to meet those needs.

Our network of stakeholders is vast, ranging from employees to the world’s biggest shipping lines, with everyone from fishermen to yacht owners in between. All have a right to use the Haven, and it is our job to keep them safe. Likewise, it is our duty to ensure they feel heard, engaged and valued. But with so many stakeholders to consider, crafting successful strategies is no easy task.  

Fresh plans have included communications and engagement schemes, while excellent customer service remains our priority, improving relations and supporting our ports to attract and retain global trade customers – but that’s not all. We also give back to our local community, organising coastal discovery sessions for schoolchildren, lobbying our local MPs, donating to local organisations and hosting community events.

Why does an organisation of our stature put such an emphasis on engagement?

For a start, when it comes to our most important stakeholders (our people), a supported workforce leads to higher productivity, reduced sickness and lower employee turnover. We want our people to feel valued, happy and safe at work – and a recent survey suggests we are achieving that.

Meanwhile, for those who use the Haven, it ensures all enjoy the same rights and understand the importance of safety and the preservation of our environment.

Overall, by focusing on engagement with our stakeholders, we are demonstrating that we care about our responsibilities as a trust port – and that gives us a stronger foothold to succeed.