At Falvey Cargo Underwriting Ltd., the employee-development program is more than a way to boost morale – it ensures the company will have qualified applicants for every possible opening.
Michael Falvey, president and CEO, saw the need for the program after losing several employees a few years back.
Falvey Cargo is an underwriter for Lloyds of London, with responsibility for insuring high-technology and life-science cargo. The Wakefield company employs 28 people in Rhode Island, several more in other American cities, one in London and one in Hong Kong.
The employee-development program Falvey put together outlines employee and employer expectations at the beginning of each year. He has regular meetings with each employee to discuss career goals and what tools are needed to achieve them.
Employees are also encouraged to take classes, with tuition reimbursements from the company for passing grades.
Falvey also arranges for employees to meet with outside brokers, surveyors and others in the field to gain knowledge of industry practices. Managers are also encouraged to act as mentors.
According to employees, the program is effective. “You’re never in the dark as to where you’re going,” said Matt Rebello, who works in the information technology department. “There’s a goal that we’re all striving toward.”
The CEO also emphasizes communication. The company uses corporate intranet postings and employee surveys. And everyone at the company meets with Falvey, not only one on one, but at regular monthly meetings. Even those in the overseas offices are expected to attend, via teleconference, and everyone is urged to speak up.
“The company will be moving to a new office in North Kingstown soon, and everyone who works here had input on the new building,” Rebello said. “They gave suggestions on wallpaper, chairs, you name it.”
To further encourage team development, the company hosts an annual outing to such destinations as Newport or Block Island for all employees and their families. Far-flung staff comes from London, Hong Kong, San Francisco and elsewhere to attend.
“It’s important that we all meet outside of business from time to time,” Falvey said.
Employees cite the benefits package as one more thing that makes Falvey Cargo a great place to work. The company pays 100 percent of medical coverage, dental coverage, long-term disability coverage and employee life insurance. Prescription drug coverage is not a separate plan but is covered under Blue Cross Blue Shield.
After one year on the job, employees receive 20 paid days off a year. In addition, there are 12 paid holidays.
And it’s not uncommon for parents to bring their kids to work when childcare arrangements fall through.
Said Rebello, “If there’s an emergency at home, it’s always family first.” •
