Our HR department at Kerston foods is an integral part of our success as a business because it manages the people-related aspects that impact productivity, culture, and overall performance. Our HR function aligns the workforce with the company’s goals and ensures a positive and compliant work environment. We strive to create an environment where employees feel valued, supported, and motivated, ultimately contributing to their happiness and job satisfaction.
Happy employees
At Kerston Foods we prioritise employee’s happiness by making sure that their needs are understood, respected, and addressed, promoting a positive work environment where individuals feel valued, supported, and empowered to thrive both personally and professionally. Through professional development opportunities, and a focus on employee well-being, HR plays a crucial role in creating a workplace where employees can contribute their best efforts and experience a sense of fulfilment and job satisfaction.
Powering up the employees at Kerston Foods
- Professional Development Opportunities: At Kerston foods we provide opportunities for skill development and career growth. We offer training programs, mentorship opportunities, and career advancement paths to help employees achieve their professional goals. Employees can apply for financial assistance from the company to fund their training or course.
- Team Building: We organise regular social events, team-building activities, and employee outings. Building a sense of community and friendship contributes to a positive and inclusive workplace culture.
- Clear Career Pathways: Provide employees with a clear understanding of potential career paths within the organisation and discuss career development goals during performance management reviews and offer guidance on advancement opportunities.
- Succession Planning and Talent Management: HR engages and promotes succession planning to identify and develop future leaders within the organisation. Our strategic talent management approach ensures a pipeline of skilled individuals to fill key roles.
Sharing company policies and procedures
Distributing company policies to all staff is a crucial step in promoting transparency, clarity, and a unified understanding of the organisation’s expectations. To ensure that everyone is well-informed, the company policies will be shared through multiple channels, including:
- Booklet Form: A comprehensive employee handbook will be placed in the canteen, outlining the company’s policies, procedures, and guidelines in a user-friendly format.
- Share folder: Policies will be accessible through share folders on the computer that is placed in the canteen, allowing employees to conveniently review and reference them at any time.
- Email Communication: Important policy updates or reminders will be communicated via email to keep staff informed of any changes or pertinent information.
A Glimpse into the Future
As part of our ongoing efforts to cultivate a supportive and inclusive environment, we are delving into the possibility of implementing an innovative employee wellness program. Envisioned to create a healthier workplace, this program aims to enhance healthy employee behaviour, prioritise employee wellbeing, and ultimately boost overall team productivity.
- Future Wellness Programs: In our exploration of the future, we are considering the introduction of wellness initiatives that encompass various dimensions of health, including physical, mental, financial, and spiritual. The envisioned program is designed to encourage a healthy lifestyle among our employees, fostering holistic wellbeing.
- Future Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): As part of our commitment to employee support, we are investigating the potential implementation of Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs). These programs are designed to offer confidential counselling and support services to employees navigating personal or professional challenges. By exploring this avenue, we aim to provide a robust support system that ensures the wellbeing of our workforce.
Dirontsho Makulujane
HR manager
Kerston Foods
Meet this Month's Team Member
Lusinda Steyn – Junior Accounts Clerk
She became a valuable member of our team in January 2022 and swiftly integrated into the core of our accounts department and overall business operations. One of her key responsibilities involves fostering strong connections with both our suppliers and customer partners to facilitate seamless reconciliation of their accounts. Her proactive approach to cultivating relationships with customers is crucial in pre-emptively addressing potential concerns and preventing unnecessary queries and payment disputes. This dedication ensures the effective and smooth collection of outstanding funds owed.
What Her Colleagues Say About Her
“Lusinda is such a very valuable and dependable colleague . Having someone like her on our team makes a significant and positive impact on the working environment. Her willingness to help, her strong work ethics, and no-nonsense approach to keeping accounts clear are certainly a commendable quality to have . she brings a positive and friendly attitude to the workplace, making her not only a great professional but also a great person to interact with daily. “
“Lusinda started working at Kerston Foods in January 2022 and has since become an invaluable part of the Accounts department. I admire that she is always willing to take on new tasks/ challenges with positivity and a willingness to learn; that she never gives up; this applies to both her personal and work life.”
“Lusinda joined us in January 2022 with previous debtors experience in the food service industry. She arrived with a wealth of knowledge and immediately put that to use, adapting well to our collection culture and way of doing things. She hadn’t been with us long before showing an interest in expanding her role and she has since taken on a portion of the creditors function too, which she handles with the same enthusiasm and attention to detail as her debtors function. Lusinda is adaptable, eager to learn and always willing to assist in any way that she can. Lusinda also serves as a First Aider and a member of the Health and Safety Team. “
Lusinda Steyn
New Product Highlight
Mexicorn Gluten-Free Tortilla
We are thrilled to introduce the latest addition to our product lineup – the Mexicorn Gluten-Free Tortilla! Crafted with care and precision, these tortillas offer a delightful combination of flavour and dietary inclusivity. Specially designed for those with gluten sensitivities, the Mexicorn Tortillas bring the authentic taste of Mexico to everyone. Made from a blend of high-quality corn and gluten-free ingredients, each tortilla is a testament to our commitment to providing diverse, delicious options for all.
Enjoy the rich and savoury essence of Mexican cuisine without compromising on dietary preferences. It’s time to savour the gluten-free goodness.
In The Spotlight This Month
Why I do Business with Kerston Foods
Kerston is reliable, consistent and they make an effort to know you as a client.
They are good at communication with regards to back orders or out of stock items.
Drivers are well mannered and hard working. Very reliable in sourcing new items.
What’s Happening at the Radisson Red Hotel
As a culinary expert in the industry, we have been keeping ourselves busy with various activities and food options for our customers to enjoy.
During December we had live DJ’s every Friday, Saturday and Sunday on our Rooftop from 16hoo till late.
We had a variety of shows like The Summer Playlist that is headlined by Pascal & Pierce, Silent Discos and Corona Sunsets.
Our Christmas lunch was spectacular hosting a Vegan option in our downstairs restaurant and regular lunch on the Red Roof.
Angeline Jagman
ASSISTANT PROCUREMENT
RADISSON RED HOTEL
Our Social Responsibility Commitment
At Kerston Foods, we firmly believe that our commitment to social responsibility extends beyond the confines of our business, holding equal importance to the internal social efforts within our organisation. For nearly two years, the Kerston Foods team has established its own social committee, comprising of employees from various departments. This dedicated group of staff members invests their time and undertakes additional responsibilities to develop social initiatives aligned with our business values.
With a core team of approximately six members, they seamlessly execute staff events, social drives, and initiatives that reflect a level of dedication as if it were part of their daily responsibilities. We express our sincere gratitude to this team of staff members who collaborate, share ideas, and diligently implement initiatives. During the festive seasons, this remarkable team adorned our warehouse with festive decor and orchestrated a staff party complete with delectable treats, beverages, and lucky draws, exemplifying our appreciation for our staff.
We consider it a tremendous privilege at Kerston Foods to have staff members who go above and beyond their duties, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to creating a positive and inclusive workplace environment.
