Edris Roach is a leader in a man's world

Monday, March 15, 2010

BEING the only woman in one's work environment can be a daunting prospect for many. Add to that the responsibility of supervising an all-male team, and the job just may cause massive stress levels.

However, there is one woman at Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort & Private Island (Montego Bay) who delights in her position as leader of the Sanitation Department's 20-member male squad.

Edris Roach, who many see as a mother figure at the resort, loves her boys and wouldn't have it any other way.

"My team and I have a dynamic bond. Our work culture may not be easily understood by onlookers, but we have always experienced a close relationship and we are like a family," she said.

Many at the luxury-included resort will tell you that Roach is the embodiment of dedication, career passion and excellent service delivery. The two-time 'Manager of the Year' possesses high work ideals for herself and leads her team with the application of the philosophy that, "it doesn't matter what job one does, it's simply how well one does it".

"I always reinforce the value of the work we do to my team because hygiene is a fundamental part of our operation. Periodic inspections are done by different agencies -- tour operators, Government bodies -- and if we don't meet the requirements then the hotel could receive varying levels of sanctions. And I won't allow that to happen," she adds.

With this mindset, her team has gone on to claim the coveted 'Department of the Year' title while individual team members have copped other prestigious resort awards through the years.

Similar to many great leaders, Roach has always taken a hands-on approach during her more than 25 years' hotel management experience.

"My leadership is democratic and very participatory. A good leader doesn't just say but does, and with the work that we do being manual, I ensure I work alongside them on assigned tasks. I also make sure that my team is motivated, so I listen to their concerns and invite their input on decisions regarding the hotel's operations and the team's welfare on a whole," she said.

She is looked upon as a manager with mettle; one who invests in her team and has cultivated a legion of professionals while also being ready to assist in areas outside of her department. She is a vessel of wisdom and knowledge about Sandals Resorts' operations which she uses to guide younger managers. Roach also works closely with the Environmental, Health & Safety Club and participates in Sandals Foundation's activities as frequently as possible.

Additionally, she has undergone numerous training sessions and courses offered through the resort chain and these have helped her become more knowledgeable and confident a leader. For this and other reasons, Roach readily encourages anyone to be a part of the Sandals family.

"The personal and professional benefits of being a Sandals team member far outweigh the long hours. You develop so much without even realising that you are. There is unlimited potential for growth as a Sandals team member."

Roach's typical day is a long one. It begins with a 7:00 am management briefing followed by a routine walk through the kitchen. She then briefs her team on the set tasks for the day and begins to tackle the day's goals -- her day is not likely to end before 10:00 pm.

"Through the day I am directing my team in maintaining hygienic standards in all areas under our jurisdiction, from scrubbing the floor to washing the pots, plates and utensils. I ensure all equipment are operating as they should and troubleshooting if there is a problem. Setting up for functions and special events also comes under my portfolio.

"My schedule may seem hectic and it's not without challenges. Yet, I can't say I don't love every minute of it. Plus I get the opportunity to meet people with from all over the world and I have met some wonderful guests along the way! I really love this job!" said the St James native.

Interestingly, while Roach truly loves working in tourism, her entry into the industry and Sandals Resorts was mere happenstance.

"I remembered accompanying a friend to what was then Royal Caribbean Hotel and I became curious about work in a hotel," she said. "I started out in housekeeping as a room attendant and was later promoted to linen room controller and then supervisor. Fifteen years later, then General Manager Carl Hendricks one day said, 'I'm moving you to Sanitation!' I have not regretted that move. So, at the beginning, I only just wanted to see what hotel work was like but it turned into a beautiful love affair."

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