Driving excellence through a strong company culture
Back to newsCulture – it’s a small word, but one with enormous impact.
Whether in our personal lives or at work, culture shapes how we behave, interact, and make decisions. At Anglo Ardmore, we often say that culture is what happens when no one is watching. It’s the instinctive way we act, solve problems, and work together every day.
While some may see “company culture” as a buzzword, for us, it’s foundational. It defines who we are and drives how we operate – from the bridge of the ship to the office ashore. It’s about doing the right thing, the right way.
Take a common challenge we face on board: if the engine room bilge tank is full and discharging through the OWS isn’t an option, the easy way out is never an option. Instead, we explore compliant alternatives – whether it’s using a barge to discharge ashore or transferring to another tank with proper permissions. This is where culture shines: ship and shore teams come together as one unit – one team, one goal, one conversation – to solve the issue safely and responsibly.
So, why does culture matter so much? Because it aligns us with a shared purpose. It creates an environment where people feel empowered to take ownership, strive for excellence, and uphold safety and integrity – especially under pressure. In a high-stakes industry like shipping, following procedures isn’t just about compliance. It’s about genuinely caring for our people, vessels, and the environment.
Open communication is another cornerstone of our culture. From senior officers to cadets, from shore staff to seafarers, we encourage everyone to speak up – to share ideas, raise concerns, and intervene when needed. Some of our best innovations have started as candid conversations in team meetings or suggestions in open forums.
But culture isn’t automatic. It must be actively nurtured. Every team member has a role in sustaining it – by showing up each day with a commitment to our values, taking responsibility for their actions, and holding themselves and each other to high standards.
We reinforce our culture by grounding it in our mission, vision, and values. These aren’t just statements – they guide everything we do, from everyday tasks to complex operations. Maintaining a strong culture requires continuous effort, with leadership on shore and at sea playing a crucial role.
Whether we’re tackling tough problems or celebrating small wins, our culture unites us. It transforms our company into something more: a community driven by purpose, care, and a steadfast commitment to doing the right thing.