Antigua and Barbuda – September 19, 2023 – The Antigua & Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA) is delighted to present the second installment of its “Unveiling Hospitality Professionals” series, featuring Andre Norton.
On August 1, 2023, Andre Norton achieved a significant milestone in his career by being appointed as the Port Facility Security Officer and Health and Safety Officer at Antigua Cruise Port. With more than fifteen years of dedicated service in the hospitality sector, Andre’s promotion was a well-deserved recognition of his commitment and expertise in ensuring the smooth operations of the Antigua Cruise Port.
In the bustling months of the Cruise tourism season, numerous vessels grace our shores. However, few truly grasp the intricate technical aspects involved in the security and safety of docking these massive vessels. Andre Norton is among the select few who possess this specialized knowledge. Each arriving vessel is meticulously inspected by a team of local professionals, including Andre, in collaboration with representatives from the Ministry of Tourism, Customs and Immigration, and local cruise brokers. They meticulously review and inspect all of the ship’s documents, including passenger and crew counts, as well as equipment, before granting clearance for passengers and crew to disembark.
Similar to the stringent protocols at the V C Bird International Airport, every individual entering Antigua and Barbuda must be accounted for and approved for entry. The team responsible for boarding the cruise ship plays a pivotal role in upholding the destination’s safety and security.
Andre Norton takes immense pride in his role and describes his job as a daily reminder of the paramount importance of safety and security. He emphasizes, “Every day I step into the Heritage Quay area, I am reminded of the significance of enforcing rules over personal relationships.” With this unwavering commitment to discipline, he meticulously executes his responsibilities, both during the boarding of cruise ships and in his role of minimizing or mitigating the risks of accidents, work-related illnesses, and injuries in the workplace. Andre also actively contributes to enhancing safety compliance by developing new protocols and strengthening existing health and safety policies.
The ABHTA is honoured to illuminate the diverse roles within the hospitality industry and hopes that these weekly spotlights will serve as a source of inspiration for the next generation of professionals aspiring to hold key positions in the industry.
About the Unveiling Hospitality Professionals Project
Discover the vibrant tapestry of Antigua and Barbuda’s hospitality industry through the Unveiling Hospitality Professionals Series. Over the coming weeks, we will illuminate the remarkable journeys of individuals immersed in various sectors, such as hotel operations, taxi services, yachting, tours, and vendor businesses.
Commencing on September 12, 2023, this captivating project will unveil one inspirational narrative each week, leading up to the grand celebration of Tourism Week in December. These narratives will shine a spotlight on the exceptional success stories that define the heart and soul of our nation’s hospitality sector.
Join us on this transformative journey as we delve into the lives of those who have dedicated themselves to the art of hospitality. Let their stories inspire, move, and enlighten us, as we celebrate their unwavering passion and dedication to creating unforgettable experiences for all who visit Antigua and Barbuda.
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About the ABHTA
The ABHTA collectively represents the hospitality industry by educating, advocating and promoting to increase visitation and the economic benefits for Antigua and Barbuda. The primary focus is on the needs and best interests of the members of the Association. The membership of the Antigua & Barbuda Hotels & Tourism Association is open to all hotels, restaurants, airlines, and companies directly or indirectly involved in the tourism sector of Antigua and Barbuda. Joining the Association is a way of showing your support of the island’s tourism product and helping us to further develop our tourism industry.