The Gift of Sight
September 14, 2020
You Graduated Now What?
October 12, 2020The Gift of Sight
September 14, 2020You Graduated Now What?
October 12, 2020
“In 2013, we went to Haiti. Why? Logistics is a global business, but as a Caribbean company, a big asset is understanding business in the Caribbean.
In 2013, we went to Haiti. Why? Logistics is a global business, but as a Caribbean company, a big asset is understanding business in the Caribbean. We can compete here, and take risks that are not attractive to other companies. The thinking was to avoid the competition by locating in a place with high risk; and capitalize on the high potential for growth. It was a learning moment. We have since sold off our Haiti operations.
Our vision of the business is based is centered around PPT - People, Process and Technology. We hire the best and brightest; we offer young people every opportunity. We have paid attention to building a distinct RAMPS culture. This is a family business. Every office has a home cooked meal on Friday; suspended now because we are working away from offices. We are very proud of our Caribbean roots and ability to compete globally. Almost everything shipped in from anywhere has passed through our business: we serve oil and gas and industry; retail stores, manufacturers, groceries, pharmacies; you name it, we’ve seen it.
Our father, Ramnarine Rampersad, is Chairman of the board of the Trinidad-based holding company. His reputation and associations with longstanding clients served the company well. The business had a long time relationship with Maritime, for insurance and financing.
Of our founder’s three sons, two now run the business. Our brother, Dr Robbie Rampersad is an interventional radiologist, a medical consultant at Mt Hope. Among us, we now have a new generation that includes six grandchildren, five boys and a girl.
We are a young company with a big future. My hope is for the people of Trinidad and Tobago, especially those who work with us, to one day have a stake in RAMPS. Maybe one day, RAMPS may be listed on Regional Stock Exchanges.
I believe that the strength of a country is the strength of its business sector. Trinidad and Tobago is at an inflection point; there’s a ton of potential.
Our success has been built on giving hope and providing opportunities to the more than 600 people who call RAMPS their second home.
A family picture of the team that volunteered during the annual Kids Christmas treat 2019
Painting of the Cunupia Government Primary School for the new term in 2019.
The RAMPS 2019 Cricket Camp during the August vacation teaches kids the fundamentals of the game
Rudy Rampersad, Operations Director Ramps Logistics Ltd
Dad had always said do whatever you want. I really wanted to play sport, cricket or football but in the end I graduated in Business Management from UWI and joined the family business in 2007-2008.
While I was still at UWI, Shaun had started a small restaurant called The Ranch (now in a few malls) that specialized in barbecue, chicken, lamb and fish. The sauce was what drew people, Shaun’s special recipe. We are a cooking family; we love to cook and to try new things. So in addition to Family Fridays, the company’s internal engagements revolve around food: curry duck competitions, carnival cook ups, Christmas treats.
As Operations Director at RAMPS, I ensure that every job is done in the safest way possible and to the satisfaction of the customer. From procurement to warehousing and distribution, there are many moving parts and challenges at every step.
RAMPS functions as a technology company that moves people and packages. We develop and integrate our people and technology seamlessly. We are a one-stop shop for customers. We are the leading 3PL company (third party logistics provider) for many of our clients.
“I learned the business from the ground up. That’s how my Dad taught us"
I learned the business from the ground up. That’s how my Dad taught us. I cleared cargo, operated a forklift, packed warehouses and unpacked containers. We have built a business that now provides an opportunity for others to come in.
An offshoot of our logistics business is El Dorado Offshore (EDO) that provides manpower services for energy companies. We supply trained and certified crew members to many vessels. This was launched first in Guyana but is now offered in Trinidad.
Our real estate service company in Guyana, ORBIS Caribbean, sources accommodation/ housing for ex-pats working in any area and provides concierge services.
I think RAMPS has made itself adaptable in order to be part of building a Caribbean company which creates opportunities and values for young people.
Our extended family is the community in Cunupia, our home, the company’s base. Beyond Cunupia, we have developed family style programmes: the annual Christmas Treat for about 1300 children; an annual Cricket Camp and many more. We help families with children all year round. During the early Covid-19 lockdown, we helped families by enlisting volunteers who helped persons apply for the social assistance grants on offer.
RAMPS is a business, but it is also a family.