The Philippines’ division of global technology and supply chain company Ingram Micro is no stranger to being recognized as one of Philippines Best Workplaces™, as they make the list for the second successive year.
Their response to Covid-19 was swift; within just 3 to 4 weeks of the unprecedented shutdown in Manila, the entire workforce was deployed remotely and equipped with nearly 2,000 new laptops, countless monitors and other work peripherals to enable 100% business resumption and support of their global stakeholders and clients.
Even as the company had to quickly adjust to the increased demand of their services during the pandemic, employee concern and support remained an utmost priority. Their global Leadership Team formulated a set of protocols that reflected their commitment in responding thoughtfully to the pandemic, which were cascaded down to country leaders.
This cross-organizational ‘guiding compass’ included a commitment to not eliminate jobs, manage new hires with flexibility, assess operational costs to ensure smooth sailing through potential financial impacts as well as to take care of employee welfare in a transparent and coordinated manner.
In addition to keeping their job security, existing employees enjoyed a wide range of benefits and work-from-home support, including being provided with office equipment and internet and electricity subsidies.
When it came to new hires, with nearly 300 new hires, no job offer was rescinded in 2020. The company even went the extra mile to offer financial assistance to employees who had to endure delayed start dates.
In a move that showcased empathy towards the psychological welfare of their people, Ingram Micro announced an expansion to their Employee Assistance Program to include comprehensive support for employees, their family members and even their housemates.
To further provide their employees with a sense of normalcy during the pandemic and support their personal growth, the company initiated the Learn from Home campaign, which included courses on Skillsoft and LinkedIn Learning that were extensively utilized and appreciated, along with several tool kits for leaders called Purposeful Leadership.
With the nation enduring a variety of challenges, a heavy focus was placed on community support under their CSR banner program called IM H.O.P.E. (Helping Others Progress and be Enriched). Working with NGO partners, at least seven fundraising and donation activities were completed, with monetary support going towards education, PPEs, hunger and disaster relief, amongst others.
Ingram Micro also focused on motivating and rewarding employees. In addition to launching their Life at Ingram Micro Community Blog and Life at Ingram Micro TV, the company also took full advantage of JIVE, the digital rewards platform launched 2 years ago to promote recognition and provide rewards to their associates.
While the country grappled with the pandemic, Ingram Micro ensured that camaraderie and engagement amongst their employees stayed at their highest via a comprehensive event calendar. Social events in 2020 included Pride Celebrations, ‘Fun-at-Home’ series of events and activities, ‘A Step into Greatness’ virtual celebration, a virtual Halloween Fright Fest (that featured Filipino folklore and mythological creatures!) and a 2-week Rise Up Holiday Fest that culminated in a Star Awards Night with fun activities such as a Lip Sync Battle and exciting raffle prizes.
In the midst of a challenging period, Ingram Micro held true to their values, proving once again to be a company devoted to supporting their associates in every way, giving them memorable experiences and providing them with a truly great workplace experience.
