ICTSI LatAm managers completes operations training
Sixteen middle managers from ICTSI’s Latin America Region recently completed the Terminal Operations Management (TOM) Program—a two-week training designed to strengthen leadership and enhance day-to-day terminal operations. The ICTSI Global Academy developed and led the program, which combined technical instruction with strategic planning.
Marge Cuadera, ICTSI Global Academy head, and Angel Franco, CMSA Terminal Operations manager, facilitated the sessions, drawing from their hands-on operational experience.
Participants began the program by delivering presentations on their terminal gate operations. Topics included infrastructure, documentation, EDI messaging, customs coordination, and the use of Terminal Operating Systems. They also discussed the management of gate passes and exceptions through ticketing systems, using the exercise to evaluate efficiency and operational standards.
The program concluded with seven business improvement proposals, each addressing specific challenges from the participants’ home terminals. These proposals focused on revenue generation, productivity, waste reduction, and risk management—core areas linked to operational performance and sustainability.
Regional and terminal leaders attended the final presentations, including Juan Corujo, OPC chief executive officer; Juan Pablo Trujillo, TecPlata chief executive officer; and Anders Kjeldsen, ICTSI senior vice president and regional head – Latin America.
“If we’re not doing better tomorrow than yesterday, then why are we here?” Kjeldsen asked participants, emphasizing the need for continuous improvement. He also underscored the role of operations in ICTSI’s value proposition: “Safe and efficient operations are the product we sell. It’s fundamental—without it, we are nobody.”
Robin Cruickshanks, ICTSI vice president for Global Corporate HR, supported the program and continues to lead ICTSI’s capability-building efforts. Consultant Eric Bubeer contributed to the program design, offering strategic input based on his industry experience.
Participants returned to their terminals with new insights and practical tools to address operational challenges. ICTSI is reviewing their proposals for possible implementation across the region.
The TOM Program reflects ICTSI’s commitment to developing internal talent and building a performance-driven culture, with frontline leadership playing a key role in achieving operational goals.