‘I treat every day like my first’: Dubai yard worker becomes marketing officer

Dubai: While job-hopping has become a global trend among millennials and Gen Z professionals seeking to climb the career ladder, a 59-year-old Dubai resident has achieved workplace success by staying with the same company for 37 years.

Reflecting on his journey from yard worker to marketing officer, Alfred Britto takes pride in his work ethic, having taken only a handful of sick leaves throughout his long tenure at Ducab.

Get exclusive content with Gulf News WhatsApp channel

“When I first arrived here in 1987, I never imagined my life would unfold in such a successful way. I was just a young man seeking a better future, and my company gave me that opportunity,” he told Gulf News.

Britto’s career began in the yard as a production worker, where his tasks included unloading and loading materials, painting, and stenciling drums – duties that required precision, discipline, and teamwork. Though the work was physically demanding, he embraced the challenge with determination. His supervisors quickly recognised his dedication, and within a few years, he was promoted to roles such as machine operator, office assistant, and storekeeper. In 2008, he transitioned to the corporate communications department, travelling to more than 20 countries to promote Ducab on global platforms.

“This is the only job I’ve had, and the only company I’ve ever loved,” Britto said, recalling a brief stint at a recruitment firm in Mumbai after graduation.

Looking back at his early days at Ducab, Britto remembers a time when the company had just 45 employees, and they relied on typewriters and telex.

“I started in the era of typewriters and telex, then computers, emails, and Excel became the norm. Now, we use advanced software and technologies like artificial intelligence,” he said.

After 37 years, Britto still treats each day as if it were his first at the company.

“My father worked with the Tata Group for 33 years. I don’t feel like I’ve been here for 37 years. It feels as though I just joined yesterday. I treat every day like my first. There’s always something new to learn. We have a great working environment, a good work-life balance, appreciation for hard work, and no undue pressure.”

Despite his long tenure, he has taken only a few sick leaves and received recognition for his perfect attendance.

“I wake up early every day. I walk more than 10,000 steps daily. I rely on home remedies for any health issues,” he said.

Britto’s family lives in India, with his son working in Australia and his daughter studying in school.

Offering advice to younger generations, Britto said: “The younger generation has better facilities now. They should study well, gain hands-on experience, remain humble, and voice their opinions respectfully.”