SSL, a company that has been a cornerstone of industrial development in Barbados and the Caribbean, is celebrating 50 years of bold vision, steel strength, and people power. The company has become synonymous with hurricane-resistant structures and has earned a reputation for combining rugged durability with custom craftsmanship tailored to the Caribbean’s unique challenges.
A Bold Vision from the Beginning
In 1975, Dr. Ralph ‘Bizzy’ Williams had a vision for a Barbadian company that would design and build hurricane-resistant structures. The late Right Excellent Errol Barrow, the father of Independence, shared Williams’ vision, saying, “We both saw a need for providing industrial developments and buildings for manufacturers, and we both knew it was important to have a local company that would be able to take it in the right direction.”
- SSL’s beginnings were modest, but its ambition was great.
- Williams’ vision was to create a company that would provide industrial developments and buildings for manufacturers, taking the Caribbean’s unique challenges into account.
- The company’s early success was built on the strength of its people, who shared Williams’ vision and were committed to delivering high-quality results.
The Strength of SSL’s People
Williams emphasizes the importance of his employees in the company’s success. “Our product is steel, but our strength is our people,” he says. “I believe in my people. They truly set us apart. You can’t run a custom design building company without employees who have your back, and I have their back the same way. Most of the employees are shareholders too, and while it is a unique business model, it is one of the ways to show how much I value their work.”
| Key Benefits | Description |
|---|---|
| Employee Share Ownership | SSL’s employees are also shareholders, demonstrating the company’s commitment to their well-being and success. |
| Shared Vision | The employees share Williams’ vision for the company, ensuring that everyone is working towards the same goals. |
| Value-Driven Leadership | Williams’ leadership style is built on values such as character and integrity, setting a high standard for the team. |
A Regionally-Focused Approach
SSL’s success extends beyond Barbados, with teams in St. Lucia and Jamaica, and exports to Montserrat. The company has received numerous awards, including the US Metal Building Component Manufacturers Association’s Commercial Building of the Year and multiple Exporter of the Year awards from the Barbados Industrial Development Corporation.
Awards and Recognition
- US Metal Building Component Manufacturers Association’s Commercial Building of the Year
- Multiple Exporter of the Year awards from the Barbados Industrial Development Corporation
- First export to Montserrat
Looking to the Future
Williams emphasizes that the company is in good hands, with an excellent CEO focused on efficiency and innovation. “The future looks bright and good, and I sleep well at night knowing that the legacy is safe,” he says.
Advice for Aspiring Business Owners
Williams emphasizes the importance of values in building a successful business. “Success is not just measured by balance sheets or business strategies but that it begins with your values. Building a business is a reflection of who you are as a leader. To truly become a businessman, you need character and integrity. Your actions must set the standard for your team, not just in how you manage the business but in how you build trust, foster respect, and lead by example. Aim to surround yourself with people who share your vision and can support your journey because no business can thrive on its own, and the principles you uphold will determine your long-term success.”
“Our product is steel, but our strength is our people.” – Dr. Ralph ‘Bizzy’ Williams
SSL’s 50-year journey is a testament to the power of bold vision, steel strength, and people power. As the company looks to the future, it is clear that its values, leadership, and commitment to its employees will continue to drive its success.
