Alba employees' team spirit, problem solving skills and commitment to the company's future were praised by the newly-appointed chief executive Laurent Schmitt.

He expressed confidence that Alba's determination to remain a competitive aluminium smelter dedicated to operational efficiency remains on track, and has the full and active support of Alba's employees.

'What really impressed me was that throughout each department there is a concerted effort towards continuous improvement and operational efficiency,' Schmitt said at the conclusion of his two-week familiarisation tour of the plant.

'It is not just a matter of theory but an intrinsic part of the work culture.

'Everyone is involved in the decision-making process, and the SMART centres have played a key role in making this happen.

'They have created a sense of involvement and participation in fulfilling departmental objectives.

'With Alba's 40 years of experience in the aluminium industry, this is a strong base for the future improvements that Alba will have to make happen in order to consolidate its leadership position and to secure future growth opportunities.'

Schmitt conducted a two-week familiarisation tour around the plant and visited the Marine facilities, Calciner Plant, Power Plant, Potlines, Casthouses, Carbon Plant, R&D, Engineering and several other important departments supporting the operations.

He was briefed on the strengths, challenges and achievements of each of the departments by their respective managers, and also participated in an interactive question and answer session with managers, section heads and other employees.-TradeArabia News Service