SYKES Year-End 2013: A Celebration of the SYKES Spirit through Music

If music is the universal language, then all 7,000 SYKESers spoke as one last December 15. Taking a page from Coachella, the theme for this Year-End Celebration was Music Festival. SMX was transformed into an indoor concert grounds as the stage was set for six of the biggest names in the music industry. One couldn’t help but feel the excitement as SYKESers entered the venue to rock on! 

Setting the mood for the party was our very own Misc Bands. Crimson n’ Claire and Misc All-Stars gave us the taste of what to expect for the rest of the evening. Opening the program was the internationally acclaimed STOMP dancers. With their rock-solid beat and energetic choreography, the room was filled with enthusiasm and positive energy! 

And just when you thought things couldn’t get more exciting, our very own Dean Van Ormer (Vice-President for Philippine Operations) took center stage “What I love about SYKESers is your passion,” Mr. Van Ormer opened. “You have always shown great passion in and out of work. That is why we had such a great 2013. This year, we have shown the industry why we are THE pioneer in the call center industry. This year, we created another milestone and set higher standards for others to follow – the launching of our Glorietta site,” He further shared. “SYKES Glorietta is the first call center office that offers highly-supportive facilities from the lighting, the chairs downright to the design. We will apply such principles to our other sites here in the Philippines,” 

Mr. Van Ormer added. “Our performance remains to be outstanding and we have you guys to thank for that – Your commitment to excellence, your hard work and your loyalty is truly inspiring. That is why tonight, we celebrate you. Tonight, I hope you enjoy our way of saying thank you.” “Speaking of thanks, I would like to say thank you for the help and support you have extended to the victims of the typhoon. Together, we have raised almost 2 Million Pesos to help rebuild the provinces of Tacloban, Leyte and Samar. You have truly shown what SUPPORT means. I am proud to be working with each and every one of you.” 

With such inspiring words, the party continued. What made this Year-End Celebration extra special is the 10th or fast-turnover of employees. However, SYKES has proven that there is career growth and security in the industry. More than 200 SYKESers were recognized for their commitment, loyalty and service. Seven of them have actually been with SYKES for the past 15 years. Mr. Mike Henderson, the Senior Vice-President for Regional Operations in Asia Pacific, and a 15th behalf of all the awardees. “People are often surprised when they find out that I have been with the same company for the past 15 years. And often, they ask me: why? My answer is simple: I like working here. SYKES has become more than just a company. SYKES has become a partner. SYKES has become a family.” 

Another big surprise in this year’s celebration is the awarding of a brand new car to the lucky SYKESer! Earlier this year, SYKES launched an Employee Referral Program Promo. The top referrers for the entire year had the chance to compete for a Mitsubishi Mirage. Now, this is how you end 2013 in style! and 15th year Service Awards. Call Centers have a reputation year-awardee himself, spoke a few words on And the prizes just kept on rolling! The SYKES Outdoor Club won the Choices of the Year Award. Choices is the group of all the interest clubs in SYKES. The winner was determined by how much the club exemplified SYKES’ Unique Culture of Support. Mr. Ernie Cabaneros received the award for the group. “We would like to thank SYKES for supporting us in our activities and endeavors. It’s rare that you find a company that does not only allow you to pursue your passion, but also encourages and support you to just 

Of course, what is a music fest without music? This was the first time In SYKES history that six mainstream bands graced the Year-End Celebration. Starting the lineup was the  crowd-favorite Up Dharma Down! For a good old rock n’ roll flavor, there was the playful  Giniling Festival. Then came one of the most popular rock bands in the country today; Kamikazee. After one full set of headbanging, the crowd was serenaded by the cool and  calming voice of Ebe Dancel. For the Indie lovers, there was the up and coming Save Me Hollywood. Closing the night was the feel-good Itchyworms!

Six bands. Six genres. One fantastically entertained crowd.The Year-End Celebration is one of the events to watch out for in SYKES. This is the company’s way of coming together as one family and celebrating this year’s achievements. This is also the company’s way of looking forward to another fruitful and exciting year together.