Manager Helps Usher in Next Chapter at Plant

(Oct 19, 2009) The Port Wentworth refinery this week will install the last of several Extra Fine Granulated new packaging machines following the plant-wide rebuild.

Port Wentworth, Ga plant manager Thomas Rathke

Plant manager Thomas Rathke, who will celebrate one year at Imperial Sugar Company next month, says he’s impressed with how far the refinery has come, but has his eyes set on how far the company has to go.

“Following the explosion, we know we’ve had to reestablish trust with employees, customers and investors,” Rathke says. “It takes time to build credibility. We must talk openly and honestly with all. That’s what building customer loyalty is all about.”

Rathke doesn’t hesitate when asked what attracted him to Imperial Sugar. “For the challenge,” he says. “This is a great opportunity to be part of something that I certainly hope will be here another 100 years.”