1. What is your one trait which you think has led to your career success?
Having been with FedEx for 16 years and being given the opportunity to hold various positions within FedEx and in Asia Pacific, I feel that regardless of position held, one should never take people and success for granted and strive to do the best in everything we do.
2. What do you look for in young leaders?
People are our greatest asset and we believe in the value of teamwork. At FedEx, we have identified 9 leadership dimensions – charisma, integrity, intellectual stimulation, dependability, judgment, courage, respect for others, individual consideration and flexibility –as the key attributes of a good leader. Besides all theses attributes, I also look for the ability to deliver results by empowering others and in doing so unleashing their potential.
3. Best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have received is “to always walk the talk”. Loyalty and morale are built over time so we must consistently ‘walk the talk’ in real, tangible ways to reinforce the FedEx people-first culture.
4. What was one of your biggest challenges that you’ve faced in your career?
It is important to understand that each market is different. Having worked in Thailand, Hong Kong, the Philippines and Singapore, I’ve learned to be flexible and adaptable in my management style to suit local cultures. Taking the time to understand the local business customs and nuances helps build trust with customers and employees.
5. How can employees make a lasting impression on you at work?
Employees who consistently show the FedEx Welivetodeliver spirit — which means going above and beyond to make every FedEx experience outstanding for both internal and external customers — will make a lasting impression.
In fact, at FedEx, we have recognition programs. These include The Purple Promise Award for employees who demonstrate exceptional customer service. The Humanitarian Award recognizes employees for promoting human welfare above and beyond community responsibility.
6. What are some of your personal goals for yourself when it comes to your career?
I am continually learning and want to contribute to the organisation as much as I can. FedEx believes in mentoring employees and nurturing talent. I have personally benefitted from this and hope to carry on inspiring and mentoring employees and help them rise to the next level.
7. How do you develop your leadership skills?
Employee training and support is fundamental to FedEx. We believe in grooming our talent and empowering individuals across all levels so that everyone can succeed. I am a beneficiary of the numerous mentoring and leadership programs at FedEx. I also keep up the trends in management by reading.
8. What is the biggest business challenge you see in your industry now?
From a HR perspective, the biggest challenge facing the logistics industry is talent acquisition and retention. This is especially acute in Singapore, given the tight talent pool and volatile job market.
9. What drives your motivation at work?
It’s not all about business. The people and the team as well as the organisation’s commitment to contribute to the community by giving back to them, for example through volunteer work, are factors that motivate me and make my job even more fulfilling.