AsiaBizStories - Entrepreneurs in Action

Morten Damgaard Andersen Watch the Video Podcast here https://youtu.be/FNR6PSj-CJE Morten Damgaard Andersen talks on "Leadership Perspectives: Navigating Multicultural Environments," in this podcast and also available as a video podcast Morten as a seasoned leader shares insights on emotional intelligence, effective communication, and cultural competence in diverse workplaces. In this episode, we explore how self-awareness contributes to a leader's emotional intelligence. Morten has over 25 years of experience in Asia's dynamic business landscape, and emphasises the importance of understanding one's own emotions, strengths, and weaknesses to make informed decisions and empathise with others. Delving deeper, he adds the potential drawbacks of overemphasising emotional intelligence and how leaders can balance competing priorities without succumbing to procrastination. Our guest's practical approach involves committing to action and engaging in open dialogue with peers and team members. Next, Morten examines the role of cultural competence in managing diverse behaviours. He emphasises the need to understand cultural norms and communication styles to foster effective collaboration across multicultural teams. Moving forward, we explore the key components of a leadership style that resonates with team members in multicultural environments. From having a clear vision and effective communication to setting non-negotiable behaviours and demonstrating authenticity, Morten shares invaluable insights on inspiring and empowering teams to achieve success. Join us for an enriching conversation that delves into the nuances of leadership in multicultural settings. Subscribe now at "AsiaBizStories.com: Entrepreneurs in Action" via audio only or on Google video podcast for actionable strategies and thought-provoking discussions with seasoned leaders. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 00:54 How does self-awareness contribute to a leader's emotional intelligence? 02:59 So based on that are there any potential drawbacks or challenges associated with an overemphasis on emotional intelligence and leadership? 08:54 In what situations can adapting to diverse behaviours lead to a more effective communication? Can you give us and example of situations? 10:54 How do you avoid making excuses that allow you to avoid making decisions and taking actions? 14:05 So what role does cultural competence play in understanding and managing diverse behaviours? 20:20 What are the key components of a leadership style that resonates with team members, considering multiculturalism? 26:51 Contact details on LinkedIn Morten Damgaard Andersen

Goh Sok Koon Goh Sok Koon is a company secretary a vital role in any business in Singapore. I am fortunate to have met her as she has been extremely helpful to me in getting my business up and running. Even before that, I was trying to get her to appear here on this podcast. By her own admission she has been reluctant, preferring like many people to work diligently in the background of the many businesses that she is a part of. But as a business founder of her own, specifically Lioness Corporate Services, and additionally as she plays a more active role in business groups she is a member of she now feels ready and the need to appear on her first podcast. As well as: Goh Sok Koon introduces herself as a company secretary for Lioness Corporate Services with over five years of experience. Describes the importance and main role of a company secretary for a businesses in Singapore. Qualifications required to become a company secretary depend on whether one is an accountant or a lawyer, with a usual completion time of two to three years. The route taken to become a professionally qualified company secretary in Singapore Reasons for moving to Singapore and the impact it had on her career. Changes that need to be kept up with in order to be a successful company secretary in Singapore. What are the additional important areas that need to be understood beyond the core duties of a company secretary. Key advice entrepreneurs need before starting a business. What makes a good company secretary. Goh Sok Koon hopes for her business in the future. The extended role of reminding directors and CEOs of their obligations and providing guidance and support. The benefits of Business Development Society, a supportive networking group focused on learning and sharing experiences. How her experience and knowledge gained as a business owner help her assist others, especially foreigners, in starting businesses in Singapore. The enjoyment from her job demonstrates how in depth Sok Koon is willing to go to help people understand the process of starting a business and providing guidance along the way. Contacts and Links Mentioned: Goh Sok Koon on LinkedIn Business Development Society website Podcast Show Notes: [Introduction] (00:00.0) Neville J McKenzie introduces the podcast Sok Koon, Goh Sok Koon, a company secretary. Mention of Sok Koon's helpfulness in getting the Neville's business up and running. Mention of Sok Koon's initial reluctance to appear on the podcast. Question 1: Can you introduce yourself? (00:57.7) Sok Koon introduces herself as a company secretary for Lioness Corporate Services. Mention of her experience in the field for over five years. Previous work experience as a company secretary in small firms. Question 2: Tell us about your job as a corporate service executive or company secretary, which do you prefer? (01:20.0) In Singapore, Sok Koon’s role is typically referred to as company secretary. Main role is to ensure businesses comply with legal requirements and regulations. Responsibilities include ensuring compliance with company laws, preparing financial statements, submitting tax returns, and assisting different types of business entities. Question 3: How important is the role of a company secretary? (02:59.0) Company secretary is an important role recognized in the company's act. Every company in Singapore must appoint a company secretary. Duties involve ensuring compliance with regulations and providing advice to the board of directors. Question 4: How long does it take to qualify as a company secretary? (03:54.4) Time required to qualify depends on whether the individual is an accountant or a lawyer. Generally, it takes two to three years to complete the necessary course. Recent changes in the syllabus allow individuals to obtain a certifica...

Neville J McKenzie Neville J McKenzie the usual host of AsiaBizStories Entrepreneurs in Action is asked the questions by Chris Pardey the lead of the Brunel Alumni Association, Singapore . Neville grew up in London. At school he wanted to be a scientist but became a Radar Test Engineer after gaining an HND in Electrical and Electronic Engineering. He then moved into the world of Information Technology Systems as a Field Engineer, before leaving work to study a degree in Computer Studies with Business Studies. Up until this point he played volleyball first as a junior international and then as a senior international for the England. After graduating He worked for 10 months before the Dot-Com crises forced him out of work in October 2001. In February 2002 he was teaching in China where I remained for over fourteen and half years before moving to Singapore in 2016 where he now resides. As well as: Discussion of the cultural differences between China and Singapore and the personal difference of becoming an entrepreneur in China. The hopes and dreams for the future in Singapore. Neville talks about his involvement with the Brunel Alumni Association in Singapore and how it helps him network and connect with people who have a common connection. Neville explains his podcasting journey, how he started in 2014 in China, and how it is evolving into a business. Helping the Brunel Alumni Association, Singapore to win the Alumni Association Award of the Year by committing to podcasts, has now led to being nominated for the International Alumni of the Year award. The events in the decision to pursue a degree after seeing an education shop while driving leading to acceptance to study Computer Studies with Business Studies from 1997 to 2000 at Brunel University. Neville talks about his experience playing volleyball for England, coaching, and the impact it had on his career as an engineer. Insights into his start and end in coaching in China but none in Singapore. Neville J McKenzie on LinkedIn Chris Pardey on LinkedIn Brunel Alumni Singapore Web page Brunel University Alumni Web page Show Notes: Title: Asia Biz Stories: Entrepreneurs in Action (Partnered with the Brunel Alumni Association Singapore) Host: Chris Pardey Guest: Neville J McKenzie Introduction: [0:00:00 - 0:03:45] - Neville J McKenzie introduces himself as the guest on the podcast. - Mentions his background growing up in London, pursuing a career in engineering, and later transitioning to Information Technology systems. - Talks about his experience playing volleyball for England and his move to China in 2002 to teach. Living and Working in Singapore as an Entrepreneur: [0:03:45 - 0:09:20] - Neville discusses the cultural change he experienced after moving to China and how he enjoyed the teaching and learning opportunities there. - Compares his life in China to his life in Singapore, stating that Singapore feels like a combination of Shanghai and the UK for him. - Shares his perspective on Singapore being a favourable place for starting a business and entrepreneurship but personally finding China more suitable for individualistic endeavours. - Talks about his unconventional education path and how it shaped his entrepreneurial journey. Hopes and Dreams for the Future: [0:09:20 - 0:14:40] - Neville expresses his desire to stay in Singapore and mentions that going back to the UK doesn't appeal to him. - Discusses the challenges of networking and making friends in Singapore compared to China. - Highlights the importance of the Brunel Alumni Association in providing a common connection and affinity among members. - Mentions specific conversations with Stanley, CJ, Kelly, and Lawrence, sharing his curiosity and interest in their journeys. Contribution to the Brunel Alumni Association: [0:14:40 - 0:17:10] - Chris acknowledges Neville's contribution to the association through his podcasting work.

Kelly Shan Guojiao Kelly Shan is an experienced healthcare professional in the areas of nursing and public health. She started as a scrub nurse in the operating theatre before transferring to a pre-operative anesthesia assessment clinic, "after a few years in the Outpatient Clinic you realize that a lot of even higher education background you know even there are lawyers or teachers they don't have much knowledge about what is the meaning of the blood pressure the two numbers right so they do not understand what is the meaning or about diabetes they don't really know much even they have higher educations “ This inspired her to take a specialist diploma in nutrition and health promotion and pursue a Master's in public health and health promotion at Brunel University in the UK. After returning to work in Singapore, Kelly is now looking for a career change to expand her horizons further. She has elicited the help of the Brunel Alumni to help her with this. “I would just send a message in a group I didn't really expect any reply but yeah Mario is one of our member I think that afternoon he messaged me for a quick call yeah to just know a little bit more what I want to do because he's the international head of HR department” This conversation is the seventh in the pilot for the Brunel Alumni Association (Singapore). The format is based on Entrepreneurs in Action and we are looking to evolve it into a stand-alone podcast series focused on Brunel Alumni based in Singapore Send your ideas and suggestions to me on LinkedIn, or in person at the next Brunel Alumni Association meetup in Singapore So now without further delay lets begin Kelly Shan Guojiao on LinkedIn Kelly Shan Guojiao on XiaoHongShu Kelly Shan Guojiao on Instagram Brunel Alumni Association Webpage

CJ Tan CJ Tan is a regular member of the Brunel Alumni Association. He has extensive experience in manufacturing and quality management, including start-ups and high-volume production. He is skilled in building quality systems and ensuring the safety of employees and the environment. CJ has led initiatives to improve quality company wide and worked closely with manufacturing partners to maintain quality standards. He actively engaged with customers to support their engineering and quality initiatives. “It is true you know you always been treated as a bad guy in the the company a stopper in a company right and then when the quality is not right we tend to be more aggressive and stop the production from going on” He has worked in QA for some of the biggest names in the Semiconductor industry. CJ’s last role as a quality director ended in 2016. After taking some time out he started a fresh new career as a realtor (CJ Tan, Realtor). His motto is “Customer Comes First”. “semiconductor Manufacturing in Singapore there is less and less uh jobs or rather demand for the kind of skill set that I have you know there are jobs out in the market but outside for the kind of skill set that I have” CJ Tan is the second in this series to have graduated from the Henley Brunel MBA Program. Contacts and Links Mentioned: CJ Tan on LinkedIn CJ Tan ERA Realtor on Facebook Brunel Alumni Association Webpage

Stanley Mak Stanley Mak is a regular member of the Brunel Alumni Association Experienced entrepreneur with a rich history of working in the marketing and communications industry. Skilled in Inbound Marketing, Digital Marketing and Integrated Marketing Communications. With an MBA from the Henley Brunel MBA Program. Originally from Hong Kong he moved with his then employer to Singapore in 1986. Eventually the desire to build his marketing own company took over. Today he leads iSmart Communications. He has successful navigated the innovations that have radically changed marketing and has an insatiable appetite for innovations to come. “and then in the second and third year the business really boomed then I said wow Hallelujah never look back then during the.com boom period I I saw the opportunity of the internet” He was also Vice-president of the Hong Kong – Singapore Business Association. He was the original president of the Henley Brunel MBA Alumni Association which which has now been renamed to the Henley Alumni Association and no longer affiliated to Brunel University. “some people even say that why don't you become president forever I said no no no I don't want I'm not Lee Kuan Yew I don't want to be become a president for life” His outside interests include being a keen language learner based on his professional languages use and recreational travel. Contacts and Links Mentioned: Stanley Mak iSmart Communications. Brunel Alumni Association Introduction and Background [00:00.7] Stanley Mak is a member of the Brunel Alumni Association with a background in marketing and communications. He moved from Hong Kong to Singapore in 1986 and eventually started his own marketing company, iSmart Communications. He has successfully adapted to the changing marketing landscape and has a passion for innovation. Starting iSmart Communications [02:05.5] Stanley shares how he transitioned from working in multinational advertising agencies to starting his own business. The initial years of the business were challenging, but it eventually boomed. Recognising the potential of the internet, he made the decision to switch from traditional advertising to digital marketing. Despite lacking a background in computer engineering, Stanley partnered with a computer engineer to complement his expertise. Adapting to Industry Changes [08:00.1] Stanley discusses the changes and challenges faced by the marketing industry, particularly due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He highlights the high costs of operations in Singapore and the need to find innovative solutions to maintain profitability. Outsourcing and working with partners in other countries became a strategy to control costs and provide quality services. Stanley predicts a major shakeout in the industry and believes that digital marketing will continue to be a driving force. Henley Brunel MBA and Alumni Associations [15:04.6] Stanley shares his educational background, starting with his accounting qualification and then pursuing an MBA with Henley Brunel in Singapore. He discusses the differences between the Henley and Brunel alumni associations, including their demographics and focus. Stanley expresses his admiration for Chris, the founder of the Brunel alumni, and his active involvement in both associations. Language Learning and Community Involvement [21:21.1] Stanley reveals his passion for learning languages and how it has enabled him to communicate with people from different countries. He mentions his current focus on learning the local dialect Hooken and the Filipino language. Stanley emphasises the importance of community involvement and voluntary services in building networks and friendships. Contacting Stanley Mak [24:12.8] Stanley mentions that he is active on LinkedIn and encourages people to connect with him there. He expresses his willingness to share experiences...

Chris Pardey Chris Pardey is the Brunel Alumni Association Representative in Singapore. Chris grew up and was educated in the UK. He has spent over 40 years working in the commodities industry. Spending 20 years with one company, working in the UK, Switzerland and Germany. His move to Singapore saw him eventually being in the right place at the right time co-investing in a company and taking the role of CEO/Director. “the banks like to spread their risk em and so it's you know so it I think our Peak we were we were borrowing around 350 million dollars” After cashing in, again, at the right time, he is currently Head of Agribusiness at R1 International PTE LTD. From the beginning he has been a sports enthusiast starting as Captain of the Brunel University Football team and member of the Cricket Team, he now makes time to watch sports of all kinds. He links his work, love of sport, Brunel Alumni Association and current students to his charity work as Trustee with the Bali Sports Federation. “So it’s basically been my initiative with Brunel but it's partly what the University alumni is looking to achieve in terms of providing work experience opportunities for students ” As Well As: 0:02:05 Chris Pardey introduces himself. 0:02:10 Over 40 years of experience in the commodity business and living in Singapore since 2005. 0:02:21 His passionate for sports and involvement in charitable activities in Indonesia. 0:02:31 Becoming the Brunel alumni representative in Singapore. 0:03:13 Chose an international career for job opportunities and to experience Asia. 0:03:40 Passionate about football and cricket, ran a football team in Singapore. 0:05:09 President of Brunel Alumni Association. 0:05:35 Creating the association and the connection to Brunel's 50th anniversary and his reason. 0:09:44 His commitment to the Bali Sports Foundation, and the provision of sports opportunities for disadvantaged individuals in Bali. 0:10:38 Creating the link between Brunel and BSF. 0:11:20 The role for Brunel students within BSF from 2016, and the two years due to COVID-19. 0:12:16 The commitment BSF places on students for the charity and helping disabled individuals in Indonesia. 0:18:35 Chris’s after university, selected based on his involvement in sports. 0:18:57 His Work for 20 years in Geneva, Germany, and the UK, before he moved to Singapore. 0:19:01 Investing in RCMA with two colleagues, a commodity business and taking the role of CEO then selling in 2018 to a Chinese company. 0:19:46 Getting lucky and diversifying into other products and services 0:20:33 His current role working for another Chinese company. 0:21:58 The risk involved in taking on the role of CEO and learning along the way. 0:23:44 Why the business needed to deal with the 12 different banks. 0:24:52 Asking for money from the banks, relationships and not being nervous. 0:27:20 The reasons for selling and the outcomes for everyone involves. 0:28:17 Being able to walk away from the business. 0:28:40 Thanks to Chris for a great chat 0:28:42 If you have interest in the Brunel Alumni Association, are a Brunel student looking to get involved with the Bali Sports Foundation reach out to Chris on LinkedIn or visit the webpage. Contacts and Links Mentioned: Brunel Alumni Association Bali Sports Federation Yaya San kahaya Mutiara Ubud

Ben Clark Ben Clark in 2010 whilst on a break from training for the London Olympics as a swimmer dove into the sea and broke his neck changing his life forever. Despite having 75% of his body paralysed he was determined to not let it defeat him and set out to live his life to the full. That thinking led him to Adapt To Perform which Ben started as a way to help himself and others get fit and healthy no matter their circumstances, a first of kind! "also make sure they've got the right equipment and the right trainer on the door and so that if somebody comes along they're not just “umming and ahing” what to do they are there to be like oh welcome we've got a we've got a program this guy knows how to show you around the gym tell you what you can do Etc…" Adapt To Perform is now the world's largest resource of adapted fitness helping over 10,000 individuals all over the world live their life to the fullest. Ben does this all through content creation via both the Adapt To Perform website and social media. Which now reaches places he didn’t expect or plan for "but I realized quickly that it went out to multiple places in the world and it was helping people that were in very very different situations to myself despite having the same disability so they would be maybe in India Indonesia even in parts of Africa or in the Middle East ??" This conversation is the third of a new venture with the Brunel Alumni Association (Singapore). The format is based on Entrepreneurs in Action and we are looking to evolve it into a stand alone podcast series focused on Brunel Alumni based in Singapore Send your ideas and suggestions to me on LinkedIn, or in person at the next Brunel Alumni Association meetup in Singapore one final thing at around five minutes 40 seconds I asked Ben about the accident, he does go into some details so if you are of a sensitive nature please skip forward to around seven minutes 45 seconds where I ask him about his recovery. Due to possible editing changes please visit the website for more accurate details so now without further delay let's begin As Well As: 00:00 Introduction 02:35 Ben’s life before his accident 03:41 The event and sport Ben trained for 05:01 Was Ben the kind of athlete that needed to be pushed or did he push himself? 05:41 the accident: what happened and the effect it had after thinking his life was over 06:39 What saved his life? 07:43 After the accident and the obvious changes, rehab, the new challenges and swimming 09:31 The next swimming goal to make the Great Britain Paralympic Swimming Team 2012? 09:56 How the Stable Disability rule was missed. 11:07 The low point in around 2015? 12:57 Re-evaluation based not on role but higher values and becoming a coach? 13:30 The thought process behind becoming a coach, and success or failure? 15:41 Taking the discovery that there was an empty niche and the desire to progress with it further 17:48 Origin of the name of the company Adapt to Perform? 18:39 Funding Adapt To Perform 20:11 The biggest challenge for Adapt To Perform? 22:44 The surprise after the start of Adapt To Perform? 24:35 The future of Adapt To Perform 27:56 Ben’s and Adapt to Perform’s involvement with with Brunel University? 29:13 Posting the Bali trip on your YouTube channel? 29:59 How people can contact you? 31:09 Next episode Chris Pardey who is the Singapore Alumni Association president and Trustee of the Bali Sports Federation BSF Contacts: Ben Clark on LinkedIn Adapt To Perform on Instagram Adapt To Perform on FaceBook ali_and_benji on Instagram

Mario Ferraro Mario Ferraro is a thought leader in the area of Global Talent Management and an active member of the Brunel Alumni Association, Singapore He moved to Singapore in 1998 But his unusual journey began in 1987. At the age of 18 one week after graduating from secondary school he moved on his own from Italy to the UK. Mario had no job and spoke very little English. His early jobs were for basic survival and during his commute he began reading books on physics. His interest grew, and In 1987 he enrolled to study a degree in physics at Brunel University. Mario’s first job after graduating required him to use his physic knowledge but a gradual shift towards the people within organisations occurred. "Because you know you will have the best idea in the world If you don't have the people to execute it in the right place, at the right cost, at the right time. It’s just not going to happen. The world is full of great ideas which were never properly implemented…" However, his physics training was and still is an important part of the approach Mario takes in his role. When I think of how my physics interest and my physics background has help me throughout this, is I have found so many parallels and so many similarities between the laws of physics and what I observe in individuals in organisations and in societies in general. So now without further delay let's begin As Well As Introduction Early life in UK, basic jobs interest in physics, interview and starting at Brunel Curiosity and how things work, a Basic under standing of Physics, a developing interest, Education in Italy and his specialisation First job in the UK with a tailor, factory then hotel, experience the UK and avoiding the Italian community. Panic answering the phone in English leading to increased confidence Early locations in UK and saving money to complete degree The goal to survive in the UK The evolution of Mario's career from physicist to human capital How his first job move after graduating came about How the move to Singapore occurred and the role Building and maintaining continuous career improvement Mario's role and purpose as employee number one for his current company Naming and describing his role in detail as an "Integrator" How Mario deals with conflicts in large organisations and the connection to individuals personal lives Equations that describe human behaviour Dealing with culture shock using physic's law of refraction to explain and deal with top performers failing in a new environment The mistaken assumptions that can be made when English speakers move to Singapore Mario's thoughts on his career progression over time and adapting when people no longer move physically and have to work remotely. The different approaches countries have taken post covid and allowing foreign employees to cross borders. Benefiting from the global talent pool Benefit of being part of the Brunel University Alumni Association (Singapore) Advice to current Brunel University Students Meeting at the next session Mario Ferraro ITX Brunel University

Laurence Barrett Laurence Barrett is a pioneering aviation engineer, entrepreneur and active member of the Brunel University Alumni Association. He has worked and lived in Singapore since 2014. His career in aerospace started as a systems engineer in 2002 in September 2012 he started an MBA in Aviation at Brunel University after making the challenging decision to leave a successful career as an engineer. After graduating He moved to Singapore working as a self-employed Aviation Business Specialist. Then in May 2015 he made the daunting decision to found his own aviation company Barrett Aerospace. "And I do actively employ people that are passionate about the jobs that they do. So much so that I would even create the job around the person" I sat down with Laurence in his engineering workshop for a conversation that covered his path from engineer, then founder, a few of the exciting developments that are occurring in the aerospace industry and the role that Brunel has played in his career and business development. "The MBA taught me a lot but I think the real world teaches you a lot more, and when you have something that’s a deadline that’s looming” This conversation is part of a new venture with the Brunel Alumni Association (Singapore). The format is based on my Entrepreneurs in Action series and we are looking to evolve it into a stand alone podcast series focused on Brunel Alumni based in Singapore. Send your ideas and suggestions to me on LinkedIn. So now without further delay let's begin As well as: 0:02:00 Leaving school with less than exemplary A-level results getting him into Polytechnic or RAF, or A-level repeat 0:02:58 Followed by 15 years in industry with Multinational companies 0:03:31 Learning how companies work by changing roles every 3 to 4 years 0:04:39 The role that overwhelmed him and revealed what he was not good at 0:05:05 supply supply relationship/analyst or engineer and the opportunities presented 0:07:14 Decision process of the next career move that led to quitting and a full-time MBA at Brunel University 0:09:12 Consulting wife, family and friends 0:10:48 Learning as a mature student and why choose Brunel University 0:12:33 Thinking about career options after the MBA 0:13:40 The realisation of the goal of doing something financially successful in the commercial aerospace industry 0:15:41 The Human-Powered Aircraft the Merlion Project 0:15:56 A bad joke by the host that's cleverly sidestepped by Laurence 0:16:04 Back to the serious business of human powered flight 0:18:47 Barrett Aerospace’s journey from drones to other aircraft and the effects of covid 0:19:53 electronic aircraft and electronic flight cooperation with Eviation and Deadlines 0:21:01 The importance building a network over time in an industry that enables working with other people and collaborating 0:21:27 project on time and on budget, the Alice Aircraft, July 2019 Paris 0:21:56 Eventually not just an engineer but the CEO and Founder 0:22:32 Creating jobs and roles around passionate, determined and driven people to create innovation 0:23:32 The real world need to bring engineering and return on investment together to the Human-Powered Aircraft Merlion Project 0:25:37 Working with other companies and start-ups that use crowdfunding and other non-traditional finance 0:26:24 how can and does the Singapore Alumni Association help? 0:31:08 Barrett Aerospace looking for engineering students for industrial placements 0:32:35 Finally we can be both contacted via LinkedIn A reminder if you're a Brunel Alumni or a current student and you wish to contact Laurence Barrett or myself Neville J Mckenzie you can do so through LinkedIn Links: https://www.barrettaerospace.com/ www.eviation.co https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurence-barrett-ab164846/ linkedin.com/in/njmckenzie

Chanfang Wang gave insightful answers, highlighted here, during The November China-Team ChinaWebinar Expert Talk: German Manufacturing Machines for Future Chinese “Red Ocean” Companies saw the moderator Xiaolong Hu interesting and informative discussing the Chinese machinery and automation market that is not only the largest, but also one of the fastest growing markets in the world.

Peter Bornschein, Thomas Wiedemann, Dr. Roland Rohde, Jan Lambacher and Rolf Kupek Christmas time and unreliable Supply Chains don't go well together! Join our latest China Webinar! In the coming year, things are likely to look different. The banking association BdB assumes the strongest consumer boom since reunification in Germany. Despite the high order backlog, industrial activity is likely to be subdued into the coming year. With our experts, we discuss in an open panel about: What supply chain challenges will German companies have with regard to the Chinese market? What risks do the supply bottlenecks entail? How to prepare preventively? Panel Experts: Thomas Wiedemann, Senior Project Manager at Korn Consulting Group Dr. Roland Rohde, Representative Hong Kong South and West China at Germany Trade & Invest Jan Lambacher, General Manager at Yardistry Limited Rolf Kupek, Managing Director at Kupek Consulting & Business Development Moderator: Peter Bornschein, Lean Project Manager at msg systems AG Expert Introductions: Thomas Wiedemann Senior Project Manager Korn Consult Group Mr. Wiedemann has a degree in mechanical engineering and brings practical experience in automotive projects, especially with purchasing, supplier development and customer management and has also proved himself as an excellent team leader. He brings the following company experience: Webasto, JTEKT, BMW. He speaks German, English, French, Italian and Mandarin. Dr. Roland Rohde Representative Hongkong South and West China, GERMANY TRADE & INVEST Roland Rohde has a doctorate in economics and has been working as a market observer in Asia for Germany Trade & Invest (GTAI) for 18 years. He is in Hong Kong for the second time. From there he reports on industries and markets in China. His reporting focuses on the electronics industry, the digital economy and aviation. Dr. Rohde speaks fluent Chinese (Mandarin) and a little Cantonese. Jan Lambacher General Manager Yardistry Limited Jan has been based in China since 2009 and has worked across the supply chain of multinationals and SMEs in the medical, industrial and consumer goods sectors. Central theme of his work has always been optimizing supply chains for import and export in and out of China within a global supply chain strategy. Rolf Kupek Managing Director Kupek Consulting & Business Development After studying mechanical engineering, more than 30 years of professional experience in project management at home and abroad with large corporations and more than 20 years as founder and managing director of a service company, the company was handed over to a successor. With Kupek Consulting & Business Development , the network built up and cultivated over the years is used alongside the company's own expertise to support medium-sized companies in their transformation processes and current problems. Especially the organization and development of international business connections are a main focus and have been successfully implemented several times. In doing so, a holistic, cross-functional approach is important, which is implemented in a pragmatic and goal-oriented manner. Peter Bornschein Lead Project Manager msg systems ag Seasoned General Manager and Leader in Business Software and Services Industry. Track record of growth, business development and client coordination. Exceptional competence in restructuring and turn-around. Established proficiency in transferring know-how and implementing company structures. Experienced in project steering and management. Demonstrated ability to communicate technical knowledge to different clients. Superb team player and leader with the ability to train, coach and motivate team members. Extensive multi-national experience in Germany, China, Poland, Malaysia, Singapore, USA, Sweden; communication skills in German, Swedish, Chinese and English

Xiaolong Hu, Martin Ebner, Chanfang Wang, Dr Martin Kovacik, Dr Tianyu Liu The November China-Team ChinaWebinar Expert Talk: German Manufacturing Machines for Future Chinese “Red Ocean" Companies saw the moderator Xiaolong Hu interesting and informative discussing the Chinese machinery and automation market that is not only the largest, but also one of the fastest growing markets in the world. With German machine builders increasingly doing business with Chinese customers the future may look bright However, in many areas of application, the Chinese competitors even have an advantage due to their proximity to the production locations. With our experts, we discuss how German mechanical engineering companies can assert the Chinese market and serve Chinese customers in the future with market-oriented product concepts and high product quality. Panel Experts: Mr. Martin Ebner, CTO, Strama-MPS Group Chanfang Wang, Founder China Expert Services, Digital China-Europe Network Dr. Martin Kovacik, Director Engineering Energy Storage, Manz AG Dr. Tianyu Liu, General Manager Machine Sales Asia, voestalpine eifeler Vacotec GmbH Expert Introductions: Martin Ebner Chief Technology Officer (CTO), Strama-MPS Maschinenbau GmbH & Co., Straubing Trained in one of the first dual courses of study in Bavaria to become a mechanical engineer and at the same time holding a certificate as an industrial mechanic, as well as a consecutive master's degree at the Friedrich-Alexander University of Nurnberg-Erlangen, Mr. Ebner has already been working at Strama-MPS for 13 years in different areas. For two years now, as CTO, he has been managing the company's digitalization, strategic fields as well as innovations in the areas of automation technology. Besides he is a member of the Wirtschaftsjunioren Deutschland as well as a former scholarship holder of the Hanns-Seidl-Foundation. Xiaolong Hu Managing Partner China-Team GmbH He is expert and ChinaCoach supporting European small and medium sized enterprises archiving sustainable market success. As founder of China-Team (www.china-team.de), Xiaolong Hu looks back on 20 years experience in consulting business in Europe and China. Chanfang Wang Founder China Expert Services Digital China-Europe Network Chanfang Wang has more than 13 years of experience in Europe in corporate strategy, change management, market & competitive intelligence, business development in IT, machinery automation & robotics industries. Now she's the Founder of China Expert Services (CES) and Digital China-Europe Network based in Frankfurt. She’s passionate about connecting people, ideas and technology. CES helps European high-tech SMEs expand and digitize in China, Chinese high-tech SMEs expand to Europe with transformational educational programs and digital tours. Dr. Tianyu Liu General Manager of machine sales Asia voestalpine eifeler Vacotec GmbH Dr. Liu received his Ph. D degree from Humboldt University in 2004. Since then he has over 15 years work experience based in Shanghai. This includes 7 years business consulting to support SME customers to formulate China business entry strategy and in addition to implement running the business. He has a very good knowledge of the Chinese market and is able to establish business relations and strategic orientations in Asia, especially in China. He devoted himself to support German SMEs to do the business development in Asia right after his consulting career was over. Market and customers needs orientation in addition to his strong technology background can always lead to successful business development stories in China. Dr. Martin Kovacik Director Engineering Energy Storage Manz AG Martin is mechanical engineer with PhD. in Bionics and Innovation strategy. He built up two engineering centers in Slovakia and China for German Machine and System manufacturer KraussMaffei Technologies and in China developed two serial machines for local Chinese market.

Prof. Peter Sachsenmeier, Dr. Sandra Bell, Johannes Kreissig, Corinne Abele, Winfried Mayer, Claudia Sanders Prof. Peter Sachsenmeier is a strategist, expert in complex technology management, industrial innovator and visionary. He is actively involved in knowledge transfer from research to industry, and combined outstanding appointments in academia with important posts in international companies. He combines deep technology knowledge with a keen sense of new business and management modes based on the digital transformation of all industries. With the national engineering academies of China and India, he has been engaged in smart city research and with the associated technologies for the last 15 years. In his International Innovation Center he leads smart city, green technologies, green materials and green finance teams. In 2014, Professor Peter Sachsenmeier 院士 received an award from the Chinese Green Rooftops association for his contribution to green ideas and technologies. Dr. Sandra Bell is an accomplished business leader, lifelong China expert and visionary strategist. She has 20 years working experience in strategy, go-to-market, and e-commerce. She worked 10 years for The Boston Consulting Group, and had leading positions in Henkel and Hershey, both in Germany and China. Today she leads the China & India region for Viega. Viega is a family-owned company and a hidden champion from Germany. Viega is global market leader in copper press technology and hygienic & potable drinking water solutions for infrastructure buildings. Johannes Kreissig is a visionary and thought leader in the field of sustainable construction. He has over 25 years of professional experience in the areas of life cycle assessment, sustainability assessment and strategy consulting. He worked for more than 15 years as a acting partner in the software and sustainability consulting specialist thinkstep. Since 2016 he has been CEO of the German Sustainable Building Council - DGNB, which is Europe's largest network for sustainable construction. The DGNB certification system, a planning and optimisation tool for sustainable buildings and districts, which helps to increase real sustainability in construction projects, is DGNBs key instrument to achieve sustainable buildings for everybody – everywhere. Corinne Abele is the Head of the Foreign Trade Information Bureau of Germany Trade & Invest in Shanghai, People’s Republic of China. Corinne has been living and working in China for nearly 20 years. An experienced journalist and economist, she has documented China's economic development with analyses, articles and lectures. A big part of her work focuses on the observation and analysis of innovation-driven technology markets and industrial digitalisation in China. Her other main topics are environmental protection, renewable energy, engineering and competition in China. Since 2014, Ms. Abele has been heading the Trade Information Section of Germany Trade and Invest in Shanghai. Prior to this she worked in the same position in Beijing (2004-2012) and in Taipei (1998-2004). Winfried Mayer, founded MPS in 1984 in Stuttgart MPS designs factories and industrial buildings in accordance with German standards and, depending on the area, according to local regulations. We also supervise local planning, take care of tender procedure as well as monitor and direct building operations on-site all over the world. Branches: Shanghai, China; Pune, India; Beverungen, Germany Projects: Over 500 projects in 25 countries Claudia Sanders is with the Network for Architecture Exchange NAX, the Federal Chamber of German Architects (BAK) supports German architects of all disciplines, engineers and specialist planners on their way to new markets. NAX thus promotes planning quality and the brand "Architecture Made in Germany" abroad with a wide portfolio of formats and activities. NAX brings together export-oriented planners and mediates contacts between domestic and...

Laurie Underwood Laurie Underwood is an American professor, author and consultant specializing in cross-cultural business communications She has studied worked and lived in Shanghai since 2002 Together with Prof Juan Fernandez at CEIBS, she has co-authored China CEO (2006), China Entrepreneur (2009) and most recently China CEO II (2020). The audio book was released in June 2021. Book links below. After around 10 years of work in Corporate Communications (most recently as Communications Director Asia Pacific for Air Liquide) she got her doctorate finished in 2019 and switched to consulting and teaching. She is a senior consultant with Sino Associates, focusing on intercultural business communications and crisis communications, and she teaches at several business schools including NYU Shanghai, University of Aberdeen, SKEMA and EmLyon. Today, she speaks with us about the realities of working in China post covid, working with China if you cannot travel there because of covid, and more generally sharing advice from China CEOs on the challenges and opportunities of doing business with China today. As well as The answer to the most Northern City in the USA Laurie’s career journey Moving to China and reasons for staying Career transitions and motivation for the changes The origins of China CEO and China CEO II, The differences in the people performing the role of CEO in China A hint at how they became CEOs The routes to becoming a CEO The personality traits that a CEO should have to not fail in China How someone can fail at being a CEO in China Laurie’s perspective on Westerners recently trying to move to live and work in China The speed of change and the changes that have taken place The freedom to reinvent yourself What does the word “culture" mean to Laurie? What do the different generations think about Career, Work and Entrepreneurship How Laurie’s classmates careers have changed The recent need for Laurie’s knowledge and experience Laurie explains why she isn’t a CEO What she has learned from CEOs, and as a professor and consultant so now without further delay let's begin

Jochen Schultz, Qiang Rong, Wei Zhang, Stefan Sack, Hsiao J Chiu (Top Left, clockwise) Jochen Schultz is the Managing Director and Member of the Board at China Netzwerk Baden-Württemberg, He has been supporting institutions and companies with professional training for 16 years (Schultz Professional Trainings). Which specialises in the development and implementation of qualification measures in China as well as for Chinese companies in Germany. In this podcast a recording of the webinar “Future Leaders in Sino-European Enterprises”, his role is moderator. The keynote: Qiang Rong who has dedicated himself for the Chinese city Foshan and German cooperation for more than 10 years Qiang represents the sponsor, Foshan Sino German Industry Service Zone. He has helped many companies from Germany to invest in Foshan and promotes the benefits of setting up in Foshan. The industrial service zone is also open to companies to setup from all part of the world. The expert panelist joining Jochen and Qiang are: Stefan Sack General Manager Zobele China - Director APAC Zobele Group Zobele is manufacturing company with 2,000 employees located in Shenzhen. After completing his PhD Stefan has lived and worked in manufacturing in China since 2005, His various roles have been with German and Italian companies in Shanghai and Shenzhen. He has also served as Vice President and Chairman of the European Union Chamber of Commerce in Shanghai 2013-15. Wei Zhang is the founder of Beijing For You International Management Consulting Co., Ltd, China which provides training, coaching and blended learning solutions to local and international clients in China. She has worked with many German companies in China, helping them identify and develop talent. Wei Zhang uses her unique insights and valuable experience to combat the rapid changes still taking place in China. Hsiao J. Chiu is the Co-founder and Managing Partner of JP contagi Asia, an Executive search firm with offices in Germany, Switzerland and China. As a professional recruitment consultant and cultural hybrid, he has been supporting European and Chinese companies for more than 15 years’. Hsiao J. Chiu’s family are originally from Zhejiang province, with Hsiao being born in Germany and has been based in Asia since 2004. The combined teams wide and varied experience allows them to tackle the following questions: What is the status quo of people management in China, what are the current challenges and how does this effect the leadership management? How to identify future leaders? How to qualify future leaders? So now without further delay lets begin Time Stamp 00:00:31 Introduction 00:03:43 Opening of Webinar by Jochen Schultz Introduction to keynote 00:05:48 Delivery of Keynote by Qiang Rong 00:25:26 Questions to Qiang Rong 00:30:26 Introduction of Experts 00:33:26 Discussion with Experts led by Jochen Schultz 00:35:26 Stefan Sack, Wei Zhang and Hsiao J. Chiu and Qiang Rong 01:22:17 Dr Tumis’s comments on Cultural aspects of trust 01:24:00 Final Closing remarks from experts 01:33:00 End This podcast it's made in partnership between ChinaTeam (on LinkedIn) and AsiaBizStories

Frank Epping in 1995 founded CUP&CINO in Germany. He is still the sole owner and CEO of the company that started with coffee shops. This podcast is a recording of a moderated webinar titled “How to Participate in the Boom of the Food and Beverage Market in China?” We fast forward to today where this entrepreneur along with his team are about to enter the Chinese market. They bring with them CUP&CINO's own Coffee machine and business concept. Kerstin Kaehler, Fabian Berndt, Maik Juengst on the panel and moderated by Adrian de Riz. They are all experts at doing business in China and give guidance to a CUP&CINO as it to steps into the new and unknown. Frank Epping is in the audience listening. However, the keynote is delivered by Sven Keysers the Chief Business Development Officer of CUP&CINO. From this point on the podcast speaks for itself however. But, Sven does present a series of slides before the moderated discussion takes place. If you'd like a copy of the slides visit China team on LinkedIn and make a request. So now without further delay let's begin. Time Stamp 00:01:33Introduction of the experts by the moderator00:03:40Delivery of Keynote by Sven Keysers00:25:05Panel Discussion01:22:17Closing Remarks01:26:00End

Neville J McKenzie Erin Soutar of the Hive Co-working Space Lavender Podcast studio in Singapore reverses the roles on Neville J McKenzie as he is the one discussing his thoughts on podcasting. The Hive has allowed AsiaBizStories to share the podcast on it's platform. As Neville talks about the topic of podcasting generally. From using podcasts in education Neville: So then you're not asking students to sit down and read or watch videos in the class. You're actually sending them to a website or a podcast and saying, read listen to this then when we come into the classroom we'll discuss what you've learned from it. Erin: It certainly sounds like a better way of learning I suppose we just need to convince the parents now. Building a community around podcasting Neville: I find them very interesting. I get to meet a good range of people because podcasting crosses all sorts of boundaries and this is where I hope that we can build a community, because it's not, it's not about the competition between podcasters, because there's and I think there's a niche for everyone that is interested in podcasting. In this conversation Neville gives a brief insight into the potential, and changes Erin’s mind on a few beliefs about podcasts and podcasting. So now without further delay lets begin. As well as: Entrance to the world of podcasting in China and entrepreneurship. A perspective on how the senses relate to podcasting The challenges faced by podcasters. His role in encouraging potential podcasters to give it a go. What makes a successful podcast What it means to build a community around a podcast. The growth of podcasting in Singapore Advice on the first steps to becoming or improving as a podcaster The mind set of a podcaster What effort and operating costs are involved in podcasting Key points to consider when choosing where to hosting a podcast What to focus on when building your audience What to prioritise in order not to make a bad podcast Engaging the youth with podcasts Using podcasts for education and blended learning and the need to convince parents and students. Convince Erin that she should not feel guilty about listening to free content and why it is good for the content producer What podcasts listened to and used Inform Erin that there is a podcast out there for every listener, you just have to find it. Up and coming projects at the Hive Lavender. How and why subjects are selected for the AsiaBizStories podcast series

Elvis Simon Elvis Simon is a barber with 33 years experience as a salon owner and teacher of barbering in London, England. He has also founded the Quality Barbers Association, QBA, which is involved in raising the professionalism of barbers. His colleagues include some famous names in the UK barbering and hairdressing world such as Rudi Page the former sales manager of Dyke and Dryden, Derek Clements, former Artistic Director of Splinters International and MK a mens stylist with Andis. He has also worked on TV and film sets, first the 90s TV show “Dance Energy, where he planned the hair styles of the DJ Normski and then a film starring Jean-Claude Van Damme, Until Death. Where he was responsible for the hair styling of British actor Gary Beadle of East Enders fame. Our conversation took place when he took a break during his short visit as he explored the potential of the Singapore market. Generally everyone needs a hair cut and his introduction to someone thinking of becoming a barber or hairdresser… If you don't like what you're about to do, don’t do it. because this is something that even when you want to get out of you can’t With the average haircut taking 45 minutes and the nature of being a barber bringing you into intimate contact with thousands, Elvis has learned a thing or two about people. I’ve been doing this for thirty years. I’ve seen people evolve from really clever to really stupid and you know in thirty years. Man has not progressed he has regressed, unfortunately. Just got thicker and thicker. This podcast covers a lot of ground in the black barbering industry. As well as Why he founded the QBA and who else is involved The events that led him to becoming a barber, learning from his elders and opening his own barbershops How and the reasons why hairstyles have changed since the 60s and links to hairstyles dating back hundreds of years Using hair as a tool for personal branding and the reasons why footballers such as Paul Pogba, Djibril Cissé and Matteo Guendouzi. Being judged by your hairstyle and the effects of cultural biases Why Singapore is now looking attractive to an entrepreneurial barber from London The favour that got him into teaching and new opportunities The latest trend in men’s hair care scalp micro pigmentation Traditional black barbershop culture and how it is evolving to provide health information to the community The limits in China for black haircare in the 90s and early 2000s and the DIY and self-help approach Teaching and training other nationalities how to cut black people’s hair and what NBA players do in China The request for a (free) haircut Working in TV and Film and the challenges it posses Barber—client confidentiality and a story he can tell us The wisdom, knowledge and advice coming from the barber How to approach embarking on a new and challenging venture Thanks to Elvis for that great insight into his plans for the future in Singapore and the business world of Black Hairdressing. We wish him all the best You can follow Elvis Simon on Instagram @ebs748

Moses Kakanga Moses Kakanga was born by Lake Victoria in the old capital Entebbe, Uganda where he attended school before moving to the capital Kampala Makerere University, the oldest university in eastern and central Africa. Where he graduating with a degree in biomedical laboratory technology. Moses then went on to work for an infectious disease Institute for three years before returning to study for a Masters degree in structural molecular biology, which culminated with study at Birkbeck College University London. He then returned home and continued with his previous employer for another four years. He then decided on another round of graduate study finding a scholarship on the Singapore international graduate award. And move to Singapore to pursue a PhD in biochemistry. From young Moses wanted to work in the medical field as a scientist. He was surrounded by several role models. His father was a practice in physician for 40 years and is still practising although semi retired. His mum is a nurse and many of aunts are nurses and growing up in a hospital community he saw he was exposed to many other role models in the medical profession. Initially he wanted to go to medical school but didn’t get the points before settling on biomedical laboratory science. When he looks back he looks back Moses attributes his success to working hard, which was based on his desire to attend medical school and in Uganda like most countries required the highest grades and to be top of your class. Moses believes he’s achieved everything he’s wanted academically. Initially he wanted to remain in academia and become a professor then after doing his Phd and living in Singapore he came to the realisation he wasn’t suited for a career in academia saying “If you wanna be in academia in the Western World you have to publish well. The pre-requisites are very stiff.” It wasn’t the challenge of academia as his previous employer wanted him back, offering him a position in the USA for two years. But he realised he wanted to have a career in Bio-med Innovation and create devices for unmet clinical needs. Moses grew up in the 90s in Entebbe before leaving in 2004 to go to the capital, Kampala to study at the Makerere University, which was a former College of the University of London and after independence it was handed over to the government of Uganda. It has the oldest medical school in Uganda. The medical school is ranked highly internationally is one of the top five in Africa. During the time he studied there a lot of international students from Kenya and Tanzania Moses then received a commonwealth scholarship and was attached to a scientist in Uganda. However the final six months were finished at Birkbeck, University of London while still attached to a Scientist in Uganda. He wasn’t lonely in London as he had cousins there and had a pleasant time. Missing out on the scholarship didn’t feel so bad because Moses was young at 17 and his dad was a bit scared about sending him alone to Hungary where he would also needed to learn a new language as well as the fact that he was already going to university in Uganda. Looking back at the time going it may have seemed like a missed opportunity but the other opportunities that have presented themselves have more than made-up for it. The desire to develop by a medical devices arose during his Phd studies as he worked on Biosensors for screening anti-cancer drugs and his interest shifted to a desire on innovation, drug or devices development. Moses feel that by remaining in academia he would not be able to accomplish as much due to the rigid and competitive career development. The challenge he sees for a scientist entering the world of entrepreneurship, are a lack of business skills, which for example may be business model development, customer development, market access. This lake is something that can be overcome by hiring a person with these business skills.