Staying relevant is important to Carey Wee an entrepreneur in the tech sector.
What’s your story?
Follow your gut and make changes! When you know what you are good at, you fly.
For close to 20 years I worked in the finance industry. I now work in information technology (IT). I have had many roles in the tech industry with my latest position as a stakeholder and president of the Amtel Group.
I am particularly proud of the following positions I have held; technology director for NTU Run Round Singapore, chairman of the organizing committee for the Death Valley Run in the USA, operational director and charity president for Dragon Boat Singapore 2007, technology consultant for a cycling event in Indonesia called, Dji Sam Soe Tour d’ Indonesia and most recently the technology provider for Go50.sg which tracks the kilometres you have run.
What excites you most about your industry?
Earlier on in my career, working was like empowering values and enhancing personal experiences. I never knew I had the ability to adapt from a career in finance to one in technology. In the finance industry, it was all about personal wealth, lifestyles and multiplying investment dollars. The last decade of my life has been about projects and public opinions. The ability to provide fast forward ideas and innovation is exciting. There is no margin for error on project implementation and establishing corporate presence and branding in the region has been great and very challenging.
What’s your connection to Asia?
I have worked closely with many partners in the region. As President of Amtel Pte Ltd, networking and values are important.
Favourite city in Asia for business and why?
From a cultural perspective, Philippines is great. The people are very friendly and romantic.
From a business perspective, Malaysia is a good place to work. I enjoy the food and drinks in Thailand. For shopping, Singapore, of course. Especially the mid year sales.
What’s the best piece of advice you ever received?
Be yourself and do it well. Know what you are capable of and see it through. Go to the ground and address it effectively. A good effective leader inspires others.
Who inspires you?
I am privileged to have met a few gurus. I remember the late Mr Lim S L, whom was a VP of a local bank back in 1987. I was in my early 20s then. He mentored me and convinced me that I could go far.
My present group chairman, Mr Koid also inspires me. He said to me once, “I believe in you. You are the S-curve domain in our corporate networking channel in the region.”
Wow. A few words can really make my day!
What have you just learnt recently that blew you away?
A good product may not sell. Only an effective product sells. What this means is, having the right timing, the right people and the right story.
If you had your time again, what would you do differently?
Gather good and credible individuals, and invest in research studies. I would have put up a good team from the outset, understand the product life cycle gap and most importantly, stay relevant.
How do you unwind?
Golf and I enjoy good wine with pals.
Favourite Asian destination for relaxation? Why?
1) Japan for good quality food and wine.
2) Bangkok for good spicy food and wine.
3) Shenzhen for good public (both male and female) spas.
Everyone in business should read this book:
1) The Three Kingdoms
2) Mr Lee Kuan Yew
Shameless plug for your business:
The technology industry is similar to Broadway fashion. The fast changing trend and application can be quite scary.
How can people connect with you?
Facebook “Amtel Singapore”
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This interview was part of the Callum Connect’s column found on The Asian Entrepreneur:
Callum Laing invests and buys small businesses in a range of industries around Asia. He has previously started, built and sold half a dozen businesses and is the founder & owner of Fitness-Buffet a company delivering employee wellness solutions in 12 countries. He is a Director of, amongst others, Key Person of Influence. A 40 week training program for business owners and executives.
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