Age 42
Job title: Managing director, ICI Swire Paints, China and Hong Kong
What is your greatest achievement?
Growing the decorative business in China from a small, local market position to a profitable, national one. Dulux is now a popular brand in China and Hong Kong.
Dream brand to work on?
Coca-Cola, Microsoft or Sony.
What would you do if you weren't in this role?
Play multiple roles, influencing and shaping organisations and government policies. I would take the role of a visiting lecturer at a business school, or offer consultancy services. I would also like to act as a government advisor to help it shape economic policies.
What was your big break?
In 1996, I had the opportunity to move from a CFO role in India to lead the paints business in Singapore. The Asian Financial Crisis hit and we used it as an opportunity to pull out costs, re-align our business and invest in our core competencies.
Then, in 1999, I took on the business in China, which had a high cost and asset base, and low market share. We built a great team and focused on understanding the market. We invested in branding, network and innovation. This gave us accelerated profitable organic growth.
Is there a secret to your success?
People make all the difference - focus on building a great team. The sky is the limit. Listen to the consumer and delight him. Invest in market research. Question everything which does not leave a positive impact on the customer. Avoid complexity. Keep your business model simple and focused.
What advice would you give to the next person to do your current job?
Challenge the status-quo. Set high aspirations, build a strong team and focus on distinguishing competencies.
What are you currently reading?
Jack Trout's 'Simplicity', Larry Bossidy and Ram Charan's 'Execution', and 'Who moved my cheese'.
Business person you most admire?
Jack Welch and Bill Gates.