What is your greatest work achievement?
Surviving almost 35 years without getting sacked.
What would be your dream brand to work on and why?
The fun is really in creating a product, then a brand and maximising its profitability. I am still working on Recruit.
What was your big break?
Getting my first job. I had just finished high school (Form 5) and a friend suggested I apply for a job as a reporter at an English newspaper called The Star, back in 1967.
The news editor spoke with a very heavy Aussie accent and I could hardly understand what he was saying. To this day, I'm not sure if I answered his questions correctly. But I answered something or the other, and I was hired.
Who was your mentor and how did this person influence you?
Mentors are people who teach, show, or demonstrate how things ought or should be done. Invariably, they did right in their career and are successful.
That's one way of learning, particularly if you are fortunate enough to run into a mentor who is generous and kind.
Personally, I learnt more observing people who screwed up in their work.
Understand the 'why' and the 'how' they failed, was real good shock therapy.
I can't name them as too many are still alive and kicking.
Is there a secret to your success?
The first thing that I learned in my first job was 'nothing is impossible'.
That stuck with me.
How do you handle difficult clients?
Treat them like your girlfriend. Always give them the best and try to win their heart. But, if they decide to dump you, forget it and find another.
What advice would you give to the next person to do your current job?
Do a better job! If I could give him or her advice that would make the business perform better, I would have done it by now.
What are you currently reading that will help you in your job?
Managing the Short Term by Chuck Martin.
CEOs should dream only that much or they risk not having their feet planted firmly on the ground - that is when they lose touch with reality.
Who is the business person you most admire and why?
My admiration goes to anyone who has made it to the top and has stayed there.
