Careers: What it's like to work for ... MassMutual Asia

Elroy Chan is managing director and chief executive officer of MassMutual Asia and head of Asia for the MassMutual Financial Group.

How many staff?

Around 2,000.

Marketing responsibilities?

The team handles integrated marketing strategic planning for the Hong Kong and Macau markets. This includes marketing communications, product marketing, online marketing, and above- and below-the-line advertising and promotions, as well as planning and implementation of sales support for all the different distribution channels.

Who's the competition?

Almost anyone in the wealth management industry is competing with us as insurance companies nowadays provide not only wealth protection but also wealth accumulation and wealth creation products ranging from insurance, savings, retirement and investment products and services.

How do you get a job there?

MassMutual usually designs recruitment activities in such a way as to attract suitably talented and qualified individuals. In addition, it recruits via adverts in the press and through referrals as well.

Departmental or office transfers?

Yes, and that can be a great benefit for anyone wanting to broaden their experience.

Any training offered?

Plenty of on-the-job training, and we must undergo professional training, specifically on insurance subjects, in order to pass the necessary insurance examinations before we can practice as insurance consultants.

Pay and perks?

The pay is highly competitive and set according to performance levels. We offer plenty of opportunities for suitable candidates to climb the ladder. Staff also receive discretionary bonuses, incentives and awards.

Long hours?

Of course - this is the one main characteristic of marketing. We need to stay abreast of market trends so as to provide flexible products and services catering to customers' unique and ever-changing needs.

Business travel?

Yes - to Taiwan, Japan, Shanghai and Macau. We always travel to top destinations to reward our agency force. Last year, it was Milan and Venice; next year, it's New Zealand and South Korea.