What year did you join the industry? 

 I started my banking career in 1979 with Chase Manhattan Bank (CMB) in Singapore, as assistant supervisor of its Financial Control department.

How did you find the experience of study and working full-time?

I completed my CIB exam while I was with CMB, going on to be promoted to Supervisor with Financial Responsibilities over its three Singapore branches. It was a struggle to study – because most of the time I’d leave the office at around 10pm. Needless to say, the hard work was still really rewarding.

At the weekends I skipped social gatherings to study on my CIB subjects. It was worth it, because at this point in time (as an ACIB) these qualifications led to many job offers. It gave me choice. It was – and still is – a great qualification to have.

Fast-forward a little, to when I was working in an investment bank called Brandts (a joint venture between Citibank and Lloyds) as Operations Manager (and later Credit Manager) I was selected to attend a seven-week programme. The programme was Citibanks Advanced Credit Programme (AAMTU) in Manila.

My last banking position was Vice President/Head of Trade Banking at Bankers Trust (NY), I covered Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia. It was here that I was selected to attend a Leadership course in Manila and top the cohort.

At present, in addition to being President of the London Institute of Banking & Finance Alumni Singapore, and Board Council Member of UK Association of International Accountants, I sit on various board and advisory panels, such as:

1. RHT Forensics & Disputes Advisory Pte Ltd - part of the renowned regional RHTLaw TaylorWessing
2. Singapore Chung Hwa Medical Institutions - famous67 years oldcharitable hospital in Singapore
3. Sovereign Richwell (FE) Advisory E.U - established management advisory firm in the region