What inspired you to pursue a career at your company?
To round off each issue, we ask our contributing business leaders for their views on the same question
Rama Sridhar
Executive Vice President of Digital and Emerging Partnerships and New Payment Flows for Asia Pacific, Mastercard
“I entered banking after almost a decade in technology. At the time, the sector was the sunrise industry of the mid-90s. An opportunity to get in at ground zero and build a career in one of the highest growth markets was an opportunity not to be missed. Because of my background in tech, I naturally gravitated towards technology-led payments products, which built the perfect launch for my career with Mastercard.”
Thomas Debruyne
Market Manager (F&B) & Digital Transformation Manager for Asia Pacific, Veolia Water Technologies
“Joining Veolia was an easy choice for me as the group has the capabilities to support clients from all industries in their pursuit for sustainability, managing resources like water, energy, and waste. Presently, water is still a subsidised commodity and many companies find it difficult to justify any investment in more sustainable solutions. But this is beginning to change as people are seeing greater value in long-term returns, and I’m happy to be a part of this change.”
Dr Wong Pak Seng
Managing Director, Sunfert International
“Having worked in and visited several fertility centres both locally and overseas, I felt that there was a need for a patient-centred fertility centre, offering value and good outcome. Based on these principles, Sunfert International became the fastest growing fertility centre in Malaysia and became the largest fertility group in terms of the number of centres and IVF cycles in 2018.”
Håkan Agnevall
President of Volvo Bus Corporation
“There will be more progress in the commercial vehicle space in the next decade than there has been in the past 30 to 40 years. That’s why I’m thrilled to be working in this position.
“We have formulated a purpose at Volvo Bus Corporation – we want to make a difference as a pioneer in sustainable transport solutions, currently ensuring that millions of people reach their travel destinations every day. We have an impact on society, on people’s lives and on the future of the world, and for me this purpose is truly inspirational.”
Paul Abfalter
Head of North Asia, Telstra
“I was attracted to the pace of innovation and change both within the industry itself and as a catalyst for the rest of the economy. I’ve had a great journey with Telstra in Asia as a long-term leader across sales, networks, business transactions and transformation in the areas of information technology and telecommunications.
“I’ve had many highlights including building a new 4G network in Hong Kong to leading the restructure of our Reach joint venture - which kick-started our growth again in Asia - and the integration of the Pacnet acquisition. My roles have allowed me to develop pan-Asian experience over several countries in a gradual way and learn something new every day.”