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If you could go back and change one career decision , what would it be ?
If I could go back and change one career decision , it would be to embrace opportunities for cross-functional collaboration earlier in my career . While I have always valued teamwork , I initially focused more on honing and broadening my technical skills . Looking back , I realize that engaging with colleagues from different departments and disciplines sooner could have provided me with a broader perspective and a more holistic understanding of the business .
What do you currently identify as the major areas of investment in your industry ?
In today ' s fast-paced world , the Relocation and Mobility industry is undergoing significant transformation driven by technological advancements . Companies in this sector are increasingly investing in technology to enhance efficiency , improve client experience , and streamline operations . Some examples include :
• Digital platforms and portals are revolutionizing how relocation and mobility services are delivered . These platforms provide a centralized hub for clients , employees , and service providers to manage relocation processes seamlessly . Features such as tight integration with client ' s HRIS or mobility management solutions , digital document management , real-time tracking , and automated workflows enhance transparency and efficiency .
• Data analytics and business intelligence tools are enabling companies to make data-driven decisions . By analyzing relocation patterns , costs , and client feedback , companies can optimize their services , identify trends and forecast future needs . This investment in data analytics helps tailor services to meet specific client requirements and improving overall service quality .
• AI and machine learning are being utilized to automate routine tasks , provide personalized recommendations and improve customer service . Chatbots , for instance , can handle initial client inquiries and provide instant responses , while machine learning algorithms can predict potential challenges and suggest proactive solutions .
What are the region-specific challenges when implementing new technologies in Asia ? low-cost region and so investment in new technologies must align with the local economic context . What may be very cost-effective in Europe can be seen as very expensive and poor value in Asia .
Language diversity in Asia poses another challenge . Effective communication is critical for the successful implementation and operation of new technology solutions . Companies must ensure that their technology is accessible and user-friendly for local markets by providing local language training and using clear concise English that is easily understood .
What changes to your job role have you seen in the last year and how do you see these developing in the next 12 months ?
Over the past year , my role as Group Vice President , IT has evolved significantly . One of the most notable changes has been an increased emphasis on digital transformation initiatives not only internally within Crown , but also in our customer products .
Additionally , there has been a greater focus on cybersecurity . As cyber threats become more sophisticated , ensuring the security of our systems and data has become a top priority . This has involved not only adopting advanced security measures but also fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness across the organization .
Looking ahead to the next 12 months , I anticipate that these trends will continue to develop . We will likely see further advancements in AI and machine learning , which will play a crucial role in automating processes and providing deeper insights into our operations . Moreover , the integration of cloud-based solutions will become even more prevalent , enabling greater flexibility and scalability .
What advice would you offer to someone aspiring to obtain a C-level position in your industry ?
If you are from a technology background , it ' s important to learn and understand what the company you are working for actually does and how it works from a business perspective . What are we selling ? Why do customers buy it from us ? What are all the functions in the business from Sales to Human Resources , to Finance to Marketing , Operations contributing to make it happen .
Having been based in Asia for the past 27 years , I ' m well versed in the challenges that implementation projects may face in this region . Asia is considered a
Engage with people from all departments , ask questions , and use your skills to help resolve their problems or add value . Don ' t wait to be asked . p
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