CEO of the Year
The veteran leader has been recognised by Singapore Business Review
When Chui Tau Siong joined Jebsen & Jessen Packaging’s predecessor as a machine operator in 1973, he couldn’t have imagined where the path would lead. Some 50 years later, he has been named Executive of the Year at the SBR Management Excellence Awards 2024. This accolade celebrates his vision, dedication and the transformative impact he has made as CEO of Jebsen & Jessen Packaging.
Mr Chui’s rise to CEO is a story of grit and gratitude. Born in Malaysia, he moved to Singapore at 17, taking a chance on a factory job he spotted upon arriving in Jurong Industrial Estate. Over the years, he worked his way up, from machine operator to salesman, general manager and regional managing director in 1990, a role which has been since renamed CEO.
Mr Chui’s leadership has been instrumental in turning Jebsen & Jessen Packaging into a regional leader. Under his guidance, the company has expanded its footprint across South East Asia, entering Malaysia, Vietnam and Indonesia. Five mergers and acquisitions have diversified its portfolio, while a strategic push into blow-moulded bottles in 2020 now accounts for half of the business unit’s revenue.
His commitment to operational excellence has been nothing short of transformative. He spearheaded lean manufacturing initiatives to streamline operations and cut waste, which have sharpened the company’s competitive edge. Sustainability has also been a cornerstone of his leadership. Under his guidance, the conversion of coal-fired boilers to biomass in Vietnam has drastically reduced the company’s carbon footprint. Solar energy now powers packaging facilities in Malaysia and Singapore, with similar projects advancing in Indonesia and Vietnam.
Beyond business achievements, he has championed initiatives that create meaningful community impact. The Vietnam Charity Bursary, supporting employees’ children with education funding, is just one example of his commitment to making a difference that extends beyond the factory floor.
Reflecting on his journey, Mr Chui credits the company’s culture of trust and mentorship for his growth. He recalls a pivotal moment early in his career when a senior manager encouraged him to pursue a management role, steering him towards opportunities that would define his future. “The camaraderie and the trust placed in me were what kept me motivated,” he says. “Being part of a team that values knowledge-sharing and well-being made all the difference.”
As a leader, Mr Chui values the power of teamwork and believes that cultivating strong management teams is key to success. He often takes a hands-on approach, accompanying sales teams to secure key accounts and mentoring colleagues to help them unlock their potential. He also spoke about the power of reflection during his daily walks, which he uses to generate ideas and maintain focus amidst a demanding role.
To aspiring leaders, he advises, “Be willing to do more than your job description, seek guidance and learn to manage difficult relationships even with your boss.”
Though retirement looms on the horizon, Mr Chui has no plans to slow down entirely. He envisions mentoring future leaders and sharing his experience while also enjoying a newfound love for pickleball.