Tuesday with Khun Tom

I had the pleasure of sitting down with Songsin Sungkhawaetai, or Khun Tom, our new Managing Director at Jebsen & Jessen Ingredients in Thailand. He’s stepping into Paul Chan’s shoes, bringing loads of experience and a fresh outlook.

I was curious about his journey, so I asked what brought him to us. With a warm smile, he shared his 30-year career – starting with 13 years at Roche, then moving to DSM Nutritional Product, Bakels Thailand (where he helped build the office system), DKSH and Brenntag before landing here.

When I asked why he joined us, Khun Tom said that after so many years in the food industry, he was ready to explore something new. This felt like the right next step. His vision is clear: hit or exceed sales targets and shape a solid five-year plan.

I asked how we can work well together, and he stressed the importance of open communication. He considers himself easygoing and believes that strong relationships and honest conversations are key to getting things done.

When I asked what a day in the life of a managing director looks like, he smiled and said, “Anything that keeps the operations running smoothly," he said simply. Whether it’s sales, back-office work or identifying areas for improvement, he sees his role as making sure everything flows seamlessly.

Challenges? He’s figuring out Jebsen & Jessen’s culture — knowing that what worked in his past roles might not work here. But he’s confident there’s always a solution.

To get to know him better, I asked what word describes him best. He said Sabai Sabai — take it easy. He believes in working hard but also enjoying the process. And outside of work? He’s happiest in nature, whether exploring parks, forests, or just driving through the countryside.

After our conversation, it’s clear that his strong belief in people, his open and adaptable leadership style, and his enthusiasm make him a great addition. Welcome aboard, Khun Tom!