About your employer - please summarise the organisation you work for and its customer base.

I currently work in John Swire and Sons Hong Kong (Swire). From aviation to shipping and property to beverages, Swire operates in multiple industries across the globe. Many of its core businesses can be found within the Asia Pacific region and include well-known companies such as Cathay Pacific, Swire Coca-Cola, HAECO, Swire Properties, Swire Shipping and Steamships Trading Company.

I am currently seconded to Cathay Pacific as Regional Head of Customer Travel and Lifestyle, South East Asia, based in Singapore.

What was the position you were recruited for. Please briefly outline the position you were recruited to within your organisation and summarise the business needs and role you fulfil.

I was recruited as a Management Trainee as part of the Swire Management Programme. The objective of the Swire Management Programme is to develop high performance, high potential individuals into business leaders who share a common set of values. On the Programme, individuals have the option to explore different industries, functions, countries and cultures while having the flexibility to hone your skills and gain experience in the areas that interest you most. The Programme also offers frequent job rotations, together with extensive training and development support.

What are the key skills you learnt at Warwick that have helped you with your career to date.

The ability to learn quickly and summarise information in a short period of time, and to connect with people from various backgrounds.

What has been your greatest career challenge to date and how did your experience and skills help overcome it.

To motivate people when things get tough. COVID has meant great setbacks for the aviation business. We have been constantly looking for various sources of good news to motivate people to keep moving.

What top tips would you give to students looking for a career in your market sector.

Keep an open mind and never be afraid to ask questions. We could always learn from our colleagues, young and old, who have extensive knowledge from and outside the industry.

Any additional advice or comments.

Enjoy your university days, you will never have them back again!