Connie Ho

[Collection]🔵Exciting News!🔵 The National Human Capital Conference and Exhibition (NHCCE) 2024 will revolve around the theme of "Humanising AI in the Workforce". This firm emphasis on more human centric AI development truly encapsulates the future of workforce dynamics. Even the CEO of Microsoft AI has spoken on the crucial role Artificial Intelligence will play in the future. Undoubtedly, leveraging AI in business processes can lead to unprecedented efficiency and innovation. But don't forget, it’s not just about the technology but how we bring the human element into it. If we can manage to maintain the 'human touch' while reaping the benefits of AI, the possibilities are endless.🚀 Keen to explore AI & automation in your business? KGUInternational.com, an AI & Automation Consulting Agency, offers an invaluable opportunity. 📌Sign up now for a FREE consultation on how to effectively leverage AI in your business. Book your slot at: https://lnkd.in/g6yq3KD3 #AI #ArtificialIntelligence #Workforce #TechNews #NHCCE2024 #KGUInternational #BusinessAutomation.

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Hiring Sentiment in Singapore Remains Soft, But Most Sectors Still Looking to Boost Headcount Despite a generally soft hiring sentiment, 44% of employers plan to hire for the July-September period, according to the latest survey. The finance and real estate sectors are notably cautious, with the net employment outlook dropping 30 percentage points to 15%. However, the transport, logistics, and automotive sector shows resilience with a robust 47% net outlook. Other highlights: - Communication services: -33% outlook, the only negative sector. - Overall net employment outlook: 20%. - Positive outlook in healthcare, life sciences, industrials, and materials sectors. - Smaller firms (10-49 employees) report the strongest outlook at 46%. At Elliott Scott HR, we are experiencing a rise in demand for COE roles, particularly in Rewards, HRIS/Analytics, and Talent Management. Companies are also seeking strong strategic HRBPs for newly created positions or to enhance and uplift current capabilities. If we can be of assistance please don't hesitate to reach out, [email protected] https://lnkd.in/g6x6mhpV

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From Third World to First by Lee Kuan Yew I had so much anticipation reading From Third World to First by Lee Kuan Yew, and as I turned each page, it felt like I was attending a masterclass on impactful visionary leadership. There is so much learnings from this book and I will try my best to summarise some of my key learnings. This book reveals how Singapore transformed through determination and strategic vision. Lee, as the first Prime Minister of Singapore, faced risks to his safety, was often unpopular, and journalists doubted Singapore's prospects. Yet, he never let these doubts show because he knew people needed hope to believe in a better future. I found Lee's international experiences enlightening. They taught him the immense value of multiculturalism. He realized that embracing diverse religions, languages, and backgrounds could lead to greatness. This resonates deeply with me as I navigate my own leadership journey, recognizing the strength that comes from diversity. Lee knew he couldn't do it alone, and that’s something I’ve come to appreciate in my own experiences. He built a remarkable team, sometimes taking chances on people with little experience but great enthusiasm. Understanding that success requires continuous learning, he sent military leaders to top universities for professional development. This underscores the importance of investing in people, a lesson I strive to apply in my own endeavors. Lee implemented unconventional ideas. He supported women in the military and sought global collaboration to tap into resources, knowledge, and skills. He believed that greatness takes time, as shown by the military base's success, which only came in 1990, decades after he started his journey as Prime Minister. This reminded me to be patient and persistent, knowing that significant achievements often require time. Lee's strategic vision in positioning Singapore in the global economy was particularly inspiring to me. By focusing on the oil industry, Singapore became a key player. Similarly, they turned time zone differences into an advantage, creating a thriving financial center. This readiness to seize opportunities resonated with me, highlighting how foresight and preparation can lead to sustained success. On a personal note, I was inspired by how Lee balanced his intense responsibilities with hobbies that helped him think clearly and relax. He found value in living abroad and returning home, enriched by those experiences. This balance is something I strive for in my own life, recognizing the importance of self-care and continuous personal growth. Lee Kuan Yew’s story is a powerful reminder that with determination, learning from others, and a vision for the future, extraordinary achievements are possible. His leadership blueprint offers invaluable insights for anyone looking to make a meaningful impact. For me, this book was not just a read but a journey into the essence of visionary leadership.

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Introducing the Singapore Salary Guide 2024/25! Gain unparalleled insights into salary trends, in-demand skills, and workplace transformations across Singapore’s dynamic industries. Whether you're an employer seeking to attract top talent or a job seeker aiming to chart your next career move, this guide has everything you need to navigate the job market with precision. Inside the Guide: • Industry and functional specific salary data • In-depth analysis of trends, including sustainable finance and AI-powered workplace transformations. • Insights and tips to help employers secure top talent and for job seekers to negotiate effectively. • Key trends shaping the future of work Stay informed and lead with confidence. Download your essential resource today! Visit https://lnkd.in/gG9aWdKk today!

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In Budget 2024, Singapore announced that it will implement the Income Inclusion Rules and a domestic minimum top-up tax from financial years starting on or after 1 January 2025. IRAS has recently published GloBE Rules and Domestic Top-up Tax rules. The document covers all concepts in a good summary format with examples especially how MNE Groups will be affected when Singapore will implement IIR and DTT. MNCs should start assessing the financial and operational impact of Pillar Two rules on their businesses. This will help to develop appropriate response strategies. https://lnkd.in/g6DbJwXX)

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Singapore's recent surge in M&A activity showcases its robust economic and political stability, with a remarkable 102% increase in deal value from last year. The city-state is emerging as a powerhouse for business in Southeast Asia, consistently attracting global deals and investments that rival larger counterparts. #GlobalBusinessHub #InnovationLeadership #StrategicInvestment #EconomicResilience #Asia At the forefront of Southeast Asia's economic development, Singapore's strategic transactions highlight its strong corporate governance, drawing significant international investments. This flurry of M&A activity reflects a growing confidence in the region's economic prospects, with businesses investing in valuable assets despite global uncertainties. For more insights on Singapore's economic performance, check out the full article: (https://lnkd.in/g3-PuXvY) In sharing these insights, it's important to note that these are personal observations. While the data speaks for itself, the interpretation and perspective offered are my own.

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🇲🇾Malaysia is my #1 - Reflecting on Singapore's Ranking as Top Expat Destination, A Personal Perspective 1. As a foreigner residing in Malaysia, I was taken aback by the recent article proclaiming Singapore as the number one destination for expatriates (#ExpatsLife #ForeignersInMalaysia). While Singapore undoubtedly boasts efficiency and safety, my heart remains firmly rooted in Malaysia (#LoveMalaysia). 2. Malaysia, with its rich cultures, religions, and traditions, embodies the true essence of a melting pot society (#CulturalDiversity #HarmonyInDiversity). Living here has afforded me the opportunity to immerse myself in a vibrant and inclusive community, where people from all walks of life coexist harmoniously. 3. Beyond its cultural allure, Malaysia offers an unparalleled quality of life, breathtaking natural landscapes, and a culinary scene that tantalizes the taste buds (#QualityOfLife #NaturalBeauty). From bustling cities to serene beaches, Malaysia truly has something for everyone. 4. Moreover, the cost of living in Malaysia is remarkably affordable compared to many other expat destinations, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a high standard of living without breaking the bank (#AffordableLiving #ValueForMoney). 5. While Singapore may excel in certain aspects, Malaysia holds a special place in my heart. Its warmth, diversity, and charm make it my top pick for expatriates seeking a fulfilling and enriching experience (#MyMalaysia #HomeAwayFromHome). Anwar Ibrahim Fahmi Fadzil Tengku Zafrul Aziz Gobind Singh Deo Arham Abdul Rahman Datuk Jake Abdullah Nordin Abdullah Malaysia Australia Business Council (MABC) EPS Recruitment & Outsourcing Charles Brewer Dr Ahmad Sabirin Arshad Chris J Reed David Wee Edward Roncon Bobby Varanasi, COP Rob Cayzer Sim Ling KU

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𝑺𝒆𝒍𝒂𝒉 / reflect It's been 1 full year since my return to Singapore from my pandemic travels, left my role in VC and embarked on a new adventure... Some highlights: 🗞 Started my own newsletter (https://lnkd.in/gch4qSrF) 🤝 Organised over half a dozen networking events for startups, scale ups and investors (international founders night, pitch night, panels, hikes & bbqs!) 🇲🇲 Saw Crossworks Myanmar's Employees Under Management double as we double down on stopping the brain drain of the country's best and brightest 🧠 🏝 Visited Bali & Batam for the first time + cycled to JB way too many times. 🇸🇬 Hosted 4 team members in Singapore & celebrated Crossworks' 5th anniversary with employers 🎉 🚴‍♂️ Cycled 2000km from Singapore to Bangkok & raised $62k+ (still fundraising till the end of the month) for the Mae Tao Clinic (https://bit.ly/2000cycle) 🇨🇳 Joined an inaugural overseas team holiday in Sichuan, China (📸 taken as Jiuzhaigou National Park's Primitive Forest) Lowlights: 🚲 Bike & helmet got stolen/lost at the end of 2023 + spent >$400 on parts/servicing (much more than what I paid for the bicycle!) 💸 Dealt with 2 cases of old clients refusing to pay up at Startupmedia 🚪 Closed J Rental Centre's City Hall Collection Point after 6 years at Peninsula Plaza, still clearing pre-loved photography/filmmaking equipment... 😢 Watching fear grip the hearts of people and making difficult choices between home and security On balance, the last year has been eventful, fruitful, not all up-into-the-right/bed of roses, rainbows and unicorns, but one that I'm thankful for 🙏. Thankful I'm not caught up in the rat race of life 🐀 🏁 , struggling with safety/security or aimlessly living day by day without much to look forward to or work towards. ❗ Yet there is a fine line between contentment/gratitude and settling for what's good instead of what's best. It is far from time to settle... There is much work left to be done, the mission is clear though the path is one I'm still in the midst of discovering, building the plane as it flies 🛫. In quiet reflection I take stock of the year that has bolted by, give thanks for the people, events and opportunities - both good and bad, and reaffirm my commitment to do my level best and nothing less toward doing what I can. #reflections #selah #rest #reflect #lookingback #throwback #review #year #singapore #myanmar #travel #adventure #learning #perspective #gratitude #thanksgiving

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Following up on the discussion about the high cost of living in Singapore, another issue that came up is work-life balance. It's not just about the high expenses; many senior professionals are feeling the pressure to work longer hours to keep up. I've been hearing from a lot of senior executives lately that balancing life and work here is tough. The financial stress adds another layer of challenge. Companies can really help by offering flexible work options, wellness programs, and supportive environments. It's not just about the paycheck; it's about creating a lifestyle that keeps top talent happy and engaged. How is your company helping employees maintain a good work-life balance?

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We are thrilled to announce that we successfully raised ¥2.8 billion ($20M) in our Series B funding round. This time, we are pleased to welcome Vertex Growth, a growth fund under Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund Temasek, as a new shareholder. Additionally, all our existing shareholders, including Japan’s government-backed financial institution DBJ, have participated in the funding round. We aim to build digital infrastructure for real estate industry across Japan and Asia, supporting the sustainable development and economic growth of gateway cities and regions. In the 2024 JLL Real Estate Transparency Index, Japan ranked first in Asia but only 11th globally. While Tokyo leads globally in metro-area GDP, population, and real estate market size, it is said to lag behind the US and some European countries as a long-term investment destination for institutional investors. The commonly pointed-out challenges are always 1) access to fundamental data and 2) the transaction process. estie aims to solve these issues with the power of data and software, creating a better investment environment for the healthy development of cities and regions in Japan and across Asia. With deep gratitude to our dedicated team working tirelessly for our customers, the VCs (UTEC, GCP, and GB) who have supported us since the early days, the ecosystem pioneers who prepared the ground for our challenges, and most importantly, our customers who believe in our product, we will continue to push forward! https://lnkd.in/gxVktein

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Want to safeguard your business success and sustainability? Well, you’ll need a succession plan ➡️ https://lnkd.in/gXVu4mqy A PwC global family business survey found only 8% of Singaporean family businesses had a formal, detailed and well-communicated succession plan. While you can’t predict something like unforeseen leave or unexpected resignation, you CAN plan 👊 It’s #successionplanning that will help you to survive when the unexpected hits 😉 Get to know your options and get planning ⤵️ 🚨 Emergency succession planning ✍🏻 Long-term succession planning 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family business succession 🤓 Succession for specific roles 💼 External succession planning #Management #BestAdvice

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🚀 Official Launch: Robert Walters Salary Survey 2025! 🚀 We are super excited to share our 2025 Salary Survey, giving you an inside look at what professionals and companies are really focused on these days. Here are some of the key takeaways: - Flexibility in work arrangements is a top priority for job seekers, while employers are more focused on the skills candidates bring to the table than looking at their qualifications. - 66% of companies value professionals with problem-solving and critical thinking skillsets. - In 2024, nearly half (46%) of companies hired talent on a contract basis, and 86% of those contracts lasted 6 months or longer. A ton of more trends shaping the future of work can be found in our survey. Check out the full version and get the insights you need to make smarter career or hiring decisions: https://lnkd.in/gpU3nz6X We’d also love to hear your thoughts! Drop a comment below and share any hiring challenges you’re facing. Let’s tackle the future of work together! #RobertWaltersSingapore #Singapore #SalarySurvey #SingaporeWorkforce #CareerDecisions Kirsty Poltock Wendy Heng Faiz Modak Glen Chua Sachet Sethi Anarane T. Allie Teh Julian Ang Ivy Low

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"When I proposed the concept of a Corporate Governance Code (CGC) to lawmakers in 2013, I hoped that the following policies would be adopted, but 11 years later, they are not even being discussed." 1) Appoint a majority of independent directors on Prime-listed companies 2) Clarify the meaning of "corporate value" and responsibility of the board 3) Disclose annual director training results 4) Plan for convergence of the three governance structures of listed firms 5) Promptly disclose stock transactions by directors and executives 6) Enhance disclosure of beneficial shareholders 7) Improve the comparability of proxy voting by institutional investors https://lnkd.in/g6cHj2MU Kenju Watanabe Sachiko Ichikawa Rob Hale 大杉謙一 Seth Fischer Ikawa Tomohiro Akihisa Shiozaki Masataka Ueda Tadayasu Nishida Ryushiro Kodaira Royanne Doi David S. Tsuyoshi Maruki Kirk Neureiter David Milstein James Halse, CFA Ulrik Jensen Fumie Kikuchi Drew Edwards Masafumi Kondo Aya Wagatsuma Sachin Mithal James McRitchie Teruo Bando Colin Jones Eric Cole Roger Marshall George Kellerman Arthur Mitchell Nels Hansen Amar Gill

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A very pertinent article relevant to the Thai market, where 80% of the country's GDP is driven by family-owned businesses, which comprise almost one third of the companies listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Increasingly JacksonGrant Executive is being asked to advise on large family enterprises looking to evolve their business to support international growth, organisational development and strategic objectives. Brave decisions need to be made as well as the tricky matter of challenging long-held preconceptions and assumptions to disrupt existing thinking and unlock new leadership dynamics for family-owned organisations. In the heart of every family business lies a unique dynamic—one that can either propel growth or hinder progress. With family-owned businesses making up a significant portion of the economy in Southeast Asia, understanding these enterprises' inner workings becomes crucial. The role of HR in these businesses can often be complex, riddled with challenges such as navigating familial politics, ensuring fair succession plans, and fostering a culture free from fear and retribution. Yet, these challenges are surmountable. Solutions rest within a strategic, empowered HR function that sits at the decision-making table, equipped to shape a company culture that prizes both the business objectives and the well-being of its employees. Picture an HR landscape where employees are not just members of a workforce but part of a legacy, where their personal milestones are celebrated as much as their professional achievements. At JacksonGrant Executive, we're not just observers of this transformative journey—we're active drivers. We steer HR towards becoming a strategic partner, capable of instituting positive change. Empowering HR in family-owned businesses involves fostering trust, establishing robust governance frameworks, and professionalizing the talent management process, from recruitment to retirement. Remember, it's not simply about instilling corporate structures but adapting them with local insight to create an environment where both the business and its people can thrive—even within the most personal of businesses. Have you faced similar HR challenges in family-owned businesses? How did you approach them? Let's discuss in the comments or connect with us to explore bespoke HR solutions tailored for your executive needs. Discover more at jacksongrant.io #HumanResources #FamilyBusiness #ExecutiveSearch

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Recently, I had the privilege of facilitating a workshop on Ikigai and work-life harmony for a select group of Laotian Gen Zs from 15 companies. Our session delved deep into the essence of Ikigai, moving beyond the oversimplified Western interpretation often depicted in Venn diagrams. Instead, we embraced the authentic Japanese perspective, symbolized by the Kamiya flower. Ikigai isn't about chasing longevity, societal expectations, or financial gain. It's about finding balance and joy in everyday activities, contributing to the community, and living authentically without external validation. Dr. Ken Mogi's five pillars—connection, kindness, learning, gratitude, and presence—became our guiding stars during our discussions. Our conversations highlighted the curiosity and distinct needs of Gen Z, which often clash with conventional societal and workplace norms. These young individuals are on a path of self-discovery, seeking to understand their true selves and their potential. Ikigai, we discovered, is not a fixed goal but an ongoing journey—a way of appreciating each moment, whether sweet or bitter. As I continue these workshops, I experience my Ikigai to empower Gen Z in discovering their Shimeikan (sense of purpose) and embracing life's ichi-go ichi-e (once-in-a-lifetime experiences). #Ikigai #GenZ #WorkLifeHarmony

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💡 Will Japan adopt a similar flexi-work guideline? 👨‍💼 Seeing plenty of compliments and opinions this week about the finalised announcement by the tripartite workgroup in Singapore. This is a huge step towards offering employees the channel to make an official case for increased working flexibility. 🚄 In the context of Japan, where rush hour train crowds, timings to drop off kids at the daycare, fixed working hours are common challenges that employees face, this will be a welcomed change. ➕ Companies who are early adopters or follow the framework closely may have the edge over talent attraction efforts too! https://lnkd.in/gZd-xG94

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