From Swiss Precision to Asia's Buzz: Christoph’s journey.

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We spoke to Christoph Moellers, who has recently joined our advisory team in Asia. Our conversation led us to explore his journey in the region and his biggest lessons. Christoph's adventure reads like a thrilling novel, starting in the late '90s when he embarked on a global project that brought him to the serene beauty of Sri Lanka to the dynamic streets of China, with numerous stops in between. His narrative isn't just about the places; it's about the heartbeat of Asia, where tradition meets innovation at every corner.

David: Christoph, over the decades, the Asia Pacific region has undergone a remarkable transformation. Countries once considered “hardship posts” have evolved into preferred expat destinations. Can you share your initial impressions from your first mandate in Asia? Where was it?

Christoph: My adventure in Asia kicked off in the late '90s with a massive global project that had me hopping from Sri Lanka to New Zealand, with Singapore as my base. Singapore was like "Asia 101" for me, blending the East and West in ways that reminded me of home, Switzerland. Both places prize quality, multiculturalism, and innovation, making my transition into Asia as smooth as a Swiss watch. Despite the hectic travel schedule, which barely let me settle anywhere, I soaked up every bit of culture and work dynamic, turning the so-called "hardship posts" into opportunities to grow and learn. Every place had its charm and challenges, but to me, it was all about embracing the opportunities and the people I met along the way.

David: How has your leadership philosophy evolved over your tenure as CEO, and what key lessons have you learned about leading a diverse and dynamic region like Asia Pacific?

Christoph: Leading in Asia has been a rollercoaster of learning about cultural nuances and diversity. Initially, I was as green as they come, but thanks to the wisdom of those around me, I gradually got the hang of it. One thing that struck me was the need to support and elevate women in the workplace, leading me to favor projects with a gender ratio in favor of female contributors. Trust has always been my mantra, but Asia taught me the fine art of verification, thanks to the subtleties of communication here. Acting as a bridge between the global HQ and local practices has been one of my most fulfilling roles, blending different perspectives into a coherent, successful strategy. It's been about learning, adapting, and, most importantly, collaborating across cultures.

David: Looking back, what were some of the most significant strategic challenges you faced in the Asia Pacific market, and how did you address them?

Christoph: The biggest eye-opener in Asia was the speed of the market—things move fast here, with an optimism that's both infectious and intimidating. Balancing corporate strategies with local realities became my prime challenge, especially in understanding when to tailor our approach to fit unique market demands. My role often felt like being a translator, making sure the HQ and local teams were on the same page, and tempering local ambition with a dose of realism. It was a delicate dance of aligning global visions with local actions, all while ensuring we didn't bite off more than we could chew.

David: From your experience, what are the unique characteristics of the Asia Pacific market that multinational companies should be aware of when crafting their business strategies?

Christoph: The APAC market is a complex puzzle, with each piece having its own unique shape and color. The mistake many make is trying to apply a one-size-fits-all strategy across such a varied landscape. Success here requires a deep dive into local cultures, consumer behaviors, and economic conditions. It's about crafting strategies that are as diverse as the region itself, ensuring that we respect and respond to local nuances while still pushing our global brand forward. The key is flexibility, local insight, and a commitment to understanding each market's distinct personality.

David: Can you share an example of an innovation or strategic pivot that was particularly successful in the Asia Pacific region under your tenure? What drove its success?

Christoph: One of the standout moments was shifting the mindset from "exporting our way" to "in Asia, for Asia." It wasn't always easy to convince everyone to adapt our strategies to meet local needs more closely, but with persistence, a great team, and a heap of data to back up our claims, we started to see real success. This pivot wasn't just about changing products or marketing strategies; it was about changing our whole approach to business in Asia. The success of this initiative wasn't overnight, but it taught us the value of local adaptation and the power of believing in your strategy.

David: We’re living in a time of crises. Supply chain issues, shortness of raw-materials. How have you navigated leadership during times of crisis or significant market change, and what advice would you give to current leaders facing similar situations?

Christoph: Leading through crises like the Financial Crisis and Covid-19 has taught me the importance of a supportive corporate culture. A hire-and-fire approach just doesn't cut it when the going gets tough. Instead, creating an environment where risk-taking is encouraged and mistakes are forgiven has been key to building resilience. Stability, long-term vision, and a focus on nurturing talent are what help an organization stand strong in the face of adversity. My advice to leaders in similar situations is to focus on building a culture that can weather any storm, emphasizing the well-being and growth of your team.

David: Based on your experience and insights, what emerging trends do you believe will shape the future of the industry in Asia Pacific?

Christoph: The future of Asia Pacific is being shaped by a blend of geopolitical shifts, economic realignments, and a burgeoning sense of nationalism. Despite the skepticism towards China and the challenges this brings, the region's resilience and dynamism shouldn't be underestimated. Smaller countries are stepping up, seizing opportunities to redefine their global standing. The sheer energy and determination of the population here are driving innovation and growth, making Asia a region full of potential and promise for the future, despite the current uncertainties.

David: What advice would you give to someone stepping into a CEO or board member role in Asia Pacific for the first time?

Christoph: For those stepping into leadership roles in Asia Pacific, it's vital to immerse yourself in understanding the region's diversity and complexity. New leaders, especially from outside Asia, should prioritize listening over speaking to grasp the intricacies of local markets and cultures. Surround yourself with knowledgeable mentors to help navigate these waters. For veterans of Asia, remember the landscape is changing—growth isn't as automatic as it used to be, and success now demands innovation and adaptability. Regardless of your background, building and maintaining strong connections with the global headquarters is crucial, advocating for the region's needs and potential. The essence is to bridge global strategies with local insights, creating a synergy that respects and leverages the unique attributes of the Asia Pacific markets.

David: Reflecting on your career, what do you hope will be the lasting impact of your tenure as CEO in the Asia Pacific region?

Christoph: I hope my legacy in Asia Pacific is seen through the growth and success of the people I've worked with. It's been incredibly rewarding to mentor young, ambitious executives and see them flourish, even if it means they eventually move beyond our organization. Leadership isn't just about making tough calls; it's about doing so with compassion and respect, always aiming to put individuals on a path that's right for them. If my tenure is remembered for creating a culture where people feel valued, supported, and empowered to grow, then I'll consider my mission accomplished.

David: In my view, leadership competencies play a crucial role in navigating a dynamic and diverse region such as Asia Pacific. In your experience as a previous CEO and board member. which is the most important competency for a leader to succeed in this region?

Christoph: The most crucial competency for leading successfully in Asia is cultural sensitivity, paired with authenticity. Understanding and embracing the diverse cultures of this region is the foundation of effective leadership. Being genuine in your interactions builds trust, a critical component in a region as varied as Asia Pacific. Humility is also key; it shows respect for local ways and opens doors to deeper connections with people. It's about being a person first, a CEO second, and always being open to learning from the rich tapestry of cultures around you.