The Real CEO (speaker #3)

Our group (group 3) was assigned to welcome and  introduce Mr. George Chua as our guest speaker last night. 

Mr. George Chua took his Mechanical and Industrial Management Engineering at De La Salle University. He also earned his MBA at UPenn's Wharton School.

He is serving as President for Federation of Philippine Industries (FPI) and Financial Executive Institute of the Philippines (FINEX) as well as the President and CEO of Bayan Automotive Industries Corporation (BAIC).

photo credit: Ms. Pia Manalastas

What would CEOs advise to their younger selves? This was the first video Mr. Chua showed to our class. In this video, I've learned that in doing something, don't hesitate to do it. Don't be afraid to do what is assigned to you. Think this as an opportunity to learn  and work for people. Be more creative and accept challenge.

What are the successful CEOs requisites? 
For Mr. Chua, here are the list of requisites based on his experience....
  -  Education and Training acquire at every opportunity
  -  Working SMART is better than working HARD
  -  Efficiency is the key
  -  Excellent communication skills a necessity
  -  Learn to play the part
  -  Networking is essential
  -  Positive thinking attracts luck
  -  Timing is everything
  -  See the big picture
  -  Know how to execute a plan and turn dreams into reality

I've learned that working SMART is very important. When working SMART you tried to figure out, if there is a better way, if there is an efficient way to do it, if there is an effective way to do it and if there is  a cheaper way in doing it. One of Mr. Chua's advise, to become a Chief Executive you should know how to manage your time; need to learn multi-tasking; and know how to speak - you speak for the institution - you are the face of the company and at the same time you represent the company. Positive thinking attracts luck that it open to opportunities and see good things.  In addition, when making a decision, sometimes you need to make bold decision. Involve in something you like and you understand. You should be the visionary and you should also need to know how to execute a plan, its' something like knowing where you're going.

What are the defining moments that Mr. Chua encountered as a CEO? 
CEO as the one who is in-charge....
   - Know what the problem is;
   - Make sure you have the authority;
   - Put your money where your mouth is;
   - Have a dream;
   - Come up with a strategy;
   - Execution;
   - Professional vs. owner

I now understand that being CEO, you should have first the authority to execute such as firing and hiring people. Be responsible for something, and to be responsible you should have the authority to do it. You need to know where you want to go and you need to come out with a strategy and visualize a road map. In executing, do it right with the right people.

photo credit: Mr. George Chua (with Ms. Pia Manalastas)

I truly adore our speaker especially when he appreciate the effort done by her daughter in selling BAIC vehicles. Her daughter sold 18 cars in one month and she just finished her marketing course in DLSU. For a fresh graduate who can sold 18 cars in just one month - that's the reason why Mr. Chua was very proud.