When Eng Hong first entered the world of higher education, his sights were firmly set on technology. Graduating with a degree in Computer Science, he was well-versed in the language of code and technical solutions. But it was not long before he realised that to truly understand the impact of technology, he needed a broader lens - one that included the business world.
This train of thought led him to the Singapore Institute of Management (SIM), where he pursued an Advanced Diploma in Business Administration. "I wanted to broaden my perspective and understand how businesses operate, particularly within the IT sector," he recalls. The diploma was a pivotal move, enabling him to complement his technical background with a more well-rounded perspective.
The Career Evolution
SIM was where Eng Hong learned to see beyond lines of code and into the heartbeat of business: finance, marketing, sales, and the people behind it all. "This diploma enabled me to complement my technical background with a more holistic view of the business environment," he says.
The journey was not easy. Juggling full-time work and night classes twice a week required discipline and sacrifice. Yet, the experience was enriching. "I had the chance to network with people who shared similar interests and came from a similar technical background," he reflects. The connections and learning from SIM helped pave the way for him to eventually pursue an MBA, further preparing him for leadership roles.
Reflecting on his journey, Eng Hong credits SIM for more than just giving him an education; it gave him the perspective and confidence to step beyond his comfort zone and lead with purpose. "I learned about how running a business goes far beyond the technical aspects," he shares. "Marketing, managing people, and handling finances are equally important." That insight opened doors, turning a technical professional into a commercial leader.
Leadership by Principles
Now, as Deloitte Southeast Asia's Chief Commercial Officer, Eng Hong leads a complex operation spanning ten ASEAN countries. His role requires balancing strategic vision with practical execution and client-first leadership: listening deeply, crafting tailored solutions, and rallying talent across borders. "We are one integrated firm across the region so that we can collaborate seamlessly across geographies," he explains.
For Eng Hong, leadership is not defined by titles or hierarchy; it is about values lived every day. He champions four guiding principles: put clients at the centre, care deeply for your team, lead by example, and embrace lifelong learning.
Yet, managing diverse teams with different strengths and perspectives remains one of his greatest challenges. "To overcome this, I focus on understanding the strengths and weaknesses of my team members. Based on that, I assemble the best combination of skills and perspectives to ensure that we tackle challenges effectively and deliver innovative and quality solutions that are expected of us," Eng Hong notes. This approach has helped him steer teams to innovate and deliver excellence.
Purpose Beyond Profit
Beyond the boardroom, Eng Hong channels his passion for positive impact through the Trailblazer Foundation, a cause close to his heart. Inspired by the founder's vision, he joined the organisation two years ago to help break cycles of poverty through education and empowerment. The foundation focuses on children and women in need, providing sponsorships that unlock opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach.
Eng Hong recalls a memorable case from early in his tenure - funding treatment for a toddler with a serious medical condition. "Seeing the direct impact of our work reaffirmed my decision to join the foundation," he recalls. His professional experience also shapes his philanthropic outlook. "Through my work, I've done consulting projects for large charities and witnessed firsthand how they have benefited society. Seeing how these organisations drive meaningful change has inspired me to do my part as well," he says.
He believes leaders have a duty to nurture future generations, not just within their organisations but also for the broader community. "Leaders have a responsibility to nurture the next generation by mentoring and coaching them," Eng Hong stresses. He sees education as the most powerful lever for societal change, equipping individuals with tools and opportunities to improve their lives.
Looking forward, Eng Hong envisions the foundation expanding beyond Singapore to reach more vulnerable communities across Southeast Asia to create a lasting impact.
Lessons in Leadership and Empowerment
Two habits have helped Eng Hong remain focused and resilient throughout his career. "First, I focus on doing my best in the role that I have been entrusted with by giving it my full commitment. Second, I remain adaptable to change. I actively learn from my own mistakes and the mistakes of others and use these lessons to become better."
For those aspiring to leadership, Eng Hong offers clear advice on creating value not just for business but also for people and communities, beginning early in one's career and remaining at the core of one's leadership journey. He highlights adaptability as a core survival skill in today's fast-changing world. "We must constantly evolve by learning from the past and adapting to become better, more resilient and future-ready."
From coding classrooms to regional leadership, his story is a compelling example that broadening horizons and embracing lifelong learning are key to thriving in today's world. His journey also reflects how SIM helps individuals maximise their potential through flexible learning pathways that cater to different stages of personal and professional growth. For Eng Hong, the Advanced Diploma in Business Administration at SIM enabled him to augment his strong technical foundation.
For others, it could be a diploma, a degree, or professional development programmes tailored to fit around work and life commitments. Whatever the pathway, SIM’s goal remains the same: to equip learners with the skills, confidence, and adaptability to go further than they ever imagined, just like Eng Hong.