
As the Centre Director
of International Enterprise Singapore’s (IE Singapore) overseas centre in
Manila, Darren Lee is part of the action driving international trade and
partnering with Singapore companies to go global. With a keen interest in public
service and the global marketplace, Darren believed that IE Singapore was the
choice organisation for him.
Well-developed
Professional Development
Darren’s journey
started when he was awarded the IE Singapore Mid-Term Scholarship. This
scholarship opened many doors for him and he experienced firsthand IE
Singapore’s work in the global marketplace, particularly during his stint in
Chengdu, China.
“The opportunity to do
an overseas internship and witness the mechanics of international business and
trade was very exciting! I supported the bilateral council for the Singapore
Sichuan Trade and Investment Committee Meeting. It was particularly memorable
and meaningful as I saw the mechanisms that Singapore established to strengthen
trade and investments between both countries. The council is certainly a
feasible avenue to assist our companies on this journey,” he recalls.
Apart from
undergraduate internships, Darren has also benefited from a series of Global
Executive Programmes (GEPs) that IE Singapore conducts to integrate new staff
into the organisation. “These programmes provided me with useful insights to
the organisation and its vibrant work culture. There was even an in-market
portion where I got to visit Ascendas India to understand the challenges they
faced. It is inspiring to hear how the project team overcame local challenges
and executed the project. It was a reminder that internationalisation involves
stepping out of one’s comfort zone and understanding the local context. The
local view is crucial in identifying feasible solutions in overseas markets,”
Darren shares.
A Dynamic Career Path
As a Centre Director
in Manila, Darren works with his team to facilitate a Singapore company’s expansion
plan in the Philippines, advising them on product offerings and market entry
strategies. He also works closely with the Philippines government agencies to
identify ways to streamline Singapore’s capabilities in the sector and with
Philippines-based companies to encourage them to trade with Singapore. Darren’s
work also involves building a network of business contacts who will offer
useful advice and support for Singapore companies who are planning to operate
in the Philippines.
One of Darren’s most
memorable moments during his career thus far would be the launch of a project
which helped companies in the e-commerce sector source for opportunities. The process of bringing the project to life
was challenging, one that required him to persevere, think fast and show
tremendous initiative, but Darren is glad that he persevered and succeeded.
He adds that his
progressive career is partly due to his seniors and teammates at IE Singapore.
He says, “Without their expertise, I would not have been able to pick up the
necessary competencies fast enough to provide meaningful assistance.”
In his previous role
with the Transport & Logistics Division, Darren was in charge of the
industry development of the e-commerce and fulfilment sector. Here he worked
closely with senior level executives of high potential companies, advising
companies on product offerings and market entry strategy. The team also worked
closely with other government agencies and identified ways to streamline
Singapore’s capabilities in the sector.
Words of Advice
Darren
advises students hoping to join IE Singapore to be receptive to new ideas and
to be open to change. “Find your niche and work hard to excel in what you set
your mind to. The culture at IE Singapore is extremely energetic and we try
different things and experiment with new ideas. If you think that you are up
for the challenge, this is the place for you.”