This audio was created using Microsoft Azure Speech Services
Meet Leong Hon Mun, our Sales Director for Process Automation Southeast Asia as he shares his 5 years journey at 
Schneider Electric.
Leong, a seasoned veteran in the Process Automation Industry is well known in this field for his accomplishments.
KK: What attracted you to join Schneider Electric when you had other offers in hand?
Leong: After having worked for 2 other major Process Automation vendors, I realized that the EcoStruxure framework incorporates both the Automation and Electrical in a collaborative and seamless fashion. This is a significant differentiator allowing me to further enhance my knowledge in aspects of an integrated portfolio. This tight combination makes it a strong value proposition.
KK: What were your goals when you joined Schneider Electric and did you manage to achieve them?
Leong: I wanted to build and develop a strong Sales team and personally wanted Southeast Asia to hit a certain challenging business value of MEuros mark. We are not there yet, but I believe we can achieve it soon.
KK: What was your greatest challenge?
Leong: The greatest challenge is to build and maintain a highly motivated and energetic Sales force because the competition is very stiff in Southeast Asia. Our best chance of being successful and growing year-on-year is our PEOPLE.
KK: How do you drive your Sales Team towards achieving their numbers in this unusual business situation?
Leong: I try to lead by example and be part of the pursuit as much as possible especially during the difficult parts of the pursuit, whether it’s customer-facing or an internal matter. I make a point to be in the trenches with my team all the way.
In addition, to provide guidance based on my experience, and always prepared to listen to alternate ideas, and not be fixated on a certain mindset. The status quo must and can be challenged for growth.
KK: Where do you find inspiration for yourself as a Leader?
Leong: The inspiration comes from one of Schneider’s core values i.e., “Act Like Owners”. I fully embrace the idea that I am like an entrepreneur and Process Automation is my business. As a business owner, I will do my best to make it thrive and grow.
KK: In your opinion, what are the 5 most important qualities of a leader in order to create a culture of flexibility and adaptability?
Leong: I can only think of 4, and I try as much as I can to ‘walk the talk’.
- Perseverance
- Ownership
- Situational Awareness
- People development
KK: What are the key takeaways?
Leong: There are still areas where I believe we can further improve and ‘step-up’ both technically & commercially. It becomes very evident that there will be competition and it can only get more intense with time and technology. Schneider must continue to be agile, alert, and instill ownership in everything we do.
Thank you Leong for taking the time to share your insight.
