Loudie Jay Falguera

Balancing Innovation and Stability

Loudie Jay Falguera

Chief Financial Officer,

The Standard Hospitality Group

The Asian financial landscape presents a formidable array of challenges, including intricate regulatory environments, volatile currency markets, and rapid technological advancements. Navigating this demanding ecosystem requires leaders like Loudie Jay Falgurera, CFO of The Standard Hospitality Group, who skilfully turn these complexities into growth opportunities. Driven from a young age by a desire to positively impact lives, Loudie discovered that finance was a powerful means to this end. His early career in auditing and financial management provided a deep understanding of organisational processes and financial strategies, shaping his leadership approach. Progressing through roles in accounting and financial planning, Loudie refined his skills in strategic oversight, leading him to his role as CFO of The Standard Hospitality Group. In his previous role as CFO at a leading FMCG Distribution company in the Philippines, Loudie has driven significant transformation, modernising the finance function with digital tools like robotic process automation (RPA) and Power BI. These innovations have bolstered operational efficiency and strategic insight, strengthening the company’s market position. His leadership balances financial stability with innovation, enabling the company to thrive despite the region’s unique challenges. Loudie’s emphasis on mentorship and continuous improvement highlights his commitment to financial success and community impact. His comprehensive understanding of the Asian market’s intricacies and his holistic approach to leadership distinguish him among Asia’s top CFOs. Speaking with TradeFlock, Loudie shares his experience and journey so far.

What led you to become CFO at The Standard Hospitality Group, and how did your early career shape this role?

My early career in auditing and financial management laid the foundation for my current role as CFO at The Standard Hospitality Group. As an auditor, I gained a broad perspective on organisational processes and financial data. Transitioning into financial planning, I refined my ability to convert complex strategies into actionable insights. This background paved the way for my advancement to CFO, aligning with the company’s mission to create momentous experiences to Filipinos through well-crafted dishes, paired with unparalleled hospitality. My leadership, team management skills, and core values of passion, excellence and innovation guide my efforts to drive strategic growth and contribute to nation-building

How do you balance financial stability with innovation and growth?

Balance financial stability with innovation involves aligning growth initiatives with strategic goals and assessing their viability. By evaluating investments, managing risks, and leveraging data insights, we support stability while driving growth and innovation through a well-defined budget and ongoing performance monitoring.

How does the CFO role in Asia differ, and what opportunities does the region's evolving economy offer?

In Asia, CFOs face distinct challenges such as complex and varied regulatory environments, volatile currency markets, and the rapid pace of digital transformation. Additionally, fierce competition for talent and the need for flexible work arrangements add to the complexity. While the core responsibilities of a CFO are similar globally, these regional challenges require tailored strategies and a deep understanding of the local landscape. Conversely, Asia’s evolving economy presents significant opportunities for multinational companies. The region offers access to rapidly growing markets, a diverse talent pool, and increasing consumer demand. Companies can also benefit from technological advancements and favourable trade agreements, which can enhance market presence and drive regional growth.

What achievements and strategies are you most proud of as Group CFO?

As a CFO, I’m most proud of transforming our finance function into a digitally enabled powerhouse. Key achievements include building a stronger team and fostering collaboration across the company. We implemented digital transformation initiatives, such as RPA and Power BI tools, enhancing our financial operations’ effectiveness and efficiency. These technologies streamlined workflows, improved decision-making, and drove strategic insights, empowering our team to focus on higher-value activities. This modernisation has contributed significantly to making our organisation more agile and responsive to growth opportunities.

What unique challenges do you face as a CFO in Asia, and how do you manage them?

As CFO in the dynamic Asian financial landscape, I tackle diverse challenges, including complex regulatory environments, currency fluctuations, and the push for digital transformation. To stay ahead, we continuously adapt to regulations, drive digital finance advancements, and employ strategies to mitigate currency risks. Attracting and retaining top talent is crucial, so we offer and cultivate a supportive environment. By blending effective project management with a focus on innovation and team performance, we turn these challenges into opportunities, ensuring robust financial health and fostering growth in our organisation.

How has mentorship influenced your career and personal growth?

Mentorship has been vital to my career and personal growth. Mentors provide invaluable guidance, helping me navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and balance various aspects of life. Their support extends beyond career advice, influencing financial management, family dynamics, and health. Overall, mentorship ensures thoughtful decision-making and a well-rounded approach to success.