Asia’s Best COOs 2024
In the latest issue of TradeFlock, “Asia’s Best COOs 2024,” we celebrate the visionary leaders who are the backbone of Asia’s economic dynamism. This edition highlights the Chief Operating Officers whose strategic acumen and operational excellence have propelled their organisations to new heights. With Asia contributing over 40% to the global GDP and experiencing a remarkable 6% annual growth rate, these best Asian COOs are at the forefront of this economic surge. Best COOs in Asia have navigated their companies through the complexities of a post-pandemic world and driven innovation, efficiency, and sustainability. From leveraging cutting-edge technologies to optimising supply chains, top COOs in Asia are the unsung heroes behind Asia’s robust economic performance. Dive into their stories and discover how their persistent quest for excellence shapes the business’s future in Asia.
Joao De Melo is a visionary leader who seamlessly integrates advanced technologies like AI and robotics into operations, driving efficiency and cost management. With over two decades of experience in engineering and construction, he consistently exceeds industry standards in quality and performance. Joao’s leadership fosters innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to superior service.
Alex has played a pivotal role in driving the company’s transformation into Southeast Asia’s leading superapp since January 2022. With a track record of success at SATS and HSBC, Alex blends strategic vision with operational excellence, overseeing Grab’s mobility, deliveries, and financial services. His leadership has been instrumental in scaling Grab’s ecosystem, launching digital banking initiatives, and enhancing user engagement.
Chong Fhui brings a unique blend of expertise from finance, entertainment, and gaming to drive the company’s success. His leadership has resulted in groundbreaking innovations such as cashless self-service checkouts and mobile platforms, enhancing customer experience and loyalty. With a strong focus on regulatory compliance and financial stability, Chong has positioned Magnum 4D as a leader in Asia’s competitive gaming industry.
Dwi Hatmadji serves as the Chief Operating Officer of PT ABC President Indonesia, embodying the mantra that “customer is king.” His extensive background with industry leaders like Coca-Cola and British American Tobacco has shaped his strategic approach, focusing on the H.A.I.R. principles—Helicopter View, Agility, Innovation, and Relevance. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dwi showcased remarkable resilience, turning challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation.
Ilanga brings over 28 years of experience in manufacturing and operational excellence. His journey began with a degree in textile engineering in Sri Lanka and evolved through key roles at MAS Holdings and Bodyline Pvt. Ltd., where he honed his skills in industrial engineering and automation. Ilanga integrates advanced technologies and lean manufacturing principles to enhance operational efficiency and foster a collaborative work environment.
Jefri is a visionary leader known for integrating sustainability with operational excellence. His forward-thinking initiatives, including digital transformation and green terminal ecosystems, set industry benchmarks in energy efficiency and smart technology. With a focus on water conservation and data-driven insights, Jefri has enhanced operational performance while championing environmental responsibility.
Karim is a transformative leader with over 24 years of experience in the F&B and hospitality sectors. Renowned for his strategic insight and hands-on approach, Karim excels in driving operational efficiency, brand innovation, and customer satisfaction. His successful turnaround of underperforming brands highlights his commitment to growth and people development, fostering high-performing teams that consistently exceed targets.
Marina is renowned for her customer-centric approach and operational excellence. With a career built on streamlining processes and driving digital transformation, she has integrated cutting-edge technologies like AI and blockchain to enhance customer experiences. Her leadership fosters collaboration and innovation, while her strategic foresight positions HSBC at the forefront of the banking industry.
Mohammad Al-Kharafi is renowned for his transformative leadership and commitment to innovation in the banking sector. With a career that began in customer service, he has progressed through various roles, now spearheading NBK’s ambitious digital transformation initiatives. His executive education from HBS complements his strategic foresight, enabling him to integrate advanced technologies while fostering a culture of creativity and continuous improvement.
Ravi Jain serves as the Chief Operating Officer of Simple Approach, where his strategic leadership is transforming the apparel industry. With a solid foundation in finance from Citibank NA India, he advanced to establish the risk department at PDS Limited in Hong Kong, overseeing a substantial treasury portfolio. His shift from banking to fashion emphasised the importance of fostering a supportive, team-driven culture, which has led to significant growth for the company.