Last month, the last part of the Leadership in Commodity and Trade Networks kicked off in Singapore. The programme lasted for five days. Here's a summary of the week:
Day 1: Leadership & Geopolitics III
The Leadership in Commodity Trade and Supply Networks programme began its Singapore segment with a day focused on leadership and culture in Asia. Participants explored Singapore’s emergence as a global trading hub through insights shared by Churn Yuen Poon from the Export Trading Group. Kaho Yu provided a detailed analysis of Southeast Asia’s geopolitical balancing act and its leadership implications, while Sebastian Anthony examined the role of Asian culture in shaping leadership approaches. Venkat concluded the day with a presentation on the “8 I Way of Life,” offering valuable leadership strategies rooted in corporate finance and global experience. The day ended on a high note with networking over a seafood dinner at Jumbo Seafood, fostering connections and conversations among attendees.
Day 2: Sustainability III: Decarbonization and Shifting Energy Markets
On the second day of the Leadership in Commodity Trade and Supply Networks programme, the focus shifted to sustainability and decarbonization within evolving energy markets. The day began with participants presenting their final Scenario Planning projects, showcasing their insights and strategic thinking.
Camillus Yang from aNew Energy led a session on "The Green Transition and Optionality," sparking engaging discussions on how energy markets and businesses can adapt to the demands of sustainability. After lunch, four representatives from BHP provided a series of insightful talks. Michiel Hover offered an overview of BHP’s operations, while Lee Levkowitz shared the company’s journey toward operational decarbonization. Ben Ellis elaborated on BHP’s progress in Scope 3 decarbonization efforts, and Sam Farrell discussed copper’s long-term market fundamentals and its importance in the energy transition.
The day concluded with further conversations over drinks at Liberty Singapore, providing an opportunity for participants to engage with BHP leaders and deepen their understanding of sustainability in practice.
Day 3: Technology & Innovation III: Dynamic Capabilities & Innovation
On the third day of the Leadership in Commodity Trade and Supply Networks programme, participants explored the themes of dynamic capabilities and innovation as essential tools for staying ahead in competitive markets. The day began with a session led by Dr. Tan Wee Liang from SMU, who guided participants through the concept of organizational agility and its importance in navigating rapidly changing environments.
Later, an inspiring panel on Business Disruption and Leadership featured insights from industry experts Paul Bloemendal and Jan-Willem Otten, who shared their experiences and strategies for driving innovation in the face of disruption.
The discussions were thought-provoking and left participants with valuable perspectives on fostering innovation from within their organizations, making it a day rich with learning and inspiration.
Day 4: Risk & Compliance III: Risk & Compliance in Business
The focus of the day in the Leadership in Commodity Trade and Supply Networks programme was on risk, compliance, and strategic business decision-making. The session began with a case study on the acquisition of a mining asset, led by Ang Ser Keng from SMU. This hands-on exercise delved into critical aspects such as financing, tax considerations, and negotiation strategies.
Later, participants visited Abazz Exchange, where Nancy Seah and Shan Mei Lim shared insights into the evolution of next-generation commodities exchanges, providing a forward-looking perspective on trading and market innovation.
The day concluded with drinks at LeVeL33, where participants enjoyed a stunning view and engaged in meaningful discussions with Jeffrey Snoong, COO APAC at Trafigura, reflecting on the day’s key learnings in a relaxed setting.
Day 5: Leadership & Continuous Growth: Athentic Leadership & Growth
The final day of the Leadership in Commodity Trade and Supply Networks programme centered on Authentic Leadership and the significance of continuous growth, both personally and professionally. Dr. Hannes Leroy returned to lead a thought-provoking session on authentic leadership, encouraging participants to engage in deep self-reflection and embrace their unique leadership styles.
Participants also explored strategies for sustaining personal and professional growth in a world of constant change, equipping them to maintain their leadership momentum. The programme concluded with a heartfelt final debrief, celebrating the wealth of knowledge, meaningful connections, and innovative ideas shared throughout the week.
Next year, this programme will return. You can sign up now! Click here for more information.
