Always with a ready smile, Emily has the ability to put people at ease instantly. It has to do much with her genuine and lively personality as well as her gentle but firm diplomacy in dealing with different groups of people. Married with two children aged 27 and 26 years old, Emily loves travelling and bonding with her family and close friends over meals and hi-tea.

1. Tell us a little about yourself.

I originally started as a private secretary and later became an executive secretary for a company in office equipment and automation. I was subsequently given an opportunity in human resources by my previous employer and I took on this additional role on top of my secretarial and administrative portfolio. Then in 1996, I took on the full-fledged HR function, together with administrative and finance work scope, when I joined an interior design firm. I’ve been in the interior design industry ever since.

2. Tell us a little about what you do in Kyoob-id.

In general, I work with the management on all company policies and objectives in support of the business strategy. I’d meet with managers to discuss on staff’s training needs, compensation, performance evaluations and recruitment. Making sure that employees understand company’s rules and regulations and answering their queries relating to HR matters is also part of my scope. In the area of Finance, I’d work with departmental heads on budgeting and expense monitoring and forecasting of cash flow statements among others.

3. What do you think is the most important attribute for your role?

Possessing sharp insight into the subtleties of people’s personalities, adaptability, and flexibility especially involving people; being organised and systematic and having a true enjoyment working with people are some attributes of this role.

4. If you’re not doing what you’re doing now, you’re likely to be a psychologist.