IBM turns on loyalty and integrity
Pretty much a one-company man, Tony Tai started as a trainee with global IT giant IBM back in 1980, after getting an engineering degree and an MBA from the University of Hong Kong. Tai worked as a salesman and then marketing manager in the city before moving in 1991 to IBM’s Asia-Pacific headquarters in Tokyo, where he served as administrative assistant to some of the company’s senior vice-presidents and gained insights into the company’s financial operations in the region. In 1994, he worked for IBM’s newly formed Greater China Group, which aimed to consolidate operations in Hong Kong, Taiwan and China. After a stint as general manager for IBM Hong Kong, Tai moved to Beijing in 2002 to run the Greater China Group’s marketing department. In 2006, he took charge of the company’s east China and central China operations. Early this year, he returned to Hong Kong to assume the responsibilities of general manager for IBM China and Hong Kong. He talks to John Brennan.
What are your day-to-day duties?
My primary responsibility is to oversee the operations of IBM Hong Kong which was established in 1957. I focus on the strategic side of the business, helping to create value for our customers. They are now more aware of what they want in a company like IBM. They want higher value offerings, comprising products, services and solutions.
What do you particularly enjoy about your new job?
Together with the whole company, I’m trying to give our customers good value and help them to be successful. I’m happiest when I see our customers succeed in their own industries and build up a competitive edge. I believe if all the enterprises in Hong Kong become more competitive and successful, this will help improve the life of the people.
What makes you stick with IBM?
This is a question I’m always asked. IBM is not only an innovative company but also one that focuses on employee development. In the early stages of my career, I focused a lot on my learning and self-development, and IBM provided me with a lot of opportunities. I’m now able to give something back using what I’ve learned, to help develop the next generation of leaders for IBM. And I’ve f