Strength, flexibility and discipline are core traits to Christina's two loves - aerial silks and hiking. Also a fan of Spartan races, read on as we sat with Christina in this issue, to find out what fuels her adrenaline - in and outside of work!
1. Hi Christina, please tell us about your professional background:
I have been in the education arena for more than 17 years, in which I have worked in both private and autonomous universities locally and internationally.
I was transferred from NUS Business School where I head the Programme Management team of Executive Education. My role includes providing leadership to the Programme Operations, Finance and Facilities & Operations teams and providing P&L updates for management review. Prior to joining NUS, I was with INSEAD heading the Admissions in Asia Campus for Global EMBA Asia Programme, Tsinghua-INSEAD EMBA and Executive Master in Finance programmes. I travelled extensively for my role and have spoken at conferences like Executive MBA Council in Hong Kong and Seattle.
Throughout my years in education industry, I’ve experienced many different roles in the education institution including Marketing, Business Development, Admissions and Course Operations where I realised my strengths in Admissions and Course Operations.
2. Could you share more about what you do and how this facilitates and impacts organisational/staff development?
My primary role is to provide professional/technical leadership, consultation, and expertise within the programme's area of focus, as well as day-to-day administrative and functional management of the programme's activities and staff. I also set direction, develop and implement work scopes and related operational policies and procedures that are aligned with ISS’s strategic goals, core values and help to identify talent for staff development.
3. What do you enjoy most about your work?
There are so many things I like about my work, my team, my colleagues and the improvement plan I have for the team and organisation. But what I think I enjoy most is when we see how the fruition of our ideas bring about results and the team bond as one.
4. How do you keep up with the industry?
It can be challenging to keep up with the industry when the evolving change is so dynamic. I do receive articles from McKinsey, BCG, HRM for industry developments and get most of my updates from LinkedIn too.
5. What are your favorite activities when you are not working?
I started aerial silks 3 years ago and never turn back since and I hope I can still do this when I am 70. 😊 I train at least 2 times a week and the rest of week, I will fill it with other form of exercise including running, long walks, yoga and weight training. I love to hike and will find time to hike at different locations.
"I miss the runs I used to participate and if possible, I would like to attempt a Spartan race again"
6. Share something about yourself that very few people know.
I can cook and have been cooking for family every Lunar New Year and special occasions. Not known to many, I do draw if I have more time at hand.