“Preparedness, Precedes, Performance”. A personal motto in life for Thaddaeus Lee, our recent alumnus graduate for Master of Technology in Digital Leadership (MDL) and valedictorian at the NUS Commencement Ceremony 2025.
Thaddaeus traces this back to his time working in Japan, where a mentor impressed upon him the importance of the 5Ps: “Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance”. This phrase taught him that mental readiness is the key to success. For him, thorough preparation is not just a habit but the foundation for facing challenges and seizing opportunities with confidence and clarity. It is a discipline he practices daily and one he actively instils in his team to empower them toward greater performance.
A seasoned strategist in the financial services sector, Thaddaeus made the bold decision – that’s to return to the classroom after nearly two decades in the industry and challenge himself once again.
Having spent years driving initiatives in corporate strategy, digital transformation, fintech investment, and leadership development, Thaddaeus was no stranger to change. But as rapid technological shift, particularly in AI and data began transforming the entire industries, he knew it’s time to evolve.
“I wanted to future-proof myself,” he shares. “Technology is transforming how businesses operate, especially in areas like AI and data analytics. I faced challenges in effectively applying advanced technologies to real-world problems, so I decided to pursue the NUS-ISS Master of Technology in Digital Leadership programme. Its practical, industry-relevant curriculum aligned perfectly with my aspiration to strengthen my ability to bridge innovation and impact.”
His first connection with NUS-ISS came through the AXSI Digital Leadership Programme, co-curated by NUS-ISS and SMU in 2021. That glimpse into NUS-ISS teaching approach, which blends academic rigour with real-world insights, piqued his interest to explore further.
“The Master of Technology in Digital Leadership (MDL) stood out for its focus on applied learning, small class engagement, and strong industry linkages,” he says. “The quality of the faculty and guest speakers was exceptional. Learning from industry leaders with years of experience in digital transformation gave the programme a practical edge. What sets the programme apart from others is its unique blend of academic rigour and real-world applicability and its strong focus on hands-on and practitioner-driven approach. It’s designed for professionals like me. Someone who is keen to stay relevant, drive change, and make a meaningful difference.”
Of course, going back to school while working full-time was never easy. There were late nights, competing priorities, and moments of doubt. But what pulled Thaddaeus through was his discipline, the unwavering support of his peers and lecturers, and a deep inner drive to keep going.
To take his mind off the demands of a hectic curriculum, he made a conscious effort to catch up on reading, especially books on self-improvement and mindfulness. He also prioritises quality time with his family, whether through travel, exercise, or bonding over a good meal. “These moments of introspection help me grow both personally and professionally,” he shares. “They balance the gung-ho spirit I bring to leading my organisation, always with the 5Ps in mind.”
One of the most defining moments of his learning journey was leading a Capstone Project with E-Bridge Pre-School, a member of EtonHouse International Education Group. Thaddaeus and his team introduced GenieAI, an initiative designed to integrate AI to bridge the gaps between learning experiences and teaching effectiveness in early childhood education. GenieAI took home the Best Project Award for 2025, affirming how data-driven innovation can elevate both teaching and learning outcomes.
(Starting from left) Thaddaeus and his team mates Alden Neo and Charmaine Cheung won the 2025 Best Project Award for their capstone project.
“It wasn’t just about completing a deliverable. It was about tackling real-world challenges, bringing structure to ambiguity, and learning that persistence and teamwork matter most when things don’t go as planned,” he says. “Seeing the impact of our work resonate with stakeholders who appreciated not just the practicality, but the thoughtfulness of our recommendations felt deeply rewarding.”
Now as the Managing Director (Head of Strategy) at Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation Asia Pacific, Thaddaeus applies what he learned every day - whether it’s embedding agile practices, leading through uncertainty, or designing strategies grounded in data and empathy.
As he reflects on the journey, Thaddaeus shares: “MDL has taught me to embrace uncertainty, lead with empathy, and turn challenges into opportunities. It wasn’t just a professional milestone. It was a personal transformation, empowering me to navigate complexity, inspire collaboration, and drive meaningful change in a digital-first world. This journey reminded me that true leadership isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about being brave enough to ask the right questions and bold enough to act on them.”
To aspiring learners, his advice is simple. “Be brave enough to try something new. Embrace the discomfort of growth. Speak up. Show up. And trust that every step you take - even the hard ones will move you forward.”
For Thaddaeus, the journey at NUS-ISS wasn’t just about earning a master’s degree. It was about rewiring the way he thinks, leads, and creates change.
Visit here for more information on Master of Technology in Digital Leadership. Interested in a flexible study option? Learn more about the NUS-ISS’ Stackable Graduate Certificate Programme in Digital Leadership which stacks up towards the Master of Technology in Digital Leadership degree.