Dr Barry Thng
CEO & executive chairman
Alliance Healthcare Group
How do you describe yourself as a leader?
I am a quiet leader, not a flamboyant leader. I make sure that all the employees understand where we are going and why we are going in that direction. I also spend a lot of time communicating with employees to find out what is the best fit for them at work as different people have different strengths. Hence, I spend quite a bit of time talking to them, so that they do things that they like and that they can shine at.
Another thing I focus on is how to gel the team together so that we can work towards a common goal. Many of them are very capable, but we all have egos. But how do you gel a team so that these strong personalities can put away their egos and work together for a common goal.
What is your proudest achievement at work?
Over the years, we have been able to assemble a team of highly competent doctors, nurses and administrators, align our visions and subdue individual egos to work towards the common goals of the company.
What is your biggest employee-related challenge that you face now?
Competing with established companies for the limited talent available.
How do you relate to the multi-generational workforce as head of the company?
Through open communication and creating a work culture that encourages candour.
What questions do you ask of job candidates?
“What kind of work culture, job scope that will make you shine?”, “What are your career goals for the next five to 10 years?” and “What can the company do to keep you with the us?”
What is one piece of career advice you would give to an employee now?
It is to be more patient, focus more on upgrading of skill and expertise rather that merely looking at wages.
How do you manage your time?
I work best in the morning. Morning is a time where I do quiet thinking and reflect on the business. And with proper planning, it makes it easier for me to prioritise and have clarity of mind.
What do you enjoy about your work?
I enjoy being at the frontier of the corporate healthcare industry and setting new industry benchmarks.
