Up Close with Steven Chin, General Manager/Director of Herbalife Nutrition Malaysia
Steven Chin, the General Manager/Director of Herbalife Nutrition Malaysia is a business leader who is both experienced and adaptive. He understands the importance of continuous growth and improvement in order to meet the changing times and new markets.
1. How would you describe your management style?
It has evolved over time and experience. Initially, it was a more empowering style of management; today, I am more conscious of team members at various degrees of development hence depending on the task assigned, the approach may vary from coaching to empowering.
2. Who inspires you the most and why? How have you incorporated this into your daily life?
There are a few role models – from a management lecturer who counseled that every debate has valid opposing viewpoints thus avoid jumping to conclusions and decide only after assessing various viewpoints, to my father who through his own experiences have taught me the virtues of patience and perseverance. Finally to some incredible people in Herbalife Nutrition that truly inspired me in helping others get healthier and happier.
3. How do you see your organization changing in two years, and how do you see yourself creating/being a part of that change?
It is obvious that the Millennial generation and technology advancements are powering rapid changes in businesses internally and externally. My role would be to ensure that we continue to maintain the agility to adapt, evolve and leverage these changes. This can only be achieved through propagating a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and experimentation.
4. Tell me about an accomplishment or a memorable incident that shaped your career.
At one point in my career, I was promoted to lead the operations of a substantial healthcare distribution service provider. Then, we were trailing in second place behind the leading competitor in terms of client satisfaction. While others saw the impossibility or challenges in leading the industry, I approached it differently by focusing on strengthening the service fundamentals while always keeping pulse with the needs of our clients. Within 2 years, we led the market and many clients switched over. In essence, you can hardly go wrong once you know your clients’ needs and get the fundamentals right in meeting those needs.
5. What would we be surprised to learn about you?
No surprises, I would be surprised if there was anything surprising to learn about me.
6. What book are you reading or podcast you most recommend?
It would be hard to pinpoint a single favorite as a few book titles were instrumental in shaping my thinking process including Who Moved My Cheese?, Seven Habits of Highly Successful People, The 22 Immutable Laws of Marketing, Rich Dad Poor Dad…etc.
7. What do you do for fun?
Mountain-biking. There are some amazing trails around Klang Valley and usually, over the weekend I try to get out to the trails and ride. Also, our family welcomed a new addition – baby Vienna, last year; she’s such a bundle of joy. It’s definitely fun every time I spend time with her.
