Unleash Your Potential by Being True to Yourself

Vincent was the first Singaporean to be made partner at PwC UK and a subject expert in developing and managing technology transformation and cyber resilience. His illustrious career has seen him take up stints at PwC, followed by Accenture, and the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). 

In his current role as Assistant Managing Director at MAS, he is responsible for technology transformation, data and AI, digital initiatives, cybersecurity and technology regulations. As a global thought leader, Vincent has led major growth studies for the Singapore government and also works closely with the World Economic Forum (WEF) on various financial service tech-related industry thought leadership.

When we asked about his formula for success, he shares that it starts with embracing your unique qualities to bravely forging your own path. 

Here’s more about his insights, nuggets of career wisdom and how being an NBS Alumnus has contributed to his growth.

After graduating with an Accountancy degree from NBS, I spent more than 20 years working in London and New York. Throughout my career, I was fortunate to work with many amazing people who taught me to be a better and more authentic version of myself every day. 

 

Thinking back, I knew little about technology when I first started financial auditing. I didn't even know how to switch on a desktop or laptop! Continuous learning is the key to success. I started delving deeper into technology. This path led me to become the first Singaporean to be admitted to the UK partnership and finally being appointed as leader of the UK Financial Services Technology Risk practice at PwC UK. 

In 2021, I was included in the WEF Agile 50 list, which recognises the contribution of individuals who drive agility in governments around the world to respond to rapid technological change.

The award recognised our efforts at MAS including creating more Fintech bridges than any other country and establishing the ASEAN Financial Innovation Network. The network supported the innovation and inclusion of financial services in less developed markets in ASEAN, providing a platform for collaboration and innovation for financial institutions and Fintech firms.

Be true to yourself. Define yourself rather than letting others define you. Be courageous to embrace your strengths and weaknesses. Forge your own path to unleash your potential, do the things that ignite your passion and talent. This will lead you towards finding purpose and meaning from which success and fulfilment will follow.

The world rewards the brave, so have the courage to ask for help. You don't have to be the smartest, but you must be brave to seek answers and clarity will give you certainty to act. 

Treat others how you want others to treat you. Take care of the people around you. Make a positive difference in the lives of people around you and always give people a chance. Help the less fortunate through acts of kindness and compassion. Give back to society towards building a better world.

NBS has been proactive in responding to the changes in our external environment and helping the alumni keep up-to-date with emerging trends such as Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG).  I have personally benefited from NBS’s sharing on such topics, so I encourage everyone to be connected with NBS for continuous learning.

Through the alumni network, I can reconnect with old friends and meet new ones. These social connections let us learn from the experiences of others and find like-minded individuals who can motivate us to stay on course.

Life is a journey that comes with its ups and downs. When you feel down, don’t be disheartened. Always learn from your mistakes, focus and work even harder, it will pay off. 

Be authentic and find the strength to overcome adversity with compassion and care for yourself and others. Things will get better!