To give prospective talents an inside view, we sat down with one of our colleagues who is celebrating 30 years with iNova this July.
His reflections offer a candid look at how careers evolve over time, how people grow through different phases, and why some journeys are worth committing to for the long run.
You are about to celebrate 30 years with iNova. How does that milestone feel?
Thirty years at iNova feels incredibly fulfilling and something I am genuinely grateful for. When I look back, time seems to have passed very quickly because I have been growing alongside the company all this while. This milestone is not just a number to me. It represents countless challenges that shaped me, many moments of learning, the support of teammates, and precious memories collected along the way. I feel proud to have walked such a long journey with iNova, and thankful for every opportunity the company has given me over the decades.
Take us back to when you first joined in 1996. What attracted you to the company then?
Back in 1996, I joined 3M as an ethical sales representative. Even back then, the company stood out as a trustworthy and forward-looking organisation. What drew me in was its clear long-term vision, its people-first culture, and the sincerity it showed towards both employees and partners. It felt like a place where you could build something meaningful over time, not just complete tasks day to day.
Can you walk us through your career journey and what motivated your transition into general trade?
I started in ethical sales, which gave me a very strong foundation in customer communication, product knowledge and understanding market needs. Being on the frontline taught me how to listen carefully and respond with accountability and reliability.
Later, an opportunity came up within the company to move into the trade business. I saw it as a chance to broaden my perspective and build new capabilities. The company also encouraged me to explore different roles and learn new skills. That support gave me the confidence to step into general trade, where I could continue growing while contributing in new ways.
Looking back, what are some of the biggest changes you have seen in the industry?
The transformation has been remarkable. When I first started, sales orders were handwritten and sent via fax. During customer visits, we would carry printed materials and rely entirely on face-to-face explanations.
Today, everything is much faster and more efficient. Orders can be sent instantly by email, and we have real-time visibility into records. We use iPads to present product information, making discussions clearer and more engaging. The tools have changed, but the essence of building trust with customers remains the same.
What achievements are you most proud of?
I am most proud of the long-term relationships I have built with customers. Many of them have been with us for years, and our partnerships have remained stable and mutually beneficial. Some customers feel like old friends now. Every visit feels like catching up, and that human connection is something I truly value.
What is one moment in your career you will never forget?
The COVID period in Hong Kong stands out very clearly. Many people were suffering from severe sore throats, and our product Difflam became essential. Demand was extremely high, but supply was limited. I worked closely with customers to ensure fair allocation, which strengthened trust significantly.
That period also saw exceptional sales performance. After the pandemic, awareness and trust in the Difflam brand increased significantly, which continues to benefit the business today.
How have you adapted to changes over the years?
I believe adaptability starts with mindset. I keep myself physically fit so I can handle the demands of the role, but more importantly, I always take an “own it” approach to my work. When I face unfamiliar challenges, I first try to think through solutions independently. If needed, I discuss with colleagues to gain different perspectives. Continuous learning and teamwork are what keep me moving forward.
You are known as the ‘big brother’ in the team. What does that mean to you?
It is a nickname I value deeply because it reflects trust. It means colleagues feel comfortable coming to me for advice or support. I try to listen openly, share my experience honestly, and help where I can. I also want to create an environment where people feel relaxed, safe to ask questions, and supported by one another. It is a responsibility I am happy to carry.
How have relationships contributed to your success?
Relationships are at the core of everything. With customers, trust built through consistent and sincere communication leads to long-term loyalty. With colleagues, open collaboration and mutual support make it easier to overcome challenges. Success is never achieved alone. It is always a collective effort.
What does iNova’s culture mean to you?
To me, iNova’s culture is about support, growth and integrity. Over the years, it has evolved to provide more structured learning opportunities, clearer career pathways and more platforms for employees to develop their strengths. What has remained constant is the company’s commitment to its people, and that is why I have always felt valued here.
What advice do you give to new joiners?
I usually share three things. First, take ownership of your work and always aim to do your best. Second, think from the customer’s perspective because that builds stronger relationships. Third, value teamwork. Be open to learning from others and do not hesitate to seek help. Growth happens faster when we work together.
What keeps you motivated after 30 years?
I still genuinely enjoy meeting customers and sharing our products with them. That interaction brings energy to my daily work. At the same time, the company continues to introduce new products, which keeps my role dynamic. There is always something new to learn, so the work never feels repetitive.
In your view, what makes iNova a place for long-term careers?
It comes down to trust, opportunity and culture. The company cares for its employees and provides a supportive environment. There are clear development pathways and ongoing training opportunities. Most importantly, there is a strong sense of teamwork which creates a stable and positive workplace. It is a place where people can truly grow alongside the business over time.
