The Big Cheese with Agility Fairs & Events CEO Priscilla Leong

The Big Cheese with Agility Fairs & Events CEO Priscilla Leong

This week, we were joined by Agility Fairs & Events’ global CEO, Priscilla Leong. Unfortunately, we had to sit on the floor, as all of The Nibbler’s office chairs were broken.

The great thing about my job is…

Being able to meet and work with people who are genuinely passionate about what they do in the MICE industry.

The challenge for the industry is…

The long, sometimes antisocial hours that we have to put in and managing the sudden surprises that come up, while ensuring that everything is in order for the start of any event.

My greatest achievement is…

Project managing the biggest textile machinery show in the world in 2011, given that my background was in finance and not in logistics. I worked with the team on-site in Barcelona for almost a month. The show went well, but it was hard work – a baptism of fire of sorts!  Nevertheless, it helped affirm my ability to run this business and to prove to myself and others that Asian women can make great business leaders.

The biggest thing in MICE this year will be…

Looking at how the introduction of 5G could impact the MICE industry in terms of enhancing or providing new service offerings from the players in the industry to provide an even better customer experience.

I try to relax by…

Keeping myself away from my mobile phone, as I am a bit of a workaholic and try to attend to things almost immediately, no matter what time of day. I have a very active mind and multi-task a lot; therefore, I find it quite difficult to wind down. The only time that I feel really relaxed is when I am attending church service.

My favourite venue/destination is…

I have travelled to many places as part of my work and do not have any place that is really a favourite, as you do not see much on a work trip. However, my recent trip to Israel was particularly memorable and fascinating, as it brought to life for me what I read in the bible.

I am scared to death of…

Driving in heavy rain when roads are flooded, as I encountered a bad accident driving from Beijing to Tianjin many years back. It was a blessing that I was unhurt though the car was badly damaged.

I can’t live without…

Sufficient sleep, as I will not function well the next day. I sleep early and rise early.

For anyone starting out in the industry, one piece of advice I’d give would be…

Be prepared for the long days and odd hours you have to work. And be willing to learn and have the staying power, as you will need to acquire many skill sets in order to be successful.

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