This month we talk to a well-travelled, professionally-qualified business person. Her view of Phuket is well worth hearing.
Do you come from Phuket?
No, I’m from Bangkok.
Why did you decide to set up your business in Phuket?
Because of the potential for our business, but we were also attracted by the lifestyle.
Could you tell us about your educational background?
I’ve got a bachelor’s degree from the Faculty of Law, Chulalongkorn University, and a master’s degree in law from the U.S.A.
What did you do before you started your present company?
After graduation, I worked as a law consultant for a finance company for many years. This business, AheadAll, has been going for eight years.
How did you start your business?
When I returned to Thailand from abroad, I was struck by how many houses and businesses had unsightly security bars on the windows. I recalled that in the States they had none of this, depending rather on automatic alarm systems. I realised that there was a need for security equipment in Thailand that was not being met by the market and so we set out to address it. We target everything from small housing projects to large condominiums and hotels.
Why did you call the company ‘AheadAll’?
This company is all about using the latest technology and thinking to enhance people’s quality of life. The name, I think, conveys this concept. Our approach can be summarised as providing security, improving lifestyle, saving resources and serving the community.
What is your responsibility for your business?
I’m the owner and managing director.
Who is your idol?
My idol is my husband, who is the head of Thailand’s leading law firm. He holds to the highest principles and perceives his responsibility as serving and helping others.
How would you describe your approach to business and managing others?
First, you can’t expect others to be motivated if you don’t set a good example – a positive role model, if you like. At the same time, it’s important to keep an open mind and be flexible in your thinking. The dynamics of the market are constantly changing and if you don’t adapt, you fail. For example, one of the problems of doing business here is that there is a high and a low season. What works for one, doesn’t necessarily work for the other.
How do you solve problems and challenges in life and business?
Well, business, and life as well I suppose, is all about solving problems. I always try to encourage my staff to think positively, “Every problem has a solution, if you’ll only search it out.” You must be happy in the work you’re doing. After all, you spend more of your waking time at work than at home. Finally, be cooperative and courteous to those around you. Always volunteer to help others whenever you can.
Could you tell us about your private life and your lifestyle?
I’m 42 years old and have four children. The eldest is 16, and is studying in Canada. The other three attend an international school in Bangkok.
Personally, I like to enjoy the best for everything. I love music and work. I couldn’t live without working. I work six days a week, so evenings and Sundays are devoted to my children. I do enjoy eating out in fine restaurants, and I also enjoy going to concerts. I usually travel abroad every year. On occasion, I’ll organise fund raising events for schools both in Bangkok and elsewhere.
Where do you stay in Phuket?
We have an office on the By-Pass road, but I love to stay in hotels to see how things develop.
What is your hobby?
As I’ve said, I’m passionate about music so I collect music boxes from all the places I have visited. I also practise meditation.
What are your plans for the future?
I suppose in due course I may retire from my active roles when I’m confident that my personnel are ready and able to act in an entrepreneurial fashion. They deserve the chance.
How is Phuket in your view? What do you like and dislike about the island?
Phuket has beautiful beaches and mountains, great restaurants and a wonderful relaxed lifestyle. There was a time when I really enjoyed chilling out, in and around Patong. These days, however, I just don’t get the time. The biggest problem on the island is the lack of a decent public transportation service. If you don’t have a car or a motorcycle you can’t go anywhere. For the sake of the general population this problem really has to be addressed.
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