Enhancing women's roles

At its general shareholders meeting in April, Banpu will nominate a female director, for the first time in the company’s three-decade history.
Kaisri Nuengsigkapian, the first female chief executive of KPMG Thailand, said the empowerment of women could be achieved through new initiatives. She recently formed the Top Women Executive Club as a forum where leading corporate women can come together to share their experiences and encourage one another.
“It’s supportive, motivating and truly empowering. This group has grown to over 70 members, from all different backgrounds, and they all inspire me to be my best self, both as a business leader and as a woman,” she said in an e-magazine serving as a celebration of people across the consulting firm’s global network and alumni who are making a difference.
Kaisri indeed has a lot to share, given that she is one of the few women who could build up professional success and achieve personal satisfaction in her life.
She noted that to be successful in business, no one can depend on luck but people have to be confident in their own abilities.
“Starting a career 32 years ago wasn’t easy as a woman, especially in Asia. I had to be bold, speak up and make sure my ideas were heard. But if I’m passionate about something, I put my whole heart into it. And by trusting my own intuition and surrounding myself with intelligent, driven people, I have built a career I am truly proud of,” she said.
She thanked KPMG for encouraging her to push for growth and pursue what she thinks is right for the business.
Professional success lies in recognising areas of potential and finding people whose talents can make it happen, she said.
“Being a good leader isn’t about doing everything yourself,” she said.
“Thailand has always been seen as an attractive investment destination in Asean. When Japanese companies began to realise the potential of Thailand, I recognised an opportunity for us to get involved.
“Japanese investors needed someone in Thailand with whom they could connect with and trust, so I brought in a partner from Japan to help deliver value and distinguish us from our competitors.
“And it worked. Approximately one-third of our current business now comes from Japanese clients.”
Success also lies in listening more. “I might be the CEO, but that doesn’t mean I have all of the answers, all the time,” she noted. The online 360 Degree Feedback programme was launched, inviting all people, from every level of KPMG in Thailand, to give honest and anonymous feedback directly to her.
“Whether someone needs to raise a concern or wants to praise a colleague, I want to know what’s happening in the business – so we can figure out how to make it even better. That type of collaboration – and the opportunity to connect with ambitious people who have diverse opinions – is something I try to incorporate in all areas of my life.”