CEO Insights Magazine

In the complex ecosystem of business, the role of a CEO transcends traditional management duties. Jimmy Tan, the Executive Director and Group CEO of Fiamma Holdings Berhad is an individual who epitomizes this multifaceted role. At 56, Jimmy Tan assumed the pivotal position of Group CEO at Fiamma Group on December 1, 2022. His arrival marked a significant milestone, as he took on the mantle of steering the strategic growth trajectory of the esteemed Fiamma Group.

With an impressive tenure of more than three decades in the consumer electronics industry, Jimmy Tan has honed his expertise, boasting over 30 years of invaluable experience in Sales and Marketing. Notably, 17 of those years were spent operating at senior management levels, a testament to his astute leadership capabilities. Before his distinguished tenure at Fiamma Group, Jimmy Tan contributed immensely to the success of Samsung Malaysia Electronics (SME) for over 16 years. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in propelling business growth, enhancing brand equity, expanding market share, and orchestrating transformative changes in distribution channels. Jimmy Tan’s profound understanding of consumer behavior and the intricate workings of the business landscape, coupled with his extensive experience in various capacities within the consumer product industry, positions him as a versatile and forward-thinking leader.

Graduating from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia with a Bachelor's Degree in Development Science (Hons), majoring in Economics and Management in 1992, Jimmy Tan's academic background complements his rich professional expertise, underscoring his well rounded approach to steering Fiamma Holdings Berhad toward unprecedented success.

Today, Jimmy Tan stands as a beacon of leadership, leveraging his vast industry knowledge, strategic acumen, and visionary outlook to drive Fiamma Group's evolution and ascendancy in the dynamic realm of business. Let’s hear from him.

Can you provide us insights into the distinctive offerings of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia and how your campus experiences transcended academics?

In 1989, I was elected as the Student Representative (JAKSA), marking my initial foray into leadership roles. Subsequently, I led the Organizing Committee for a joint program between the student representatives of Fakulti Sains Pembangunan and MPKK, showcasing my organizational skills in a collaborative effort. During my 2-year experience (3rd and 4th year) at UKM Sabah Branch Campus, I immersed myself in a new culture, experiencing diverse environments and exploring the beautiful eco-natural landscape of Sabah.

In the role of Sports and Culture Committee Member of Kamsis Ibrahim Yaakub, UKM Session 1989/90, I organized, coordinated, and promoted sports and cultural events. As the Assistant Sports and Recreation Exco UKM Sabah Campus Student Representative Council Session 1990/91, I played a crucial role in planning and managing sports and recreational activities to enhance student engagement. Additionally, as part of the Titian Manara Project Educational Visit to the University of Brunei Darussalam, I addressed challenges, represented UKMS, and ensured a positive image of the university.

Being a football enthusiast, my roles as a UKM football player, and later as the Captain of the UKMS Football Team (Sesi 1988/89 – 1989/90 and Sesi 1991/92, respectively) allowed me to contribute to team cohesion, strategy and discipline, show casing my dedication to both leadership and sportsmanship throughout my journey.

How would you define Fiamma Holdings Berhad as an organization and its position in the market? What is the unique proposition that your organization offers to clients?

As a leading brand owner and a trusted name in Malaysia, we have a rich history spanning over 40 years. Its extensive product range includes home appliances for the kitchen, living room, bedroom and bathroom, sanitary ware, medical devices, and much more, catering to a wide range of consumer needs. We own well-established in-house brands, such as Elba, Faber, Rubine, Tuscani, Haustern, and EBAC.

Our advanced warehouse and logistics facility with a size of 160,000 square feet is able to serve its robust distribution network of over 2,000 touch points across Malaysia. We also take pride in our commitment to providing the best service and customer satisfaction through our over 100 authorized service centers nationwide

We are also active in property development and property investment which demonstrates our reach beyond the white goods industry and underscores our versatility and potential.

Describe your leadership philosophy and approach. What principles or methodologies guide your leadership style?

My leadership ethos revolves around embracing transparency, trust, humility, and fostering teamwork. I firmly acknowledge that achieving success hinges on team members comprehending the company's vision and collaboratively working towards it. I prioritize staff empowerment, entrusting each team member to excel in their roles. This, combined with an open and transparent managerial approach, forms the cornerstone of my leadership methodology.

What strategies do you employ to stay abreast of current industry trends and guide your organization toward future success? What drives your daily routine?

I remain informed about new trends and innovations, and deepen my understanding of our consumers by actively engaging with industry leaders, participating in trade shows, and attending pertinent courses. This approach allows me to stay attuned to the evolving landscape.

Additionally, I take on the responsibility of supporting our team, ensuring their motivation to excel, and fostering a culture that embraces change. I eagerly anticipate assisting our staff in their professional growth and development, aiming to create an environment conducive to their success.

What future goals are you aiming for?

Having accumulated over 16 years at Samsung Malaysia and driving significant accomplishments in revenue growth, market share expansion, and attaining a prominent brand position, I aspire to leverage my expertise to revolutionize Fiamma Group. My vision involves transforming it into a diversified group and pioneering innovative domestic Consumer Electronics Appliances brands, ones that every Malaysian consumer will proudly own. For more than 40 years, our brands have been integral to Malaysian households, embodying steadfastness, reliability, and unwavering performance. Undoubtedly, names like Elba, Rubine, and Faber have etched themselves into the memories of countless Malaysians.

As we stride into the future, we are harnessing our legacy and infusing fresh vigor into all our endeavors concerning brand establishment and product advancement. Our goal is to position our brands as trusted providers of home solutions, inspiring and enriching the lives of contemporary, empowered women who embrace modernity and intelligence.

Advice for Emerging Leaders

We've witnessed rapid evolution within our industry, spanning product innovation, shifts in consumer purchasing behavior, digitalization, and more. Consequently, leaders must wholeheartedly embrace change while prioritizing people's development. Understanding our consumers, continuously acquiring new knowledge, and embracing innovative approaches in our business strategies are crucial facets of navigating this dynamic landscape.

Jimmy Tan Chee Wee, ED/Group CEO, Fiamma Holdings Berhad

With over 30 years of distinguished service in the consumer electronics sector, Jimmy Tan is renowned for his refined skills, showcasing extensive expertise in Sales and Marketing.