CEO Insights Magazine

In the bustling landscape of Philippine entrepreneurship, one name stands out as a beacon of innovation, leadership, and philanthropy - Jose Luis U. Yulo Jr. With a career spanning decades across diverse sectors, Jose's journey epitomizes resilience, vision, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Born into a family with a rich legacy of business acumen and public service, Jose embarked on his professional odyssey armed with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the prestigious University of the Philippines. His thirst for knowledge led him to pursue a Master's in Business Management at the Asian Institute of Management, where he honed his skills and laid the foundation for a storied career ahead.

Jose Luis U. Yulo Jr., or 'Nonoy' as he is known to friends, is a seasoned professional with a global perspective, having held leadership roles across diverse industries including stock exchange, international trading, banking, insurance, gas stations, mining and beverage condiments production and real estate. With a wealth of experience as President, CEO, and Board Chairman in various sectors including International Associations and Chambers of Commerce, Jose is renowned for his expertise in fostering international business cooperation. Beyond his professional pursuits, Jose finds joy in reading, travel, and civic engagement. Married to Kathleen Velayo and blessed with three children, he values family and community, embodying a holistic approach to success. Jose's multifaceted career exemplifies a relentless pursuit of excellence and a commitment to global collaboration.

Below is an excerpt of Jose Luis U. Yulo Jr.'s exclusive interaction with CEO Insights ASIA magazine.

You possess over four decades of strong professional experience spearheading businesses across various sectors. Tell us about the milestones of your professional journey.

Throughout my career spanning over four decades, I have had the privilege of navigating diverse sectors, each marked by its own set of challenges and triumphs. I believe that I've left an indelible mark on the landscape of international business, championing cooperation and innovation at every turn. My journey began in 1974, as a Co-Founder and Board Director of General Diesel Power Corporation, where I spearheaded expansion into new territories, laying the groundwork for future success. Subsequently, my role as Co-Founder of the Philippine Center for International Trade and Exhibits (PHILCITE) saw me pioneer the concept of trade fairs and exhibitions as a burgeoning industry, setting the stage for countless business opportunities.

At the helm of the Philippine International Trading Corporation (PITC), I co-authored groundbreaking policies on countertrade, facilitating lucrative partnerships with nations around the globe. My tenure as President/CEO of the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) ushered in a new era of transparency and efficiency, culminating in the codification of essential trading rules and disaster prevention protocols. As a Founder Entrepreneur of Centrex Corporation, I revolutionized the design and construction landscape, leaving an indelible mark on countless projects worldwide. Additionally, my stewardship of PETRON Corporation as an Independent Director exemplified my commitment to driving organizational excellence and fostering sustainable growth.

Beyond business, my contributions to chambers of commerce and international organizations have been instrumental in shaping policy and fostering meaningful dialogue. Whether advocating for crossborder initiatives in APEC or promoting cultural exchange as Consul-General Ad Honorem of the Republic of Slovenia, my dedication to fostering global partnerships remains unwavering. Today, as President/ CEO of the Chamber of Commerce of the Philippine Islands, I continue to lead with a steadfast commitment to our nation's economic heritage. Through initiatives like ECOMP-P5: Economic Compass Pillars 5, we strive to honor our past while charting a course for a prosperous future, ensuring that the Philippines recaptures its once glorious past in the coming years.

During my time at the Asian Institute of Management in Makati, Manila, Philippines, my academic journey was only part of the rich tapestry of experiences. The requirement to reside on campus for the duration of my MBA program instilled a profound lesson in the value of diverse perspectives. Engaging in spirited debates and discussions, I learned to separate ideas from individuals, fostering an environment where conflicting viewpoints could coexist without personal animosity. Additionally, the emphasis on thinking outside the box encouraged me to explore unconventional solutions, pushing boundaries and challenging assumptions. These invaluable experiences transcended mere academics, shaping me into a more adaptable and open-minded professional.

Define Centrex as an organization and its position in the market. 

Centrex stands as an industry pioneer and leader, renowned for its excellence in design and execution within the realm of trade fairs and exhibitions. Since our establishment in 1983, we've curated over 35,000 successful projects, solidifying our position as the premier design and events contractor in the Philippines. Our organizational ethos emphasizes active participation from all members, recognizing that collective effort is paramount to project success. Our steadfast commitment to total client satisfaction drives every aspect of our operations, ensuring that each endeavor exceeds expectations. Centrex isn't merely an organization; it's a collaborative force dedicated to pushing boundaries, setting standards, and ultimately, defining success within the dynamic landscape of the exhibition industry.

As the Chairman Owner, what are the factors you take into account when developing effective corporate growth strategies?

Crafting effective corporate growth strategies demands a multifaceted approach. Firstly, understanding our competitive landscape is paramount. We analyze our niche and discern what sets us apart from rivals, ensuring our offerings resonate uniquely with the market. Secondly, excellence within our niche is non-negotiable; we prioritize honing our strengths to outshine competitors. Equally critical is assembling a team equipped with the skills and drive to achieve key results, aligning each role with strategic objectives. Lastly, securing adequate funding is indispensable for sustained growth. Ideas alone won't propel us forward; we require robust financial support to actualize our ambitions. By considering these factors comprehensively, we pave the path for dynamic corporate expansion and enduring success.

What is your anticipation about the market, going forward?

My anticipation for the market is one of growth and dynamism. With a burgeoning global population, the demand for projects, events, and commerce is poised to escalate. International exchanges will proliferate, fostering increased business opportunities. While technological advancements will undoubtedly play a pivotal role, physical interactions remain irreplaceable. As social beings, the need for face-to-face engagement, handshakes, and personal connections will persist. However, this traditional model will harmonize with the budding landscape of internet-driven communication and visualization technologies. By embracing this synthesis, we anticipate a market that thrives on the fusion of traditional values and cuttingedge innovation, propelling us toward a future ripe with possibilities.

What is your future roadmap, going forward?

Looking ahead, our future roadmap entails two key pillars. Firstly, we aim for geographical expansion, both domestically and internationally, broadening our market presence and reach. Secondly, we prioritize diversification, seeking opportunities to enhance our product and service offerings. Through strategic diversification and market penetration, we aspire to fortify our position as a leader in our industry while unlocking new avenues for growth and innovation. By adhering to this roadmap, we are poised to navigate the evolving landscape with agility and resilience, ensuring sustained success in the dynamic marketplace.

In light of your strong professional experience within the field, what would be your advice to budding industry leaders?

Drawing from my extensive professional journey, my advice to budding industry leaders is twofold. Firstly, always exceed expectations. If a client requests a mile, strive to walk two, going above and beyond to deliver exceptional value. Secondly, prioritize passion over profit. When you're driven by passion, excellence naturally follows. By focusing on delivering outstanding results fuelled by genuine enthusiasm, you'll attract loyal customers and foster long-term success for your business. Remember, success isn't just about meeting requirements; it's about surpassing them with dedication and fervor. These principles will guide you on the path to becoming a respected and accomplished industry leader. 

Jose Luis U. Yulo Jr., Chairman Owner, Centrex

Jose Luis U. Yulo Jr., Chairman Owner of Centrex, is a seasoned leader with vast experience in diverse industries. His visionary approach has propelled Centrex to the forefront of the design and exhibition construction sector. Yulo's multifaceted expertise and dedication to excellence continue to drive Centrex's success in the global market.

Awards & Recognitions:

•Awarded the Agora Award for Marketing Excellence by the Philippine Marketing Association in 1985
• Featured as “Exhibition King” by Asiaweek Magazine for accomplishments in Trade Fairs and Exhibitions
• Awarded the “Outstanding Professional Award” for exemplary achievements in business and dedication to the advancement of proper management practices by the Letran Alumni Association in 1985
• Awarded Certificate of Grandes Figuras for “Outstanding accomplishments and high standards set by the Awardee – a testament to the exemplary character of a true-blooded Letranite” by Colegio de San Juan de Letran 2017
•Speaker and Guest of Honor in over 100 Conferences and Events worldwide; received numerous Citations, Awards, and Plaques of Recognition from local and international civic and governmental organizations
•Recipient of Gold Medals for First Honor, and Conduct in High School
• Entrance Scholar in University of the Philippines
•Topnotcher in the Civil Service Exams