CEO Insights Magazine

In Hong Kong, Chief Commercial Officers (CCOs) play a pivotal role in driving revenue growth and market expansion across diverse industries. As key strategists, they navigate complex market dynamics, forge strategic partnerships, and innovate sales approaches to capitalize on emerging opportunities. Within this landscape, Kyo Siu emerges as a dynamic leader renowned for his astute commercial acumen and transformative vision. 

With a career spanning prestigious media organizations such as Tatler and Home Journal, Kyo has honed his expertise in luxury lifestyle markets. His tenure as Regional Business Development Director at Tatler Asia and subsequent roles underscore his proficiency in digital advertising sales and strategic market positioning. Kyo's leadership extends beyond revenue generation, he is committed to reshaping Hong Kong's interior design landscape, infusing it with creativity and sophistication.

Engaging in an idiosyncratic interaction with CEO Insights Asia magazine, Kyo shares the imperious details of his journey as one of the influencing leaders in Hong Kong. Let’s delve into it.

How have your past experiences contributed to your current role, particularly in innovating strategies to meet sales targets?

My background in the luxury industry has been instrumental in shaping my approach as a Commercial Director. Leveraging my extensive network and experience in luxury events, I've introduced innovative strategies to elevate our company's presence in the interior design market. 

Drawing from my connections and insights from attending renowned shows and exhibitions worldwide, I've orchestrated impactful events that bridge the gap between luxury standards and interior design. These initiatives not only enhance our brand's image but also foster fruitful collaborations with designers and brands, ultimately driving sales targets. By infusing elements of exclusivity and sophistication into our approach, I've successfully positioned our company as a trailblazer in the industry, generating mutual benefits for all stakeholders involved.

In leading my team, I emphasize the importance of adopting a client-centric approach. We start by placing ourselves in the clients' shoes, understanding their needs and expectations thoroughly. This enables us to effectively manage their expectations and anticipate potential scenarios, both positive and negative. Throughout the process, we continuously assess customer satisfaction by gathering feedback through surveys, reviews, and direct communication channels. Any issues that arise are promptly addressed, employing a solutions-oriented mindset. We employ various methods to resolve issues, including personalized communication, swift action, and transparent problem-solving processes.

How do you measure your team's success, and what steps do you take to motivate them towards achieving their goals?

I measure my team's success not solely by sales figures, but by their ability to think creatively and contribute innovative ideas to the company. While market conditions and product factors play a role in sales outcomes, I value initiative and out-of-the-box thinking. 

I motivate my team by fostering a sense of ownership and empowerment, encouraging them to treat the company as their own. Recognition of their efforts, continuous feedback, and opportunities for professional development further inspire them to strive for excellence. 

Could you elaborate on your leadership style and the principles you adhere to as a leader?

I prioritize collaboration and inclusivity within my team. I believe in actively involving team members in decision-making processes, valuing their opinions and contributions. By fostering an environment where everyone feels heard and valued, I cultivate a sense of ownership and commitment to our shared goals. I refrain from micromanagement, instead providing guidance and support while granting autonomy for creativity and problem-solving. Transparency, open communication, and mutual respect are the cornerstones of my leadership style. By treating my team as equals and empowering them to take initiative, I strive to create a cohesive and motivated team dedicated to achieving success together.

What impacts do you envision making in your professional journey moving forward?

I aspire to ascend to the role of CEO, leveraging my experience in commercial leadership and broadening my scope to encompass various aspects of business operations. With a solid foundation in managing P&L and overseeing departments beyond commercial, such as events, marketing, and editorial, I aim to drive holistic growth and innovation within the organization.

Given your industry expertise, what advice would you offer to emerging leaders?

My advice to emerging leaders is to prioritize understanding and empathizing with your clients. Continuously seek to deepen your knowledge of their needs, preferences, and pain points. Embrace every opportunity to learn and adapt, whether from daily interactions or challenging situations. Recognize that leadership is an ongoing journey of growth and selfdiscovery. Stay open-minded, be receptive to feedback, and cultivate resilience in the face of obstacles. By putting your clients at the forefront and committing to constant improvement, you'll pave the way for success in your role as a commercial leader. 

Kyo Siu, Commercial Director, Home Journal

Kyo Siu is a seasoned professional with over 15 years of experience in media sales and marketing, particularly within the luxury lifestyle industry. Beginning at Tatler magazine, he swiftly climbed the ranks, spearheading projects such as the relaunch of the Chinese editions. His career trajectory led him to Shanghai, where he managed sales and marketing operations before returning to Hong Kong as the Commercial Director for Home Journal.

• Favorite Hobbies: Cooking, Travelling
• Favorite Cuisine: Chinese, Italian
• Favorite Book: Biographical Inspirations
• Favorite Travel Destination: Japan. Italy