CEO Insights Magazine

Asuccessful leader in business is often defined by their ability to drive transformation, inspire their team, and deliver results. Effective leaders must blend vision with practical skills, from developing innovative products and services to ensuring operational excellence. They lead by example, foster a collaborative environment, and make strategic decisions that guide their company towards growth and sustainability.

Laras Setyo Wibowo, the President Director (CEO) of PGNCOM, exemplifies these qualities with a distinguished career spanning over two decades. His journey includes transformative work across various domains, from business development and product innovation to establishing companies from scratch. A particularly notable chapter in his career was from 2010 to 2012 when he led the creation of a Wimax service company. This endeavor involved everything from product development and team formation to field testing and sales activities. Though Wimax technology was eventually superseded by 4G LTE, the experience gained during those years was invaluable, shaping him into the accomplished professional he is today. Let’s dive into this one on one interaction with Laras Setyo Wibowo.

How would you describe the impact of your experience at Gadjah Mada University Indonesia on your professional development?

The experience at Gadjah Mada University (UGM) in Yogyakarta significantly influenced my professional development. The university’s vibrant, egalitarian Javanese culture, coupled with its diverse array of faculties and student body from various Indonesian regions, provided a rich learning environment. This exposure helped me cultivate a sociable demeanor and fostered a collaborative leadership style. The inclusive atmosphere at UGM taught me the value of involving the team in decision-making processes, shaping my approach to work and leadership. The skills and perspectives gained from this diverse and interactive setting have been instrumental in my growth, promoting teamwork and openness in my professional journey.

How are you applying your previous experiences to drive the strategic growth of PGNCOM?

Experience across various industrial sectors, particularly telecommunications and IT, is crucial in steering PGNCOM towards defining its strategic direction and fostering business growth. This background informs several key areas: prioritizing product and service development, identifying and targeting key market segments, establishing essential core competencies, selecting strategic partners based on specific criteria, exploring financing models and funding options, and addressing potential risks. Leveraging this extensive industry experience enables PGNCOM to make informed decisions, align its strategic objectives with market needs, and enhance its competitive edge. By integrating these insights into its operations, the company can effectively navigate challenges and capitalize on opportunities for sustained success.

How do you inspire your team to excel in their roles under your leadership?

To develop and nurture team potential, we focus on several key practices. We cultivate a positive working environment that fosters innovation and creativity by ensuring the atmosphere is conducive to idea generation. Open communication and active discussion across all teams are encouraged to promote transparency and collaboration. We also emphasize the importance of leading by example and providing coaching to guide team members in their growth. Additionally, we engage in joint analysis and brainstorming sessions to gain a comprehensive understanding of challenges and to explore effective solutions from multiple perspectives. This multifaceted approach helps in harnessing the collective strengths of the team, driving both individual and group development.

What are your expectations for the market in the future?

Anticipating market disruptions is crucial for maintaining a competitive edge. Key initiatives to address these disruptions include focusing on the development and expansion of AI technology, which presents numerous promising use cases in the Oil & Gas industry. Given the dynamic nature of the market, it is essential to continuously map and profile market trends to ensure strategic alignment and responsiveness. Additionally, ongoing product innovation is vital to adapt to evolving market conditions, while team development is crucial for retaining key competencies within the company. Emphasizing execution at every stage ensures that strategies are effectively implemented and goals are achieved. By addressing these areas, we can navigate market changes and drive sustained growth.

Given your extensive professional experience, what advice would you offer to emerging leaders in the industry?

To thrive in any professional environment, it's essential to gather as much experience as possible, embracing both successes and failures. Don’t fear failure; instead, take calculated risks to advance your goals. Make decisions promptly rather than leaving issues unresolved, and maintain professionalism in all circumstances. Learn to say no when necessary to stay focused on your priorities. Align your ambitions with the company's scale, recognizing that resources are limited and need to be managed wisely. Building a broad network of friends can be invaluable, as relationships often open doors to new opportunities. By integrating these practices, you can effectively navigate your career and foster meaningful business connections.

Laras Setyo Wibowo, President Director (CEO), PGNCOM

Laras Setyo Wibowo is the President Director (CEO) of PGNCOM, with over 20 years of experience in telecommunications and IT. He has successfully led various business initiatives, including building a Wimax service company from the ground up. His expertise spans strategic direction, product development, and team management. Laras is known for his ability to adapt to technological changes and drive innovation, making significant contributions to the growth and success of PGNCOM.