CEO Insights Magazine

The Marketing and Consulting Services industry plays a crucial role in shaping business strategies, driving growth, and fostering innovation across all sectors. This industry helps organizations navigate market trends, identify opportunities, and optimize their operations, making it a key driver of economic development and business success. Leadership roles in this industry are highly significant because they guide organizations through ever-evolving market landscapes. Strong leaders in marketing and consulting have the vision to anticipate changes, the skills to adapt strategies, and the ability to inspire teams to execute successfully.

Weigella Mapagu-David, President & CEO at JW-Prime Management Consultancy, is an industry veteran known for her valuable insights and consistent ability to drive success. Founded in March 2019, JW-Prime Management Consultancy is a Filipino-owned sole proprietorship and a start-up business offering management consultancy services to privately-owned small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Weigella is also an Advisory Board Member at Fincasa Ventures based in Dubai, UAE and a Executive Partner at Strategic Swiss Partners based in Zurich, Switzerland.

In an exclusive interview, Weigella shared her journey to success and offered valuable advice to aspiring leaders.

Please briefly describe your professional background and experience. What drives and motivates you in your daily business activities?

I began my career in real estate in 1996 while still a student, then transitioned to the BPO industry in 2001, starting with eTelecare, the Philippines' first call centre. In 2004, I joined Accenture, where I focused on transition and operations management for eight years, eventually advancing to Operations Manager. My journey continued through roles in transition and operations at companies like Tech Mahindra, HSBC, Coca-Cola, and Checker DB Schenker Logistics. After completing my MBA from the Ateneo de Manila University in 2017, I founded JW Prime Management Consultancy with family support. This venture began as a bootstrap business with a vision to become the first Filipino international management consultancy. My family and friends are my daily motivation, driving me to help others succeed through our company.

Can you describe your leadership approach? What principles or methods guide you in your role as a leader?

My leadership style is participative. I prioritise listening over speaking. I believe it’s essential to listen closely to customers, employees, and stakeholders, as the success of any project or transaction depends on the collective input, not just my own decisions. As a leader, my role is to guide and support people rather than dictate what they should do. My approach is cooperative, involving everyone’s ideas to achieve stronger outcomes. By bringing together diverse perspectives, we can create solutions that are more effective and well-rounded.

How do you stay current with industry trends to guide your organization toward future success?

I keep up with industry trends primarily by attending events and actively networking. I engage with industry associations and connect with others directly rather than relying solely on news or social media updates. By actively reaching out, attending events, and seeking insights from experts in various fields, I stay informed and gain valuable perspectives that help guide my organization forward.

Throughout your professional journey, which milestones have brought you the greatest satisfaction, both personally and professionally?

A key milestone in my journey was founding JW Prime Management Consultancy just a year before the pandemic hit. The timing was tough, as client demand was low and companies were downsizing, making it a challenging period to launch a business. However, with resilience and support from those around me, we navigated these difficulties, capitalized on remote opportunities, and shifted much of our consultancy online. Another major achievement came in 2023, when our company exhibited at the Singapore Business Show, where I also delivered a keynote on strategic partnerships, emphasizing collaboration over competition during challenging times. This message resonated with many in the audience. In 2024, we returned to the Singapore Business Show at Marina Bay Sands, exhibiting again and applying for a Singapore entity for JW Prime. If all goes well, we aim to open our first international branch next year.

What future goals or direction are you aiming toward?

As a leader driving the business forward, our vision for the next three years is centred on expanding our company by targeting large conglomerates and global clients. Securing our first international client is a significant milestone and a major achievement for a small company like ours, reflecting the strength of our services and our growing reputation. Looking ahead, our ultimate goal is to expand on a global scale, with Singapore as our first step to serve the APAC region. Over the next two years, we also plan to explore opportunities in Europe and North America to broaden our reach. Beyond Singapore and the Philippines, we are actively investigating potential markets in Indonesia, Malaysia, the US, and the UK. This international expansion will allow us to tap into diverse business environments and create new growth opportunities, ultimately positioning us as a key player in the global consultancy space.

Based on your extensive experience in the industry, what advice would you offer to aspiring future leaders?

My key advice would be that life can sometimes feel uncertain, but it's important to take a moment to calm yourself, reflect, and even give yourself a pat on the back. You can’t always rely on others, so developing independence is crucial. From my struggles, I’ve learned that having grit and determination is essential. While intelligence and skills can be developed and learned over time, it’s grit and courage that help you navigate and overcome the toughest challenges. With these qualities, you can endure and thrive, no matter what comes your way.

Weigella Mapagu-David, President & CEO, JW-Prime Management Consultancy

Weigella Mapagu-David has over 18 years of entrepreneurial and corporate experience in the International Marketing and Consulting Services industry. She has developed a strong multicultural sensitivity and built an extensive global network of marketing specialists and business partners, particularly in the IT and Financial Advisory Services sector.