CEO Insights Magazine

Being the top leader in the automotive industry is very challenging. There are a handful of leaders that bear the weight of the job better than others. Every year, a few stand apart from the herd for the consequential impact they have on the business. One among these influential leaders is Yahn-Shen Tsai, General Manager of Fullchamp Technologies. With an MBA from Pennsylvania State University and Bachelor of International Business from National Taiwan University, Yahn-Shen Tsai is known as one of the sharpest thinkers in shaping Fullchamp Technologies. His deep expertise working in various positions at different companies makes him an admired and sought-after leader in the automotive industry.

In this interview, Yahn-Shen Tsai walks us through his career journey and trends in the automotive industry.

Could you walk us through your professional journey?

My professional career has been a dynamic journey across various industries, each offering unique challenges and learning experiences. After completing my MBA at Pennsylvania State University and a Bachelor's in International Business from National Taiwan University, I began my career as a Marketing Manager at Bristol Myers Squibb in Taiwan, where I worked in the Meiji Johnson Business Division. That was my introduction to handling large portfolios and managing diverse teams.

From there, I transitioned into the technology sector, taking on the role of Marketing Manager for Taiwan’s Pager Products Division at Motorola, followed by a role as Marketing Manager for Asia Pacific in the Network Division. These roles gave me a deeper understanding of how technology products are marketed across different regions, which was instrumental in shaping my approach to global marketing strategies.

After Motorola, I moved into a more executive-level role at Baring Asia Telecommunications and Media Fund as Executive Vice President. This was a pivotal experience that exposed me to strategic investments and business growth at a higher level. Following that, I served as General Manager at Top Telecommunications Consulting Company, which honed my leadership abilities further and allowed me to navigate the complexities of the telecommunications industry.

I also took on the role of Sales Director at Sequel Technology, which broadened my expertise in sales leadership. Before current post, I was the General Manager of Enterex International, the global top car radiator producer. Today, as the General Manager of Fullchamp Technologies, I’m using all the skills I’ve accumulated over the years to drive growth and innovation in the automotive industry. My journey has been about continuous learning and adapting, and I’m excited about the future of the automotive industry, especially with the current technological advancements we’re seeing.

Can you please shed light on your company and its approach in the automotive sector?

Our HQs is based in Switzerland, with most of our operations located in Europe. To maintain synergy, we collaborate closely with our parent company via conference calls, workshops and meetings, allowing us to exchange knowledge and ideas. At the group level, the headquarters has a market intelligence function, and we contribute insights about the Asian market while they share information on the European market. This exchange helps us stay informed about trends in both regions. Additionally, we maintain strong relationships with vendors and industry contacts, and we actively participate in associations like the Forging Association and the Rim Association to expand our network and exchange knowledge.

For us, the key is aligning our strategies with the European group’s global vision, but also adapting those strategies to fit local practices. This balance keeps us updated and competitive.

Can you explain a bit about your leadership approach?

As a leader, my approach is centered around empowerment, transparency, and fostering trust within the team. I believe in giving my team the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to grow and excel in their roles. One of the key aspects of my leadership style is open communication. I make sure everyone understands not just their individual goals but also how they contribute to the overall strategy of the company. By creating an environment where people feel valued and involved in decision-making, I encourage innovation and ownership.

When I first joined the company, it was already 10 years old, transitioning from a local company to a multinational one after being acquired by Ronal, the top European wheel group. One of the biggest challenges was earning the trust of the employees, especially during this period of change. To address this, I made a bold decision. I reduced employee salaries by 10 percent, but promised that the difference would be added to their bonuses, both quarterly and yearly. I guaranteed that if after one year their total earnings were less than 90 percent of the previous year, I would personally pay the difference. This bold move was designed to show them that I was committed to their growth along with the company's. Over the years, this approach helped me build trust with the team, and now, more than a decade later, we’ve seen tremendous growth and stability.

Please shed some light on your achievements and future road map?

I’ve been interviewed and invited to speak at various platforms, including well-known outlets like Business Today, SET News Channel, Global Views Monthly, and Career magazine. These engagements have allowed me to share insights on management strategies, leadership, and aligning local industries with global standards.

One of my key achievements has been leading Fullchamp Technologies through significant transformation, particularly in our expansion into international markets. Under my leadership, we successfully adapted European global strategies to local practices, strengthening our presence in Asia and aligning our operations with global standards. This has not only increased our market competitiveness but also enhanced the skills and capabilities of our workforce.

As for the future, my focus will be on further strengthening our global footprint and leveraging technology to drive innovation in the automotive industry.

Yahn-Shen Tsai, General Manager, Fullchamp technologies

With an MBA from Pennsylvania State University and a Bachelor's in International Business from National Taiwan University, Yahn-Shen brings extensive expertise and leadership experience. His impressive track record and deep industry knowledge make him a highly respected figure in the field.