CEO Insights Magazine

The education landscape in the Philippines has seen remarkable evolution, with institutions like the Asian Institute of Management (AIM) in Makati, Metro Manila playing a significant role in shaping business leaders across Asia. AIM, known for its rigorous curriculum and global orientation, has long been a beacon for those seeking advanced management education. Its programs attract aspiring professionals and seasoned executives alike, preparing them to lead in dynamic and challenging environments.

AIM’s alumni network is a testament to the institute’s impact, with graduates making notable contributions in corporate leadership, entrepreneurship, and public service throughout Asia and beyond. Among its distinguished alumni is Clive Lim, Managing Director of Leap International Pte Ltd and founder and shareholder of Telechoice International Ltd.

Following his time at AIM, Clive Lim embarked on a corporate journey spanning nearly a decade with global companies Xerox and Motorola. These formative years offered deep insights into both the triumphs and tribulations of large organizations. At Xerox, he witnessed the volatility of the office equipment industry as the company grappled with restructuring efforts to stay relevant, marked by workforce reductions and a pervasive sense of uncertainty. In contrast, his tenure at Motorola coincided with the company's dominance in the cellular market, offering lessons in managing success without succumbing to complacency. However, the eventual decline of Motorola’s competitiveness also reinforced the importance of agility and innovation.

At age 35, Clive ventured into entrepreneurship, drawing on his corporate experiences to establish Telechoice in 1998, initially focusing on cellular product distribution before expanding into cellular engineering. The company went public in 2004, marking a significant milestone. In 2006, he stepped away from operational leadership to further his education and dedicate himself to Leap International, an investment firm that has since evolved into a Singapore-based Single-Family Office (SFO). Today, Clive Lim is recognized for his strategic foresight and leadership in both the telecommunications and investment sectors. Let’s dive in to know more.

What are the valuable lessons you acquired from the Asian Institute of Management, Makati, Philippines?

At AIM, I learned to absorb and process large volumes of information, then distill it into meaningful insights to understand problems and identify key issues. Just as important was learning to work with people from diverse backgrounds, many of whom were ambitious and highly competitive. It felt very much like a corporate setting. The experience sharpened my ability to think critically, collaborate under pressure, and navigate complexity, skills that proved invaluable in my later corporate and entrepreneurial journey.

What are the skills you learned in and out of the classroom that are beneficial in your current role?

In and out of the classroom, I developed strong skills in marketing, finance, and strategy, each of which has been crucial in my business journey. These areas helped me understand how to position a company, manage resources wisely, and think long-term. Equally important was learning how to communicate clearly and effectively, a skill that’s vital when building teams, pitching ideas, or negotiating deals. AIM provided a solid foundation not just in theory, but also in real-world application, which continues to support me in my current role.

How would you describe the accessibility of faculty from your time at the institute?

The faculty at AIM was approachable and supportive. I’m naturally quite reserved and tend to keep to myself, but even so, I never felt isolated. One faculty member, in particular, played a crucial role during a difficult time when I was facing financial challenges (considering leaving during the first year). Their support and understanding were instrumental in helping me complete the program. That kind of accessibility and personal attention made a lasting impression on me and reflected the genuine commitment of the faculty to their students’ success, both academically and personally.

What is one memory that stands out to you the most from the institute?

What stands out most are the countless long nights spent reading and writing. It was intense and exhausting at times, but it pushed me to my limits and taught me discipline and endurance. That period really helped me build a strong work ethic, something I’ve carried with me ever since. The ability to stay focused, manage time, and keep going despite the pressure has been invaluable in my professional life. Those late nights weren’t easy, but they shaped how I approach challenges to this day.

Tell us about your leadership approach. What are the guidelines or methodologies you follow as a leader?

As a leader, I believe in setting the example, self-discipline and personal conduct are essential. I structure my day in three parts to align with how I work best. Mornings are for thinking and reading, afternoons are for meetings, and evenings are for tying up loose ends if needed. I view leadership through the lens of servant leadership, the wellbeing of the business and the team always comes first. I want every individual to grow as the business grows. For me, effective leadership is built on three key pillars, namely character, competence, and community.

Where do you aspire to be in your professional journey, going forward? What is your success mantra?

Looking ahead, my goal is to continue helping people grow, not just professionally, but personally, as the business grows alongside them. I believe true success is shared and meaningful when it contributes to the development of others. It’s also important for me to give back to the communities and markets that have played a role in my success. In 2009, I established the Leap Foundation, a charitable organization that supports causes in Singapore and across the region. For me, success is about impact, responsibility, and enabling others to thrive.

Clive Lim, Managing Director, Telechoice

Clive Lim is the Managing Director of Leap International Pte Ltd and founder of Telechoice International Ltd, publicly listed since 2004. A seasoned entrepreneur and investor, he holds a Ph.D. on money and Christianity and is committed to philanthropy through the Leap Foundation, supporting causes in Singapore and the region.

Awards & Recognition:

Author of several books

Founded and built multiple successful businesses

Telechoice International Ltd has been publicly listed in Singapore since 2004

Recently completed a Ph.D. focused on the intersection of money and Christianity