CEO Insights Magazine

Leaders in Construction and Infrastructure Companies in the Philippines play a pivotal role in steering the industry's growth and development.  As the nation witnesses a surge in construction activities, these leaders are tasked with navigating the evolving landscape, balancing innovative solutions and traditional practices. Among these influential figures is Engr. Joefil Jocson, a distinguished civil engineer with an extensive track record spanning nearly three decades.

Renowned for his visionary leadership, Joefil stands out for seamlessly integrating academic expertise into his role as the driving force behind Jocson Construction and Management Corporation. His commitment to excellence and strategic foresight positions him as a trailblazer, contributing significantly to the construction sector's advancement in the Philippines.

Engaging in an idiosyncrasy interaction with CEO Insights Asia magazine, Joefil shares his professional milestones, his leadership guidelines and much more. Let’s hear it from him.

Can you provide insights into the organizational identity and market standing of Jocson Construction and Management Corporation?

At Jocson Construction and Management Corporation, our identity revolves around a commitment to excellence and continuous improvement. We take pride in being a triple ISO certified company which sets us apart in the Philippine construction management landscape. This certification showcases our dedication to integrated management systems which is a testament to our engineers and architects who undergo rigorous training.

What truly distinguishes us is our approach to knowledge sharing is advocating lifelong learning, I personally engage with clients, offering free training on project management trends and tools. We extend this initiative to our contractors and subcontractors, fostering alignment in quality management practices. Our goal is not just timely project completion, but ensuring legal, quality, compliance, and a focus on environmental safety and health standards. In a competitive market, we stand tall, driven by a collective passion for innovation and client’s delight.

Share your perspective on leadership by describing your approach. What principles or methodologies guide your leadership style?

My leadership approach is rooted in situational and empathetic leadership, shaped by the unique dynamics of a workforce spanning multiple generations. As a millennial leader in a predominantly Generation Y and Z environment, I recognize the importance of adapting to varied expectations and communication styles. The traditional, top-down approach is no longer feasible. Instead, I emphasize understanding the distinct behaviors of our diverse team, particularly engineers and architects, in relation to project objectives and outcomes. This empathetic leadership allows me to connect with my team on a personal level, fostering a collaborative environment. By tailoring my leadership style to the needs of individuals in the project context, I believe we achieve a more effective and harmonious work environment.

Keeping abreast of industry trends is crucial. How do you personally stay informed about ongoing developments to strategically navigate your organization's path forward?

For me, staying informed about industry trends is a personal commitment to lifelong learning. I actively engage in seminars with colleagues, devour relevant books, and enroll in training programs at universities. As a part-time lecturer, preparing lectures keeps me on my toes, ensuring that I share the latest knowledge with my students.

This dedication extends to my role as a leader at Jocson Construction and Management Corporation. I disseminate insights gained not only to my team but also to project sites, emphasizing the importance of awareness among engineers and architects.

Could you outline the envisioned destination for Jocson Construction and Management Corporation in the future?

In the next five years, the vision for Jocson Construction and Management Corporation is one of expansive growth and service excellence. We aim to acquire more projects, particularly large scale ventures, solidifying our position as a key player in the Philippines' construction industry. Our commitment extends beyond mere expansion, we envision our engineers and architects mastering project implementation, utilizing cutting-edge tools and techniques.

By aligning with educational institutions, we've transformed our operations into a continuous learning model. Employees undergo examinations that gauge their understanding of project implementations, fostering a culture where leaving Jocson Construction means departing with enriched knowledge and skills. Our goal is to empower our team, ensuring they contribute significantly wherever their professional journey may lead.

Drawing from your extensive industry experience, what advice would you offer to emerging leaders in the field?

Based on my extensive industry experience, my advice to emerging leaders is to prioritize awareness of both technological trends and evolving management processes. The integration of AI technology, particularly in project implementation and management, is crucial for staying ahead. Understanding the behavioral competence of every employee, balancing technical and interpersonal skills, is equally vital for business development. It's essential to navigate the transition from traditional to modern approaches, recognizing and addressing the generation gap within the workforce.

Engr. Joefil Jocson, CEO, Jocson Construction and Management Corporation

With an illustrious 30-year career in the construction industry, Engr. Joefil Jocson is the dynamic Founder and CEO of Jocson Construction and Management Corporation. As a certified master and international project manager, he orchestrates the planning, execution, and delivery of quality solutions. Beyond corporate leadership, Joefil passionately imparts knowledge as a professorial lecturer and panel advisor at prestigious institutions. Holding a PhD and master's degree in engineering management, along with a post-doctoral diploma in quality management, he is a certified data protection officer. A board trustee of the Philippine Society of Quality Foundation and a recipient of numerous awards, Joefil exemplifies excellence and commitment in the construction and quality management fields.

•Favorite Hobbies: Playing golf and badminton, Reading

•Favorite Cuisine: Filipino

•Favorite Book: Reading books related to project and quality management

•Favorite Travel Destination: Japan, Singapore, Switzerland, US, Canada