CEO Insights Magazine

With the global TIC market valued at over $200 billion in 2023, the demand for testing, inspection and certification services related to safety, quality, and certification is skyrocketing. Leaders must stay ahead of trends such as Cybersecurity, Mobility, AI and Sustainability to develop new businesses. Keity Kim, CEO and Managing Director of TUV Nord Korea, is a seasoned expert with over 27 years of experience in the Testing, Inspection, and Certification (TIC) industry. He currently leads Korea and Asia business in TUV Nord Group and previously served as the Country GM for UL, where he was responsible for P&L, quality management, lean six sigma, and global operations, and holds certifications such as PMP and MBB. With a strong TIC industry background, Keity has cemented his reputation as a trusted and influential figure in the TIC industry through his passion for continuous learning and innovation.

Embarking in an engaging interaction with CEO Insights Asia magazine, Keity shares his strategies, future roadmap, and much more. Let’s delve into it.

What valuable experiences and skills did you gain at Yonsei University?

One of the most important skills I acquired during my time at Yonsei University was the power of communication, collaboration, and critical thinking. I was surrounded by peers, professors, and mentors who shared similar passion, allowed me to exchange ideas, give and receive feedback, and build social networks. This experience has not only deepened my knowledge but also broadened my perspective on how to approach challenges.

You hold rich experience in the TIC industry. What is your success mantra?

My success mantra has always been to have a clear career plan paired with strong execution. From the start, I mapped out key career milestones to sharpen my qualifications and skills and stayed on track. I have stayed disciplined and focused throughout my journey. For me, success is a blend of planning, execution, and continuous growth.

Could you tell us about your leadership approach? What are the guidelines or methodologies you follow to lead your team?

My leadership approach is built on three core principles, namely trust, strategy, and execution. Trust is the foundation of everything I do. I see leadership as a partnership, not a hierarchy. It's about mutual respect, where open communication allows both leaders and team members to understand and value each other’s contributions. Without trust, it’s hard to build a strong team.

The second principle is having a clear strategy. A well-defined vision and mission keep everyone aligned and moving toward common goals. When the team knows where they are headed, they are more motivated, and aligned with the goals.

Lastly, execution is key. Even the best strategies mean little if not carried out with precision. I make sure we follow through with accountability, ensuring that every action brings us closer to our goals.

How do you keep yourself up to date with the ongoing industry trends?

I keep myself updated with industry trends through continuous self-development and a structured annual plan. Each year, I set personal goals that align with my career aspirations and work diligently to achieve them. This disciplined process helps me track progress, adapt to changes, and celebrate my growth at the end of each year.

I also focus on maintaining a healthy balance between physical health and mental well-being. I believe that a strong body and mind are essential What is the future roadmap you have envisioned for yourself for the next five years?

We are executing the current five-year growth strategy, which concludes in 2026, and my aim is to execute and achieve this growth strategy goal for our company.

Beyond that, I am also aligned with TUV Nord Group’s Horizon 2030 strategy, which outlines an exciting global roadmap for growth. Locally, my role is to implement this strategy effectively, ensuring not just the company’s expansion but also the career development of our employees.

As for me, I am working on continuous self-development. I want to further enhance my leadership skills and strive to become one of the most trusted leaders in the TIC industry.

What is a piece of advice that you'd like to give to the upcoming leaders?

The TIC industry is a fascinating field where you can grow in a global marketplace while taking pride in contributing to public safety. Try to embrace the unique opportunities this field offers.

I often mention two concepts, Chronos time, which is the passage of time, and Kairos time, which is about leading and optimizing time. I believe that as leaders, we must master time, not just follow it. We need to make every moment count by maximizing efficiency and impact.

Keity Kim, CEO & Managing Director, TUV Nord Korea

Keity Kim has a Bachelor of Engineering in Environmental Engineering from Seoul National University of Science and Technology and a Master's in Environmental Health from Graduate School of Public Health, Yonsei University. He earned an iMBA from Sungkyunkwan University and completed advanced programs in ESG and Standards from Chung-Ang University. Keity also graduated Management School of Yale's 1 year UL Executive Leadership Program.

Hobbies: Mountain Hiking and Golfing

Favorite Cuisine: Korean Bibimbap

Favorite Book: The Essential Drucker on Individuals by Peter F. Drucker

Favorite Travel Destination: Australia

Awards and Recognition: Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt certification, co-authored ‘Failure is Nothing’ in 2022.