CEO Insights Magazine

Mapua University in the Philippines boasts a remarkable cadre of alumni leaders shaping diverse industries globally. Among these distinguished individuals is Rai Antonio De Jesus, a prominent figure in the realm of procurement and supply chain management. Rai's journey from Mapua's Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering program to key leadership roles at Toyota, Accenture, Emerson, and Citibank exemplifies the university's commitment to producing industry trailblazers. 

Holding the pivotal roles of Chief Procurement Officer at EPLDT, and Vice President and Group Head for Procurement at PLDT, Rai orchestrates strategic initiatives, propelling these leading entities to the forefront of digital transformation in the Philippines.

In an in-depth conversation with CEO Insights Asia Magazine, Rai shares with us his professional milestones, leadership guidelines and much more. Let’s hear it from him.

What sets Mapua University apart in terms of unique experiences beyond academics, fostering holistic student development?

Mapua University stands out as the most prestigious engineering school in the Philippines, offering not just academic excellence but a journey that shapes individuals for high-profile roles, not only within the country but also globally. Personally, my most memorable learning experience at Mapua was honing my analytical skills, precision, and methodological approach to problem-solving. 

Beyond academics, Mapua fosters a unique sense of camaraderie and relationship-building. The diverse student body, drawn from across the Philippines provided an opportunity to connect with peers navigating the transition from provincial life to the bustling city. Our shared journey not only enriched our academic experience but also cultivated valuable life skills. Living independently in the metro as a student instilled in me a sense of independence and confidence, which proved invaluable as I ventured into the corporate world.

With two decades of experience, can you share key lessons that shaped your path to success and the fundamental principles that drive your achievements?

My journey into supply chain and procurement is deeply rooted in the invaluable lessons from my parents. My father, a logistics manager for the largest Brewery Company in the Philippines, introduced me to the intricacies of supply chain early on. Witnessing his dedication, even post-retirement when he established his own logistics company, fueled my ambition. Financial management, a crucial skill in procurement, was instilled by my frugal and resourceful mother, who guided me through college. Their combined influence shaped my approach to work and life.

How would you describe PLDT and EPLDT as an organization in the current market scenario?

PLDT and EPLDT stand as pillars of innovation in the Philippines’ market. With PLDT's nearly century-old legacy as the country's foremost telecommunications giant, I serve as the Vice President and Head of Procurement, steering strategic supply chain management. EPLDT, our dynamic IT services arm, leverages PLDT's robust infrastructure. Specializing in multi-cloud solutions and data centers, EPLDT is at the forefront of enabling enterprises to realize their digital transformation objectives. Together, we seamlessly blend tradition and cutting-edge technology, to shape the future of IT services in the Philippines.

Could you briefly outline your leadership and governance approach, emphasizing the principles guiding your leadership style and strategic decision-making?

In my leadership role, I prioritize a people-centric and goal-driven approach. Setting clear goals with the end in mind, I guide my team towards collective success. Understanding individual drivers, I delve into why team members are part of the organization and what fuels their excitement for work. My keen people-centric focus allows me to identify challenges faced by team members promptly, ensuring a supportive environment for overcoming obstacles. For me, it's not just about reaching the destination, but about fostering a collaborative and influential atmosphere where each team member's unique strengths contribute to our shared success.

What are your future career aspirations, considering your leadership, technology, and business expertise?

Over the next five years, my aspirations are anchored in elevating the procurement function to global excellence. I envision a transformation into leading digital procurement teams, leveraging AI tools to future-proof our processes and provide enhanced visibility across procurement aspects. The goal is to be recognized regionally and globally, mirroring the success of multinational companies I've previously worked with. From a logistics perspective, I plan to usher in an advanced model of automation for efficiency.

On a non-profit front, I aim to nurture the growth of supply chain and procurement in the Philippines. This involves creating opportunities for development at grassroots levels, collaborating with schools and universities to produce graduates ready for the dynamic field. Additionally, through the PLDT Enterprise Program, I intend to support small and medium enterprises, offering certifications to showcase their ability to deliver high-quality supply chain and procurement services.

Rai Antonio De Jesus, Chief Procurement Officer - EPLDT VP & Head of Procurement - PLDT

With over two decades in procurement and supply chain management, Rai Antonio De Jesus holds key roles as Chief Procurement Officer at EPLDT, and Vice President and Group Head for Procurement at PLDT. Alongside his corporate success, he enriches academia as a University Professor. Rai holds an MBA from De La Salle University, International Diploma in Supply Management from International Trade Center, and Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering from Mapua University.

Quick Facts
 • Favorite Hobbies: Participating in Triathlons
 • Favorite Cuisine: Filipino
 • Favorite Book: Atomic Habits by James Clear