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ICDM Pulse: Future in Focus
In an era of unprecedented change and disruption, the strength and continuity of an organisation’s leadership are more critical than ever. We’ve all witnessed how quickly market dynamics can shift, and how essential it is to have a robust and adaptable leadership pipeline.
This month, we turn our attention to a topic that is fundamental to long-term organisational success and resilience: Future-Proofing Leadership: Why Succession Planning Starts in the Boardroom. While often perceived as an HR function, effective succession planning is, at its core, a strategic imperative that originates from the highest level of governance. It’s about proactive foresight, identifying and nurturing the next generation of leaders, and ensuring the seamless transition of critical roles.
In this issue, we delve into why the board’s active involvement in succession planning is not just beneficial, but essential for safeguarding an organisation’s future. We’ll explore best practices, key considerations, and the strategic advantages of a boardroom-led approach to talent stewardship.
In this context, I’m also pleased to share that I’ll be joining Tunku Alizakri, former CEO of EPF and current Chair of Collektr, in an upcoming conversation with BFM on leadership transitions and purposeful governance. Details of that conversation can be found below.
As I prepare to hand over the reins at ICDM as of 5 August 2025, this dialogue is especially meaningful—highlighting the importance of forward-looking succession planning at both organisational and national levels. We invite you to tune in and hope you find the insights shared valuable and thought-provoking as we collectively strive to build more resilient and future-ready organisations.
My journey has been one of the most meaningful and rewarding chapters of my career. I am deeply grateful to each and every one of you—our members—for your trust, engagement, and unwavering commitment. Together, we have elevated corporate governance and board effectiveness, laying strong foundations that support our nation’s pursuit of sustainable and responsible leadership.
We’ve built something truly remarkable in a relatively short span of time. While there is still much more ahead, the path forward is bright and full of promise. Jackie Mah, our current Executive Vice President, will be stepping up as the new President & CEO. With her capable leadership and deep understanding of our mission, I know ICDM will continue to thrive. You are in excellent hands.
With that, I bid you farewell—and thank you, once again, from the bottom of my heart.
Catch my upcoming conversation with Tunku Alizakri, former CEO of EPF and current Chair of Collektr, where we’ll explore these themes in greater depth. I’d be honoured if you could tune in.
Channel: BFM
Date/Time: Wednesday, 16 July 2025 @ 11.00am