From a timid part-time administrator to a culture-shaping leader, Grace’s 16-year journey at TUM in Singapore is a testament to courage, empathy, and purposeful growth.
In celebration of International Women’s Day, we spotlight the people who shape TUM Asia from within — those who nurture its culture, develop its talent, and carry its mission forward each day. Grace, now Head of Corporate Services, is one of those voices.
On paper, her career looks like a steady ascent: part-time administrator to HR, HR to management. But the real transformation was internal.
“I was very shy. I couldn’t even go to the counter to order food,” she recalls of her teenage years.
The interviewer — now Vice President and Executive Director of TUM Asia — felt intimidating. Still, she said yes. Yes to discomfort. Yes to growth.
That first yes changed everything.
Walking Through the Door
TUM Asia gave her room to move across departments and grow beyond her starting point. With no HR background, she stepped into the role anyway. She learned on the job, built the team, and grew with it.
When she felt stagnant, she asked for more. When the organisation expanded, she stepped into management.
She credits her growth to “my team and my superior — and at home, my support system.” Her boss modelled empathy and compassion. Her colleagues gave honest feedback. Her family steadied her through demanding seasons.
"“Leadership isn’t about knowing everything,” she says. “It’s about progress. You may not win it all. But if you learn, you move forward.”
Over time, she adopted the same philosophy: create safe spaces, empower people, trust potential.
Leading Through Uncertainty
During COVID-19, uncertainty was real. Grace helped roll out people-first initiatives, including bonus payouts at a time when many organisations were pulling back.
“We go through good times and bad times together.”
At home, she was juggling two children, a household, and constant calls with students and stakeholders. There were days of doubt and exhaustion.
What helped was a culture that valued both professional development and personal life. Flexible policies and understanding leadership allowed her to navigate major life milestones without feeling forced to choose between career and family.
Motherhood strengthened her resilience.
“If I expect my children to persevere, I must show them how.”
She held onto one rule: “Don’t quit on a bad day. Quit on a good day so you won’t regret it.”
The Leader She Strives to Be
The greatest growth was not her title — it was her confidence. The once-shy young woman now navigates difficult conversations and shapes organisational culture. Not because fear disappeared, but because courage grew louder.
“With experience, I’ve learned to empower others and step back when needed. I’m more comfortable navigating uncertainty and change.”
She describes her leadership style as approachable, supportive, and fair. Psychological safety matters deeply to her — she wants her team to feel safe sharing ideas and raising concerns.
She leads by example: staying accountable, grounded, and respectful.
What fulfils her most?
“Seeing people grow — watching someone gain confidence and take on challenges they once thought were too big.”
She describes TUM Asia’s culture for women as supportive and empowering. Women are trusted with stretch roles and leadership opportunities. Equal opportunity is not just spoken about — it is practiced.
Growing With a Legacy
Over 16 years, she has witnessed significant change.
“When I joined, we operated with a lean team. Now we have close to 40 staff.”
TUM Asia has grown in manpower, student numbers, and reputation. Its resilience, she believes, comes from not standing still — continuously updating programmes, strengthening industry partnerships, and preparing students for real-world demands.
Being part of a 20+ year legacy in Singapore makes her proud. It began with a clear vision: to bring German engineering excellence to Asia while embracing the region’s opportunities.
“That legacy also comes with responsibility,” she says. “We must keep evolving to stay relevant for the next generation.”
What Drives Her Now
Early in her career, progression and remuneration were strong motivators.
Today, it is purpose.
“What fulfils me now is building the right culture.”
She focuses on hiring well, strengthening systems, and closing gaps as the organisation expands. Culture, she believes, must be intentionally designed and protected.
Each year, she asks herself one question:
“Am I too comfortable?”
If the answer is yes, it is time to stretch.
Her Message This International Women’s Day
To women aspiring to leadership, her advice is simple:
“Believe in your potential, even before you feel ready. You don’t need all the answers. Growth comes from trying, learning, and sometimes being uncomfortable.”
If she could speak to her younger self on her first day at work, she would say:
“Have courage. Trust yourself. Ask questions without fear. Every challenge teaches you something you will need later.”
When asked what she is most proud of, she does not name a title or achievement.
“It’s the people I’ve had the privilege to support and see grow.”
In one sentence, what does TUM Asia represent to her?
“A safe space where I can grow, make an impact, and be part of a community that truly values learning and collaboration.”
Her story is not about climbing fast.
It is about staying long enough to build something meaningful — and having the courage to grow into the leader you once needed.