Passing of Baton to New CEO

Monday, 17 March 2014, marked a significant chapter in the HSL story. Managing Director Lim Choo Leng - the founding and pioneer generation of HSL - handed over the leadership torch to Executive Director Charles Quek.  Charles assumed the new appointment of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) where he is responsible for steering the tone and direction of HSL’s business, as well as presiding over its day-to-day operations.

Having been at the helm for 20 years and overseeing the growth of HSL - from a small local foreshore engineering constructor to a medium-sized regional firm - MrLim, 70, will be taking up the advisory role as HSL's Chairman.  He will be channeling more of his time and energy to mentoring people and pursuing meaningful philanthropic works. 

In his parting personal note to the staff and partners, Mr Lim reiterated, “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give”.  He paid tribute and extended his gratitude to all the staff and workers for their "dedication, belief, passion, willingness and perseverance" over the last two decades and, for bringing HSL to where it currently is.   

Charles Quek's appointment as the new CEO was a unanimous decision of the founding partners and the careful orchestration of the HSL Board. Having joined HSL as an engineer 18 years earlier, he rose through the ranks and played a significant part in the company's growth.  Accepting the conductor's baton, Charles briefly shared on the overture ahead, "The rhythm and tone may vary from previously so as to suit the changing regional landscapes and challenges. However, the HSL melody shall always represent our greater purpose as a business entity – a greater HSL for a better world".

(from top left): The three founding directors – Lim Choo Leng, Teng Soo Hai and Wong Chin Sing, with then-Executive Director Charles Quek, at the launch of the new HSL corporate logo in 2010;

As its Managing Director, Lim Choo Leng had steered HSL from its embryonic and infant stages through to becoming an over $100million annual turnover firm in 2013.  Mr Lim now assumes the new role of Chairman.

Over 18 years, Charles Quek’s rise at HSL - from an engineer to an Executive Director - had the guidance and mentorship of Mr Lim.

 Mr Lim presenting a copy of the company’s certificate of registration to new CEO Charles at the simple yet symbolic handover ceremony.
 

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