Over 30 Years of Experience
After his graduation in 1987, Mr. Sangchai joined Siam Kraft Industry Co., Ltd. (Banpong Plant) as an R&D engineer. He would later oversee its quality and environmental works too before being transferred to the Wangsala Plant to supervise its manufacturing in 2003. He was finally promoted as Director – Banpong Plant and then as Director – Wangsala Plant. In 2013, he took an overseas posting for the first time.
“I was posted to Vina Kraft Paper Co., Ltd. in Vietnam. Back then, the Vietnamese market was growing very fast. So, I decided to install the second paper manufacturing machine for Vina Kraft in 2016. Not only that the installation was completed five months early, but it also marked the first time European and Chinese technologies were combined for paper manufacturing. In 2018, I was summoned back to Thailand to serve in my current post,” Mr. Sangchai revealed.
4 Key Principles for Fruitful Collaboration
At plants, Mr. Sangchai’s focus was on manufacturing efficiency. But now that he has become an executive, his focus is on the overall picture and how to direct all involved toward the same direction. “My main job responsibility is to coordinate with SCGP’s packaging paper manufacturers in Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Indonesia to achieve synergy for the firm’s maximum benefits. I always apply the following four key principles:
1. Teamwork – when working together, all involved must talk and present their different opinions. Conclusions can then be made together. It is better than working solo;
2. Common Goal – with a shared goal and a holistic viewpoint, it is easier to achieve collaboration and synergy for maximum benefits within a specified timeframe;
3. Cheer Up – I provide counseling and support as all involved work toward the goal. I recognize small wins and offer praise; and
4. Challenge – I nudge my team to think fresh and try something new all the time. While the COVID-19 crisis reduces opportunities for team members to meet up, the firm has provided a solid infrastructure for the team to work online with least obstacles.”
Sustainability-Themed Business Operations
SCGP has embraced ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) concept in its operations. By addressing key sustainability topics, SCGP has maintained well-balanced output. “We have balanced all ESG elements. For the environment, we pay attention to water, air, and waste issues with an emphasis on maximum resource efficiency,” Mr. Sangchai explained.
“For society, we take care of our customers, vendors, staff, and local communities. Mutual communications let us know what they want. For example, when we know what communities need, we use our expertise to fulfill them. As communities have local products, we offer distribution channels to support their income generation,” he continued.
“We also ensure our plants are safe and friendly to the environment for mutual coexistence with local people. As an organization, SCGP maintains good ties with neighbors for our sustainable growth,” he added.
“Last but not least, we have accorded importance to corporate governance, risk management, and innovation development. As we constantly develop our products, we are able to fulfill our customers’ needs,” he concluded.
Constant Knowledge Seeking & Self-Improvement
“I have always improved myself with constant search for more knowledge. I have learned more from various sources such as the internet and experienced people. I always look for tips that will enhance my work approach. At the end of each workday, I reflect on what I did well and what I think I could improve,” Mr. Sangchai revealed.
In his view, data analytic and automation help him get jobs done faster without compromising quality. Machine learning and artificial intelligence (Al), just like innovations, deliver useful contributions.
“I would like to encourage all of you to work as a team. Let’s work together in earnest and with consistency to achieve our common goals!” he added.