We recently had the privilege of having a conversation with Richard Soo, an adept professional and the Co-Founder of MEP Meeting and Exhibition Planners Sdn Bhd. Amidst all the hustles, planning an event meticulously might seem a daunting task. But leaders like Richard Soo are changing this story and creating memorable moments with events for businesses globally.
With nearly three decades of expertise in this region, Richard Soo has garnered a team of talented professionals with expertise in each event. In this interview, Richard speaks about how he started in the field of event management, the presence of MEP in the market, and staying ahead of the competition. Join us as we delve into Richard Soo’s journey and his insights regarding his work.
The Beginning
Eager to learn about the advent of Richard Soo’s professional journey, we asked, “Can you please provide us with some information about yourself, including your early life and education?”
Richard shares, “I am the Co-Founder of MEP Meeting & Exhibition Planners Sdn Bhd, which I started with my sibling, Karen, right after graduating from law college. Raised by a single mother, Karen and I learned the value of mutual reliance, which later became the cornerstone of our joint venture.
Our agency, now recognized for transcending both geographical and industry boundaries, was inspired by my vibrant years in a rapidly developing Singapore during the 80s. That era of dynamic growth instilled in me a boundless creative spirit and a conviction in the realm of possibilities – a mindset that has been the bedrock of my career in event management.”
Company Overview
To learn about the presence of MEP in the Asia Pacific region, we asked, “Could you tell us about your company and its presence in your region?”
Richard shared enthusiastically, “MEP began modestly, organizing small corporate gatherings and celebrations. As we built our reputation, clients began entrusting us with larger, more prominent events that expanded our operational horizons. This growth allowed us to cultivate a vast repository of ideas and experiences, which we’ve applied across various industries. Now, we’re a global entity with a formidable network of partners, and we proudly serve a diverse clientele throughout the Asia Pacific region.”
Leadership Qualities
To understand the perspective of Richard Soo on being a successful leader, we inquired, “In your opinion, what qualities make a successful leader in your industry?”
He passionately responded, “In my view, kindness is paramount in leadership—it’s the essence that enables us to connect and empathize with others, forming the fabric of our company culture and external relationships. Integrity follows, ensuring we remain true to our word, transparent about our capabilities, and unwavering in our commitments. Lastly, the ability to consistently deliver exceptional value is what sets us apart in this competitive landscape.”
Staying Ahead Of The Curve
We were curious to learn how Richard Soo ensures to adapt to all the latest market developments. So, we asked, “How has your organization responded to the ongoing digital revolution and tech-driven changes?”
Richard said, “In the face of the digital revolution, MEP has embraced technology as an indispensable asset. Since our early days, we have worked closely with the IT and telecommunications sectors, always staying abreast of the cutting edge. Our ongoing education in and adoption of AI and other technological advancements enhance our efficiency and effectiveness, ensuring that our team is well-equipped to leverage the latest innovations for our clients’ benefit.”
Words Of Wisdom For Newcomers
Lastly, addressing the aspiring entrepreneurs, we asked, “What advice would you give to someone just starting in your field?”
“My advice for those entering the field is threefold: Aim to exceed expectations in every endeavor. Seek out projects that fuel your passion, not just your pocket. And have the courage to chase and refine your ideas, for it’s the caliber of execution that transforms a good concept into a stellar reality.” Richard concluded.
Follow Richard Soo on LinkedIn.
Find MEP on LinkedIn and visit their website https://www.mep.com.my/.
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