【The China Post 每日精選】：三

What is your business philosophy?

We are a private company, so we can take a longer view to develop businesses because we don't need to report to analysts or shareholders every three months. It's been the recipe for our success over the years.

Though taking a long-term view, we also narrow the focus of our business. To be too broadly-based is just not viable, given the size of the Chinese market.

We take decisions to decide whether we keep those industries or not. We must be top of the class in each of the industries where we are operating.

What are the challenges in China?

To develop in the Chinese market involves a much higher level of complexity, because different markets exist within China with different spending patterns.

The regulatory environment in the country is also very different and we need to understand what we can do and what we cannot do.

What suggestions would you give to ambitious young people?

Young people should be looking beyond the borders of China, although of course there are many opportunities in China. If they have language skills, such as speaking foreign languages, there will be huge opportunities for them because many companies are expanding overseas from China and international companies also want to develop businesses in China.

What is your recipe for business success?

Professionalism, understanding your market, and focusing on the areas we want to develop the most.

Believe in yourself and try to find a passion. It is much easier when you find something that you believe in and a role that really interests you. If you can do that, you will have a better chance of success in life.

CV

Age:

Career:

2000 onwards: Jebsen: Group Managing Director

1997: Jebsen: Group Deputy Managing Director

1994: Jebsen: Board Director

1990: Jebsen: General Manager-Corporate Development

1983: Jebsen: Shipping Division's Assistant Division Manager

Education:

1987: University of Illinois, United States

1977: Formal education, Denmark

Family: married with three children