Eugene Wong,
Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies 2001
The Industry Highlights series feature fellow alumni on a journey of their careers in various industries, sectors, and stories behind the scene. Find out more about our growing domestic and international community of over 70,000 Alumni through unique stories and experiences.
Murdoch Singapore alumnus Eugene found his calling working with an international business magazine.
With over 15 years of work experience in his organization, Eugene shares some insights on how the media transition over the years impacts his job roles…
What did you study at Murdoch?
I graduated back in 2001 with a BA in Communication Studies. Looking back now, it’s been 2 decades!
What do you do now?
I am currently the Executive Director for Forbes Asia and my key role is to drive revenue. My day-to-day would see me managing a team of talented individuals, working with partners across the region.
What do you think is Murdoch’s point of difference compared with other universities?
It would have to be the University’s open culture of fostering close relationships between educators and students. That had greatly facilitated the exchange of ideas, and I guess more so from an international student’s perspective. I had a great relationship with my tutors throughout my experience who were always helpful and offered great advice.
What drew you to working in the media sector?
It is a multifaceted industry. There were so many roles that one could undertake with all parts equally important – from content creation to dissemination; events management to revenue generation; marketing and programming. Being part of this dynamic ecosystem was something that truly appealed at that point in time, and more so given it was relevant to what I had studied.
What have been some of the big changes in your line of work?
The transition of Forbes from a traditional print media powerhouse to one that is digitally focused today. I had experienced first-hand the dynamic shift across the media and how it has been transformed. There is some serious tech that is put in place to enhance the user experience, which in turn translates to greater traffic (audience size) and that equates to more opportunities to maximize revenue. On that same note, almost everything is now measurable which creates a certain level of accountability and justification.
Any major transformation your job role has undertaken?
The narrative has changed. The conversation with the clients is no longer on just how powerful, influential, or respected the brand is but shifted towards measurability, effectiveness, and reach in a measurable manner. We consciously focus on leveraging the data and analytics to back up the ‘story’. That then becomes the USPs that create value for the client.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve received?
‘Be adaptable’. Changes are inevitable in every industry and happening at a breakneck speed. Adaptability, often so under-rated in my opinion, is often a key trait needed to fit into the ever-changing environment.
What is the best decision you have ever made?
This is a difficult question as there really isn’t a best or worst decision made but perhaps good and not-so-good ones. But we live with it and learn so that isn’t a bad thing.
Who inspires you?
This is another tough question. There wouldn’t be any single person that inspired me but really looking at the positive traits we all display, and how we can be inspired by that. A kid in school could inspire me as much as the CEO leading a multi-national business.
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