Deca-Laurel 2023: Ho Han Boon on handling setbacks and building strong teams at IQI Concept

by Aisha Capulong

Han Boon, Managing Director of IQI Concept, shares his approach to leadership and teamwork, emphasising the importance of taking full ownership and keeping egos in check to fuel continuous improvement

As Managing Director at IQI Concept, Han Boon naturally has a gravity about him that is affable and open, while being fully anchored. He carries an inquisitive spark in his eyes, but even from first glance, one can tell that his day-to-day consists of him expertly, and calmly, handling all that comes his way.

Han Boon sits with a certain resolve as he speaks on how his team at IQI Concept deals with setbacks, which usually consists of taking full ownership of the issues and making sure ego never gets in the way. Over at the design studio, criticism is sincerely accepted and they, in turn, understand and address the concerns as ways to improve.

Looking back at IQI Concept’s journey, Han Boon remarks on how learning has always been one of the main foci of all systems, from actual on-site operations to how they approach design ideation. He realises that many companies tend to overlook this crucial aspect for long-term success, and that investing in one’s team will always lead to growth and evolution.

When asked on what IQI Concept’s proudest accomplishments were, Han Boon dotingly answers with, “It’s when our staff tell us how happy they are working here. It’s not just about the work we do, but [it’s also] creating an environment where people feel valued and enjoy coming to work every day.” If that isn’t a glowing testament for his leadership and dedication for his team, nothing else is.