From failing JC student to global retail leader: CEO shares how he built his career
From a student who struggled academically in junior college and Nanyang Technological University (NTU) to being the youngest president of Carrefour Group, Mr Shafie Shamsuddin's story is one of determination, resilience, and breaking barriers.
Despite early setbacks, including failing his first-year examination at Jurong Junior College, Mr Shafie went on to achieve what many only dream of - becoming the first non-European CEO of Carrefour at the age of 35 years old.
With his signature long hair and love for hanging out with his motorcycle group during his university days, Mr Shafie, who is currently the President Director and CEO of PT. Trans Retail, Indonesia, never imagined he would be leading a global retail giant in his mid-30s.
However, Mr Shafie admitted that success did not come easy, as he admits candidly that being the youngest CEO comes with its own set of challenges.
"Being a young CEO can be challenging, as my employees in Malaysia were not confident of my ability to lead given that I am not French and had zero experience as CEO," shares the recipient of the Berita Harian Achiever of the Year Award in 2010.
Yet, his commitment and ability to fulfil his promises to make changes when necessary and restart the expansion and growth plan soon won him the trust of his employees.
His unwavering commitment and adaptability to growth propelled him to global leadership. He has now built an exceptional career, having led businesses across Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and France.
A visionary intrapreneur
Mr Shafie is not only a business leader, but also a visionary intrapreneur who constantly pushes the boundaries of innovation in retail and lifestyle.
His passion for empowering people and embracing diversity has shaped his leadership philosophy. His tenure at Carrefour saw him implement retail solutions that transformed customer experiences across multiple countries.
In his current role, a position he took on in January 2024 for the second time, Mr Shafie continues to lead with purpose.
Having guided the company from 2013 to 2019, he returns with renewed vision and energy, managing nearly 100 multi-brand stores across Indonesia under the Transmart and Multimart brands.
International experience and achievements
Mr Shafie's career is a testament to his versatility and global leadership. In addition to his work in retail, he serves as Chairman of Siti Khadijah Group, a leading Islamic fashion and lifestyle brand, and has held several prestigious roles, including Senior Independent Non-Executive Director at Petronas Dagangan Berhad and Group Managing Director and CEO of AEON Group Malaysia.
His accomplishments extend beyond business. As a recipient of the Berita Harian Achiever Award in 2010, Mr Shafie has been recognised for his contributions to the community and his dedication to leadership excellence.
He was also awarded The Business Times Outstanding CEO (Overseas) of the Year in 2016 for his extensive achievements globally.
Now at the top of his field, Mr. Shafie is eager to give back and share the lessons he has learnt along the way.
His fireside chat at the Jauhari Series, titled 'Growing and learning from setbacks', will be an opportunity for youths to hear first-hand how he navigated his career challenges to become one of the most successful global leaders in the retail industry.
The event is part of the Jauhari Series, a monthly dialogue session supported by the government feedback unit, Reach will be in English.
It is open to all youth between 18 and 35 years old and will be held at the Working Title cafe in LASALLE College of the Arts on Oct 22.
At the sessions, participants can seek advice from guest speakers, and share their aspirations.
Past guests include former President, Madam Halimah Yacob and Mr Shahrin Abdol Salam, SingPost's chief executive officer for its Singapore business, who are past recipients of BH's Achiever of the Year award. The award recognises Malay/Muslim individuals who excel in their chosen fields.
Interested youths who are interested to attend Mr Shafie's session can register at https://go.gov.sg/omgxbh-6.
