Real Assets, Real People

In APREA's Real Assets, Real People, we talk to an influential leader in the real assets industry to gain insights on their experiences and strategies for success.

Here's James Ong, Chief Strategy Officer of Tsao Pao Chee. 

What were you doing before you started your career in real estate/infrastructure?

I started my career in private banking in 2003 but quickly realised sales wasn't my passion. This led me to transition into investment banking, focusing on M&A deals and project financing. In 2006, I helped establish the Asian arm of Oppenheimer Investments, gaining extensive experience in project financing within the real estate and infrastructure sectors. Over the next decade, I honed my skills in executing M&A deals as an in-house corporate finance professional. At TPC, I initially focused on M&A, successfully applying my previous experience. My career has evolved over the past 20 years from private banking to a deep specialisation in investment banking, culminating in my current role as Chief Strategy Officer at TPC. This diverse background has provided me with a unique perspective and a robust skill set for our strategic initiatives.

What inspired you to pursue a career in the real assets industry?

My interest in real assets was sparked when I was managing warehousing assets for the largest privately held logistics operator in Southeast Asia. I found the process fascinating as it involved developing something from the ground up and putting it into operation. Seeing actual goods and products flowing through the system, and knowing that these are items we use in our daily lives, was incredibly satisfying and motivating. 

What is a typical day for you?

My day typically starts at around 6:15 AM when I get up to send my three kids to school. If time permits, I enjoy going for a short run around the Botanic Gardens before heading to work. My workday is usually filled with meetings, and in the evenings, I often attend networking events, usually about two to three times a week.

What are the key opportunities that you see in the current real assets investment landscape?

At TPC, Japan has been a key focus market for the past year and a half, and it will continue to be. We see unique opportunities in the market but are aware that the window of opportunity may be narrowing. Besides direct investments in Japan, we are also exploring more deals involving real estate structured products. These products offer an additional level of security with attractive coupon rates.

From a leader's perspective, how can companies navigate and thrive in an increasingly challenging business environment?

I believe that elevating the consciousness of our people can make a significant difference in how we work and live. As Albert Einstein once said, "No problem can be solved from the same level of consciousness that created it. You must learn to see the world anew." At TPC, we run programmes aimed at raising the consciousness level of our employees, which we believe will help us usher in and navigate the new era of purpose-led business.