James Kwan

James Kwan

Location: Singapore, Singapore

Biography

James, a seasoned professional in accounting, has seamlessly transitioned into executive coaching and corporate training. With over 20 years of diverse experience across financial services, consumer goods, hospitality, property development, consultancy, and higher education, he offers a wealth of expertise.

For a decade, James served as the lead independent director for two listed companies on the Singapore Exchange. His role involved providing strategic counsel on succession planning, talent management, key personnel appointments, performance evaluation, remuneration, strategic planning, M&A, market development, financial reporting, and internal controls.

As a Certified Executive Coach, James specializes in strength-based and solution-focused coaching for C-suite leaders and directors/managers in Singapore, APAC, Europe, and the US. His approach is engaging, transformative, goal-oriented, and solution-focused, addressing areas such as performance improvement, change management, leadership effectiveness, employee empowerment, talent management, and team dynamics. Beyond coaching, James conducts corporate training on various leadership topics, both in-person and virtually, for clients across APAC, Europe, and the US. His comprehensive knowledge and engaging delivery make him a sought-after resource in professional development.

Educationally, James holds a Ph.D. in Accounting and Finance, along with eight master's degrees covering business administration, investment & finance, positive psychology, coaching psychology, higher education research, digital education, marketing, and educational assessment. He is a fellow member of esteemed accountancy bodies in Singapore, Australia, and the UK. Continuing to make significant contributions to coaching, training, and executive leadership, James stands as a respected authority in the global professional landscape.

Niche Areas of Expertise

  • Career Development
  • Change Management
  • Leaders in Transition
  • Organizational Development
  • Team Effectiveness
  • Diversity & Inclusion
  • Emotional Intelligence
  • Executive Presence

Industry Experience

  • Financial Services
  • High Tech
  • Manufacturing
  • Pharmaceuticals & Medical Products
  • Professional Services

Languages

  • English
  • Chinese (Cantonese)
  • Chinese (Mandarin)

Education

  • University of Western Australia - PhD, Finance
  • University of Strathclyde - MBA, Business Administration
  • University of Hull - MBA, Investment & Finance
  • King's College London - MS, Marketing
  • University of East London - MS, Applied Positive Psychology/Coaching Psychology
  • Oxford University - MS, Educational Assessment

Certifications

  • Hogan
  • Marshall Goldsmith Executive Coaching
  • Solutions-Focused Coaching
  • Brain-Based Coaching
  • Currently pursuing MSc Executive Coaching (Hult Ashridge) and working towards EMCC certification

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