He started as an intern at Greencarrier Consolidators in Gothenburg, was offered a full-time job working with import and export, and is now a Business Development Manager in Singapore. Meet our talented colleague Filip Pehrsson, who is not afraid to embrace new opportunities and believes the best approach to take on new challenges is an open mindset.
Hi Filip! You are currently developing our LCL business in Singapore. What drove you to seize this opportunity?
Embracing new opportunities often leads to development, both personally and professionally. For me, the decision to pursue a job opportunity in Singapore was a chance to experience a vibrant global city, expand my perspective, and contribute to the development of our new office. Singapore’s reputation as a global logistics hub and its business environment were key factors that motivated me to embark on this journey.
How did you adapt to living and working in a new country?
Moving to a new country can be challenging, but I approached it with an open mind and a willingness to embrace the local culture. Rather than seeking out familiar comforts from Sweden, I immersed myself in the Singaporean way of life, learning from locals and adopting their lifestyle. This has not only helped me integrate smoothly but also enriched my experience by providing insights into a different way of living and working.
What have been some of the biggest challenges you have faced while working in Singapore, and how did you overcome them?
While working abroad certainly presents its challenges, I find Singapore to be remarkably accommodating. The widespread use of English and the high standard of living have made the transition smooth for me, giving me a sense of stability and confidence as I navigate through my professional and personal endeavours here.
In what ways has your experience working in Singapore influenced your professional growth and skill set?
Working in Singapore is an enriching experience that has broadened my perspective on both operational strategies and commercial insights. Interacting with colleagues and customers from different cultural backgrounds has improved my communication skills and deepened my understanding of the LCL business. Singapore’s position as a global business hub also provides invaluable insights into international trade and commerce. It emphasises the importance of taking a holistic view of business operations, considering global implications rather than solely focusing on local markets.
You have been in Singapore for six months now. Reflecting on your time here so far, what are your most memorable moments?
From experiencing the Chinese New Year to festive celebrations like our Swedish Christmas party, complete with a visit from Santa and traditional Swedish treats, my time in Singapore has been filled with memorable moments. On a professional level, witnessing the growth and development of my team and learning from diverse perspectives have been highlights of my experience.
What advice would you give someone considering working abroad, particularly in Singapore?
My advice is to embrace the experience. Explore the city, immerse yourself in the local culture, and be open to trying new things. Invite friends and family to share your adventure, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your new community for support. Sooner than you think, it will feel like home. My time here has been not only professionally enriching but also personally fulfilling. It has reinforced the importance of embracing diversity, seizing opportunities, and approaching challenges with resilience. Whether you are considering a similar venture or simply seeking inspiration for your own journey, I hope my experiences serve as an inspiration for stepping outside of your comfort zone.
It certainly does! Thanks for sharing your experience and letting us tag along on your development journey, Filip.
A world of possibilities at your fingertips with Greencarrier
As a Greencarrier employee, you are part of a global community – a team of 270 individuals spread across 11 countries – where opportunities abound. We take pride in seeing our team members grow. Our goal is to open doors for them to explore new horizons, develop fresh skills, advance in their roles, and gain insights into different business domains across a spectrum of work settings worldwide.
