At Nolato Malaysia, a global solutions provider serving the medical, automotive, and industrial markets, Tan Wai Tjun plays a pivotal role as Business Development Manager. Based in Malaysia, Tan is responsible for managing strategic key accounts and fostering strong partnerships with customers. He also oversees the company’s LinkedIn presence, where he shares updates on achievements, innovations, and capabilities. His unique blend of strategic thinking and creative communication makes him a driving force behind Nolato’s regional growth.
One of the most rewarding aspects of Tan’s role is the opportunity to engage with a diverse range of people. Whether collaborating with internal teams or interacting with clients, he thrives on the dynamic nature of his work. However, managing communication across different personalities and perspectives can be challenging. Tan tackles this by adapting his communication style to suit each individual, ensuring clarity and mutual understanding. He believes that effective leadership involves empowering others—providing guidance, sharing knowledge, and creating an environment where team members feel confident to take ownership of their roles.
A standout moment in Tan’s career at Nolato was leading a complex project that required close collaboration with sourcing and engineering teams. The challenge wasn’t just meeting customer requirements—it also involved securing supplier support for a critical material. Through strategic planning, persistent communication, and alignment of all stakeholders, Tan and his team successfully won the project against strong competition. This experience highlighted the power of teamwork, resilience, and strategic execution.
What truly sets Nolato apart, according to Tan, is its progressive culture rooted in trust, empowerment, and accountability. Inspired by the principles in No Rules Rules by Reed Hastings and Erin Meyer—a book introduced by Managing Director Dan Wong—Nolato fosters a workplace where employees are encouraged to take initiative, challenge ideas, and innovate without being hindered by excessive rules. This culture not only enhances collaboration but also motivates individuals to perform at their best.
Outside of work, Tan finds inspiration in his role as a father and his passion for art. Whether sketching, drawing, or painting with watercolors, these creative outlets help him unwind and sharpen skills like patience, attention to detail, and perspective—qualities that translate seamlessly into his professional life. “Just like in painting, achieving the best results at work often requires creativity, strategic thinking, and a willingness to experiment,” he shares.
Tan’s advice to those considering a future at Nolato is simple yet powerful: “Stay humble and dare to embrace change. Being humble allows you to learn from others and build strong relationships, while embracing change helps you adapt and grow. At Nolato, these qualities will help you thrive and make a meaningful impact.”