A Multifaceted Professional Journey

Sulian’s professional journey began with a law degree from the National University of Singapore, where she graduated with honors and was called to the Bar. However, her first love was banking, and she spent nearly a decade in Indonesia working as a corporate banker for a British bank. This initial chapter in her career laid the foundation for her robust financial acumen and strategic thinking, skills that would later prove invaluable in her subsequent roles.

Her career took a significant turn when she transitioned into the hospitality industry, where she oversaw operations across China, Vietnam, and Indonesia. It was during this period that Sulian developed a keen eye for detail and an appreciation for the intricacies of customer service and experience—elements that are crucial in the retail sector.

Sulian’s foray into real estate began when she served as General Manager for Wisma Atria mall and Capital Square in Singapore’s Central Business District. Her role in these prestigious properties, coupled with her involvement in the due diligence process for the acquisition of a third of Ngee Ann City, further honed her expertise in commercial real estate.

The Accidental Retail Real Estate Professional

Despite her extensive background, Sulian describes herself as an “accidental real estate professional.” Her passion for retail, rather than real estate, is the driving force behind her success. Sulian’s experience at the Singapore Tourism Board, where she managed the retail and tourism shopping division, played a pivotal role in her transition to retail real estate. This role allowed her to blend her knowledge of hospitality and retail, which has become her unique value proposition in the industry.

At Savills Singapore, where she has been for 16 years, Sulian was instrumental in setting up the Retail real estate business. Her leadership has been marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence, a deep understanding of the retail sector, and an entrepreneurial spirit that drives innovation.

Leading with Integrity and Vision

Under Sulian’s leadership, Savills Singapore’s Retail division has thrived, even in the face of challenges such as the rise of e-commerce and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Sulian attributes her success to a leadership style that aligns closely with the company’s values: integrity, entrepreneurial thinking, and a commitment to quality.

She believes in leading by example, fostering a culture of trust and empowerment within her team. By understanding and leveraging the strengths of different generations, Sulian Tan-Wijaya ensures that her team remains motivated and engaged. Her openness to learning from younger employees and her willingness to adapt to modern working styles have made her a respected and effective leader.

Navigating Challenges with Resilience

The retail real estate sector is fraught with challenges, from the rapid obsolescence of physical retail spaces due to e-commerce to the economic impact of global events like the COVID-19 pandemic. Sulian has navigated these challenges with a pragmatic and forward-thinking approach. She recognizes the importance of adaptability and the need to stay ahead of market trends to ensure the sustainability of her business.

One of the most pressing challenges in Singapore’s retail landscape is the closure of restaurants due to high costs and sluggish sales. Sulian’s approach to this issue is both strategic and cautious. She focuses on bringing in strong tenants who can sustain their businesses, ensuring long-term success for both the tenants and the malls.

Embracing Trends and Innovating for the Future

Sulian is keenly aware of the evolving trends in the retail industry. From the rise of ultra-luxury brands to the growing popularity of “competitive socializing” in retail spaces, she stays ahead by continuously adapting her strategies. Her understanding of these trends enables her to provide invaluable advice to landlords on curating the optimal tenant mix.

Moreover, Sulian is optimistic about the role of technology in shaping the future of retail real estate. While she acknowledges the limitations of artificial intelligence in replacing the nuanced expertise required in retail real estate, she sees immense potential in leveraging technology to enhance efficiency and client relationships.

A Balanced Approach to Leadership and Personal Life

Sulian Tan-Wijaya ‘s leadership style is not just about driving business success; it’s also about maintaining a healthy work-life balance. She emphasizes the importance of finding joy in one’s work and creating a fulfilling career that doesn’t feel like a burden. For Sulian, this balance is achieved through her love for music, spending time with family and friends, and engaging in leisure activities that recharge her spirit.