Ir CS Chang, Founder, Pypun-KD
Hong Kong is a city in constant motion. Every day, millions of people traverse its bustling streets, navigate its towering skyscrapers, and cross its shimmering waters. It is a city that never sleeps and here, the rhythm of life is set by its vibrant transport industry. In May 2008, the streets of Hong Kong were buzzing with their usual vibrancy. Amid the urban hustle, a seasoned railway engineer made a decision that drastically altered the course of his life and forever disrupted the trends of modern urban mobility. After nearly two decades working with MTR and KCR, Ir CS Chang, the founder of Key Direction Limited, felt a tug of ambition that he could no longer ignore. It was a bold decision, to say the least.
CS’s love for railways wasn’t just a professional commitment; it was a passion. “I deeply believe railway is a booming industry globally whether it is in the economic up or down times,” he would often say. This belief, combined with his unwavering passion, led to the birth of Key Direction Limited, a consultancy firm focused on railway systems.
However, the timing of the leap was anything but ideal. As 2008 drew to a close, the world was engulfed in a financial crisis. Yet, as markets tumbled, Hong Kong announced an ambitious investment of over HKD 150 billion into railway infrastructure. It was a beacon of opportunity amidst global chaos. The city’s government launched five major railway projects that required independent consultants to ensure progress and safety. This massive development created a perfect storm of opportunity for CS’s fledgling firm.
However, the scope of these projects necessitated collaboration. Recognizing this, CS partnered with Pypun Engineering Consultant Ltd, a renowned civil works consultant with a rich legacy of 60 years. Together, they formed Pypun-KD & Associates Ltd in 2009, a joint venture poised to tackle Hong Kong’s railway challenges head-on.
Navigating Stormy Waters
Every entrepreneurial journey is replete with challenges, and CS’s path was no exception. Securing sustainable projects, delivering them on time and within budget, and finding the right talent were just a few hurdles he faced. Yet, CS’s strategy was simple but effective: build trustworthy partnerships, assemble a competent team, and maintain flexibility.
“I am fortunate that I have managed to have good and trustworthy local partners,” CS reflects. His approach to recruitment and client relations has been crucial in building a strong foundation. By securing projects with professional clients and maintaining flexibility throughout project lifecycles, he turned potential setbacks into growth opportunities.
Leading with Heart
Gone are the days when leadership was synonymous with assigning tasks and issuing orders from an ivory tower. The modern concept of leadership no longer recognizes this detached concept; rather it appreciates leaders who can gird up their loins, roll up their sleeves, and engage themselves in work alongside their teams. CS’s leadership style exemplifies this human-centric leadership style. With a career spanning over 25 years, his hands-on approach to leadership is rooted in Management By Walking Around (MBWA). This leadership style blends strategic oversight with personal engagement, bringing the leaders and their employees in close proximity, which facilitates direct interaction and better employee engagement.
In practice, this method has allowed CS to understand the day-to-day challenges and triumphs of his team, creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and heard. This method breaks down barriers between management and staff, encouraging a culture of transparency and mutual respect. “This leadership style enables me to touch base with my colleagues of all grades fairly regularly,” CS explains.
A critical aspect of CS’s leadership is his commitment to accountability and continuous improvement. He believes in taking charge of mistakes, including his own. “If I have committed a mistake as the CEO, I openly admit it and seek a way to improve,” he says. By openly addressing errors and focusing on solutions, CS ensures that his company evolves and adapts to each new challenge it faces.
Building Relationships: Friends First
For Ir CS Chang, client relationships go beyond professional boundaries. “Before they become your loyal clients, you should become their loyal friends,” he advises. This philosophy has enabled him to build lasting relationships grounded in trust and mutual respect. By treating clients as friends, he ensures they feel valued and supported, cultivating long-term loyalty and satisfaction. This strategy not only enhances client relations but also creates a network of trusted partnerships that stand the test of time.
Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
CS’s journey offers invaluable insights for budding entrepreneurs. He emphasizes the importance of passion and resilience. “Don’t give up easily when you encounter difficulties,” he advises. His mantra is clear: have a vision, embrace challenges, and remain adaptable. Seeking advice and staying flexible are key to navigating the entrepreneurial landscape.
Way Ahead: Expanding into the Hi-Tech Arena
Looking forward, CS envisions a future where Pypun-KD leverages modern technologies and explores new railway systems. From artificial intelligence and machine learning to magnetic levitation trains and Autonomous Rapid Transit Systems (ARTS), CS is committed to integrating cutting-edge technologies to enhance efficiency, safety, and sustainability.
“New initiatives adopting new technologies to reduce the carbon footprint and to augment the passenger experiences are certainly some key areas that facilitate the growth of PYPUN-KD,” he explains. This forward-thinking approach positions Pypun-KD at the forefront of innovation, ready to tackle the evolving demands of the railway industry.
A Legacy in the Making
CS’s ascent from a dedicated railway engineer to a visionary entrepreneur is a story of passion, resilience, and innovation. His leadership and strategic foresight have transformed Pypun-KD into a pivotal player in Hong Kong’s railway consultancy sector, setting a benchmark for aspiring entrepreneurs in the region.
CS’s story is a powerful reminder that with a clear vision, unwavering dedication, and the ability to adapt, one can turn dreams into reality. His journey continues to inspire, embodying the entrepreneurial spirit that drives progress and change. Through his unwavering commitment and innovative mindset, Ir CS Chang is not just building railways; he’s paving the way for the next generation of leaders and visionaries.