As a young intern in the United States, Karen Chan spent a lot of time doing mundane tasks such as handling faxes and serving coffee at top American firms. Now she is running German Pool, a well-established electrical home appliances firm in Hong Kong. The family-owned company was originally a manufacturer of water heater and has added different product lines in recent years.
When did you decide to join the family business?
I studied in the US and worked there for 10 years in various fields including marketing, branding and head-hunting. I returned to Hong Kong to join the family business a few years ago. I always knew I would take it up one day.
What does your day-to-day work involve?
My role is to manage and market German Pool, which has been around for over 30 years. We have reestablished the brand and are expanding our markets, particularly on the mainland. I see myself as a project manager who links up all the company's business units and makes them work. I don't have the technical background for the job, but I am backed up by a lot of staff who have the technical skills.
What is the most exciting part of your job?
