"Don't run before you can walk, everything will come at the right time," says Mark Lee, Director of JPG Asia

Why did you decide to work in this industry?

I studied Graphic Design at Newcastle College of Art and Design and always wanted to work in the creative industry - as a designer. But when a friend suggested I apply for an artworker role at packaging reprographics company "Gillies", I went for it. Fresh out of uni, not knowing how to use Adobe Illustrator, I had to wing it a little, but I got the job. I enjoyed it. I'd say I excelled at it. And I grew to appreciate the technical aspects of packaging design and the creative possibilities it offers.

What are your favourite things about your current role?

I love working with people to solve problems; finding different ways of doing things better. I relished the challenge to develop JPG's MIS system (the hub) back in 2018 - re-imagining how we could work together as a business more efficiently and consistently, then making that imagination a reality: designing the system and rolling it out with our brilliant teams globally. I'm so proud of colleagues who threw everything into the design, testing, feedback and embraced this new system to improve and grow the company.

What is the one piece of professional advice that you would give your younger self?

Take risks. Learn from failure... But also, be patient. Listen and learn. Don't run before you can walk everything will come at the right time, when you're ready.

When you are not at work, what are your favourite things to do?

You can find me on the trails (running) or the roads (cycling) or in the ocean (swimming) - or all three (triathlon)! I find it fulfilling and grounding to push myself to new limits and explore the great outdoors I also enjoy traveling and have been privileged to visit many new countries in Asia since I moved to Hong Kong ten years ago. It's inspiring to see how people from different backgrounds approach life and business, and it keeps me motivated to learn and grow.