Tan Pheng Hock, Former CEO of ST Engineering, Passes Away at 68
Tan Pheng Hock, the former chief executive of ST Engineering, died on Tuesday (Mar 4) at the age of 68.
A Pioneering Career
The industry veteran, who served as CEO from 2002 to 2016, was instrumental in growing the mainboard-listed group into a global company. Tan started his career as an engineer in ST Marine in 1981. He rose up the ranks and was appointed to the role of president and CEO of ST Engineering early 2002, against the backdrop of the Sep 11 terrorist attacks in the United States, which had cast a shadow on the business environment.
Challenges and Triumphs
During his tenure, the group had to contend with challenges posed by the severe acute respiratory syndrome (Sars) outbreak in 2003 and the global financial crisis in 2008. Under his leadership, ST Engineering grew its business internationally through significant acquisitions and investments across its business sectors. He also set up ST Engineering’s Advanced Engineering Centre, which developed future technologies and capabilities.
Awards and Recognition
Tan stepped down from the position in September 2016. At the time, ST Engineering’s then chairman Kwa Chong Seng described Tan as having led ST Engineering to “scale great heights” by developing the group from a Singapore-centric company into an integrated engineering group with a global presence. In 2014, ST Engineering became the only Singapore company to make it to Forbes’ list of the world’s most innovative companies.
Tan himself received many accolades throughout his career. In 2012, he received the Best CEO Award at the Singapore Corporate Awards. He was also named Asia’s Business Leader of the Year in 2013 by media group CNBC for his efforts in putting ST Engineering on the global map.
Later Career and Directorships
More recently, Tan served as a non-executive and independent director at property developer Frasers Property since 2018. He was a member of the group’s sustainability and risk management committee. He retired from office in 2025. He was also appointed to the board of the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore, and stepped down from the position in June 2024.
Conclusion
Tan Pheng Hock’s passing leaves a void in the business community, but his legacy will continue to inspire and motivate future generations of business leaders. His contributions to ST Engineering’s growth and success will be remembered for years to come.
FAQs
Q: What was Tan Pheng Hock’s role at ST Engineering?
A: Tan Pheng Hock was the CEO of ST Engineering from 2002 to 2016.
Q: What were some of Tan Pheng Hock’s notable achievements during his tenure at ST Engineering?
A: Tan Pheng Hock led ST Engineering to grow its business internationally, set up the Advanced Engineering Centre, and received several awards and recognition for his leadership.
Q: What did Tan Pheng Hock do after stepping down as CEO of ST Engineering?
A: Tan Pheng Hock served as a non-executive and independent director at Frasers Property and was a member of the group’s sustainability and risk management committee. He was also appointed to the board of the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore.
