Personal Profile - Tan Boh Ann

After my study at the Singapore Polytechnic, I was enrolled on the mandatory two and a half years National Service with the Singapore Armed Forces and completed as a Corporal in the area of Electrical and Electronics Engineering.

After my National Service, I had a period of about nine months before the start of my overseas study. Therefore, I took up a temporary job with one of the main telephony companies in Singapore. I worked as an Engineering Assistant. I assisted the Design Engineers in the design and development of phone systems. My other duties included; laying of PCB circuits, prepared prototypes, performed testing, performed measurements and design of the outer fittings of the systems.

I proceeded to the United Kingdom to further my study in the Computer Area. I obtained my Bachelor degree in Computing Science and an advanced Master degree in Systems Design at the faculty of Computer Science. I came back to Singapore in 1986 and have worked in the following areas:-

I started as a software programmer in a CAD/CAM software company. I programmed numerous screen drivers for the CAD/CAM software to work with different types of monitor. I also designed and built protective device for the company's CAD/CAM software. I assisted in the commercial division in programming the commercial software. I product managed an Expert System called RuleMaster from the States.

The next area I touched on was the AI (Artificial Intelligence) and Expert Systems. I was trained specifically as a Knowledge Engineer for 9 months and subsequently programmed numerous systems for my company as well as other companies. I progressed to become a Marketing Knowledge Engineer in one of the MNCs. My main responsibilities were to maintain and assist in the marketing of the Decision Support Systems for the Airlines industry. Besides, I prepared marketing materials, built prototypes, gave presentations and demonstrations to prospective customers in the Asia-Pacific markets. I assisted in tender writing.

I upgraded my stature to become a manager of a computer company. I managed the Integrated Systems Solutions Group proposing and selling networking solutions based on Unix, Novell and Macintosh operating systems and the interconnection of these environments. I succeeded in forming the group and achieved the sales quota and objectives. Subsequently, I managed the SCO Unix operating systems and other related products. I managed the distribution channel comprised the Systems Integrators, Value-added Resellers, Dealers and Exporters. I had progressively shifted to the Business arena.

I proposed and setup a company under a major construction company in Singapore to do high-tech trading and services. Initially, the company provided computer trading and solutions but later switched to distribution of niche and innovative products for the Asia Pacific markets. I was the active director overseeing the whole operations. I had basic hands-on experience in the vital operations.

I current responsibilities are in Sales and Marketing of Data Communication Products and Services. I handle direct corporate accounts and look for special Remote Access Solutions and Projects. My marketing duties include preparation of up-to-date marketing materials, methods and products. I also perform business development with potential Systems Integrators and Principals of Data Communication and Internet Service Providers.

1) Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry
2) Singapore Trade Development Board
3) Singapore Australian Business Council
4) Singapore China Business Group
5) The British Computer Society
6) The British Alumni