Leonardo

Leonardo is a Senior Vice President in the Technology Group. In his role as the lead for Networks & Infrastructure Security Services, he is accountable for all network-related activities, including processes, solutioning, technology decision-making, and execution as well as to ensure the security posture of GIC’s infrastructure platforms is well maintained and provide stewardship over them. 

Why did you decide to join GIC?

Before joining GIC, my understanding of the organisation was limited to its role as the fund manager for Singapore’s reserves. From an external viewpoint, I perceived GIC to be a hybrid of financial institutions and government ministries, with a culture that is high-energy, strict, and process-driven. 

In April 2021, I joined GIC to lead the network team, with the goal of modernising a wide variety of network services. My portfolio expanded to cover infrastructure security within 2 years, and I was subsequently promoted to Senior Vice President in June 2023. It is empowering to have been entrusted with the responsibility of leading and growing two teams within a short period.  

Contrary to my expectations, GIC is not as strict nor rigid as I had anticipated. I have found that there is room for me to exercise my own judgement, and management is receptive to ideas and supportive in driving modernisation and operational excellence. 

What does your typical workday look like?

I usually start my day at 8:30am, where I begin by compiling a list of my day’s key deliverables. My calendar is typically filled with a variety of meetings, ranging from small group team discussions, vendor presentations, whiteboarding sessions and to stakeholder meetings. Every two weeks, I schedule one-to-one meetings with my direct reports to provide any assistance or guidance they may need.  

I usually end my day by catching up on emails.  

What do you like most about working here?

It may sound cliché, but the people at GIC are truly exceptional. The individuals at GIC are highly intellectual and dedicated to delivering quality work. Additionally, GIC offers numerous benefits to its employees, such as medical benefits and flexible working arrangements. 

How would you describe the learning & development culture at GIC?

What drew me to this role was the opportunity to gain a broad range of experiences. I have been able to expand my knowledge of various network technologies, including newer ones such as SD-WAN, Zero Trust security, and Cloud proxy. As a people manager, I have also been able to put my leadership skills to the test as I rebuilt the network team. Although GIC provides learning and development support, I find podcasts to be a valuable source of knowledge and inspiration. 

What you should know before joining GIC

The work environment at GIC is demanding and fast-paced. However, the experience you gain here is unparalleled and not easily found in other companies.