How Andy Chang raises market standards with advanced solutions and thought leadership

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“Innovation is about changing our interactions with the world, not only about producing something new,” says Andy Chang (Nay Lin Zaw), global head of marketing technology and engagement solutions at Electrolux Group. 

Pivotal achievements mark Chang’s career in financial and consumer goods. As the leader of consumer engagement solutions, he spearheads marketing technology initiatives and transformative projects that drive success for European multinational corporations. 

Transforming customer engagement

Chang’s mission is to leverage technology to set new industry benchmarks. Over the past decade, his visionary initiatives have revolutionized how businesses connect with customers, fostering deeper engagement and loyalty.

From July 2019 to May 2023, Chang served as director of marketing technology for the APAC and MEA regions, managing a team of five and coordinating with over 40 experts and technologists from external vendors across various locations. This role was instrumental in preparing him for his current global responsibilities. 

Thought leadership and industry impact

Chang’s influence extends beyond his operational success; he is also a respected thought leader in marketing technology. Actively involved in the Asia-Pacific Region (APAC) community, he hosts a popular podcast that chronicles his career journey and offers insights into multinational leadership.

His podcast covers a wide range of topics, including his transition from a software engineer in Thailand to a global technology leader, the latest trends in marketing technology, AI advancements, the psychological facets of tech leadership, and the often-neglected importance of dynamics between Marketing and Information Technology teams in multinational corporations. 

His expertise is further recognized through his role on the Marketing Technology Summit advisory board, where he shapes conference agendas on crucial industry topics.” Engaging with the APAC marketing technology community has been invaluable for sharing knowledge and learning from peers,” Chang notes. 

His commitment to thought leadership is evident in his mentorship of emerging professionals and his contributions to trade journals, where he explores intricate aspects of marketing and consumer technology.

Strategic vision and market trends

Driven by digital transformation, sustainability, and personalized experiences, Chang’s strategic initiatives position Electrolux for continued success and relevance. Sustainability is a crucial focus for Chang. He has been a driving force behind developing eco-friendly appliances that meet the growing consumer demand for green products. This initiative addresses customer needs and reinforces the company’s commitment to sustainability, resonating with today’s environmentally conscious consumers.

He has played a pivotal role in setting up the technologies end-to-end for Levande, a new Singapore Business Review Technology Excellence Award-winning and innovative home appliances subscription business fully powered by cutting-edge e-commerce technologies. 

Rather than making outright appliance purchases, consumers can opt for a rental or subscription model with a fixed monthly fee. It encourages a circular economy by recycling and reusing appliances, reducing the growing mountains of e-waste, and contributing to a more sustainable future.

Integrating cutting-edge technologies

Emerging technologies like AI, the Internet of Things (IoT), and blockchain will further transform the consumer goods industry by 2030. Chang envisions a future where these innovations are seamlessly integrated into everyday life, enhancing sustainability and convenience.

Cloud technology is not just a significant part of the present but also a critical component of the future. Chang is an advocate with deep experience in cloud migration efforts for multinational corporations. Recently, Chang successfully led the migration and re-platforming of marketing technologies to the cloud. 

“Our goal is to create products that meet current needs and anticipate future demands,” Chang explains. His vision includes expanding IoT to develop smart home ecosystems where appliances communicate to optimize energy usage and enhance consumer convenience.

“Leadership means guiding others towards a shared vision and inspiring them to surpass their expectations,” Chang asserts. His unique ability to blend technological innovation with human-centered strategies sets his leadership apart. By elevating market standards, Chang’s work demonstrates that authentic leadership transcends business success, aiming to make a lasting impact on the world.