I knew we would take the executive search world by storm, and I think my sentiment was right!
Operations
If James is the head of James Kenneth Koh, then Linah is definitely the heart. Having known James since their undergraduate days in the University of Calgary, she is James’ best friend and confidante.
Linah began her career after graduation with Esprit in retail management. Next, she spent over 7 years at McDonald’s, leading a team of 65 at one of their most iconic and beloved outlets, East Coast Park. In 2005, she joined paths with James once again when she made her first foray into the talent business as Aquent Singapore’s office manager, where she up the office operations from scratch, keeping logistics and processes at tip-top standards. Linah was absolutely instrumental in helping the Singapore office grow rapidly to become an exemplary model for the region.
Linah didn’t hesitate when asked to help set up James Kenneth Koh in 2010. She brings the same uncanny sense of balance to James Kenneth Koh, where her unique blend of organisational skills and maternal instincts keeps the business (and the people behind it) well taken care of, building a company culture where every member of the team can thrive in, and be successful in their own right.
In her spare time, Linah enjoys globetrotting, good food and entertaining with family and friends. She believes in eating well (with occasional indulgences) and living each moment to the fullest. Call her up for a relaxing chat over coffee and cake, or have a virtual glass (or five) of wine with Linah (BYOB)!
Connect with Linah Lui
People know me for having a big heart and being always willing to help. They call me the “office mum”.
People don’t know that I actually value my me-time very much, as I’m constantly surrounded by so many people and involved in so many activities.
When I was 12, I wanted to be a teacher.
I start my day by clearing my head in the shower.
My favourite time of day is the end of the day, when it’s just me and myself and I, reflecting on the day’s events.
My favourite JKK moment is whenever the team makes placements, ka-ching, ka-ching… hahaha! But really, it’s the satisfaction of helping both our clients and candidates, knowing that we helped facilitate the “perfect match”.
My personal hero is my mum. She’s simply a super woman, raising 3 of us single handedly after dad passed more than 35 years ago. At times I wonder where she found the willpower, resilience and persistence.
The last person I spoke to on the phone was my boss, James Koh.
The last text I sent was to my spa-kakis group chat, planning for our Sunday virtual high-tea.
The last thing I learnt was how to create videos for Instagram and FaceBook stories.
My drink of choice is a Melbourne White from Huggs, one of the best I can find in Singapore.
The best career advice I’ve ever received is “Always look at the glass as half full, not half empty”. This has taught me to stay positive and motivated in any situation and to always make the best of it.
I’m currently reading “Foods That Cause You to Lose Weight: The Negative Calorie Effect”.
You’ll never see me without my glasses and handphone.
My work from home situation gives me mixed emotions. While I’m happy to be home spending time with mom, I miss my team dearly.
When I’m not at work I’m working on my other interests, anti-aging health and beauty.
The one talent I wish I had is the ability to sing well. I’m off-key LOL.
Cat or dog? I’m greedy, so I like both, but i’m also practical, so neither! Haha!
If I wasn’t a headhunter, I would be a baker.
The top 3 things on my bucket list are walking the Camino de Santiago, stargazing in the Sahara Desert and catching the Southern Lights (since I missed the Northern ones).
My favourite quote is “Strength grows in the moment when you think you can’t go on, but you keep going.”.