Beyond the Horizon KK Chong’s Insights on Delta’s 2024 Achievements and Aspirations

As 2024 draws to a close, KK Chong, Delta’s Head of Marketing Communication and Sustainable Development, reflects on a transformative year filled with achievements, challenges, and growth. Through his leadership, KK Chong has guided his teams to deliver on Delta’s mission of innovation and sustainability while building a strong foundation for the future. His reflections not only celebrate the accomplishments of the past year but also illuminate the values and strategies that drive Delta forward.

Personal Highlights
This year brought many memorable moments, but some stand out as especially meaningful. Reflecting on 2024, managing the grand opening of DET8 and the R&D Center stands out as one of my proudest moments. Hosting the Prime Minister at this landmark occasion, alongside over 200 distinguished guests, underscored Delta’s commitment to innovation and growth. The event, which required quick thinking to accommodate last-minute security changes, showcased the resilience and agility of my team. Their ability to adapt under pressure was inspiring, and I couldn’t be prouder of what we achieved together. Moments like these remind me of the power of collaboration and the strength of our collective efforts.

Tackling Challenges Head-On
Moving from the highlights of the year, it’s important to acknowledge the hurdles that came our way. Every major accomplishment is often accompanied by significant challenges, and 2024 was no different. One of the most pressing issues this year was recruiting and retaining talent for our Marcom team in Bangpoo. The competitive nature of the industry in downtown areas made this an ongoing struggle. To overcome this, I focused on fostering an environment that values efficiency, skill development, and camaraderie.

On the ESG front, the increasing workload from customer data and survey demands tested our limits. By empowering our ESG manager with greater autonomy and supporting the team directly, we managed to navigate these challenges without compromising quality. These experiences reinforced my belief that leadership is about more than giving direction—it’s about being there for your team and providing the tools and support they need to succeed.

Celebrating Key Achievements in 2024
After tackling the challenges, it’s rewarding to reflect on the achievements that defined 2024. This year has been filled with remarkable milestones for Delta. Improving our Dow Jones Sustainability Indices score was a significant achievement, reflecting Delta’s unwavering commitment to ESG excellence. The Gala Dinner and Summit, which brought stakeholders together, further highlighted our collective dedication to sustainability and innovation. These events weren’t merely celebrations; they symbolized the unity and shared purpose that define our journey. Looking back, these accomplishments reaffirm our dedication to shaping a better future.

Finding Inspiration Beyond Work
While achievements at work provide a sense of accomplishment, finding balance outside of work is just as vital. While work has been demanding, it’s essential to find time to recharge and draw inspiration from other areas of life. Outside of work, I recharge through regular gym sessions, staying informed on current affairs, and exploring Bangkok’s vibrant food and beverage scene. These activities give me the mental space to reflect and find new ideas that enrich both my personal and professional life. It’s not about separating work and life but finding a balance that keeps me energized and inspired.

Resolutions for 2025
As I transition into thinking about the year ahead, I find myself steering away from the idea of traditional resolutions. Life is a constant change, and I truly believe one has to be adaptable, because the world doesn’t revolve around me. Giving my best in every task I set out to do will positively impact myself and others naturally. Ironically, resolutions may become an excuse to procrastinate, as I’ve observed in people around me. Instead, I aim to remain flexible and committed to improvement throughout the year.

Vision for 2025
Building on the reflections and lessons of 2024, my vision for 2025 is one of adaptability and continuous improvement. In the coming year, we aim to enhance DJSI disclosure scores, not for recognition but as a benchmark of excellence. Supporting regional events with the highest level of professionalism and maintaining strong team dynamics will also remain top priorities. To me, a cohesive and motivated team is at the heart of achieving our broader goals. By staying true to our values, I believe we can continue to drive Delta’s mission forward.

Qualities I Admire in Friends
On a more personal note, the qualities I admire in those around me often shape how I approach relationships, both professionally and personally. Knowledge, sincerity, and humility are qualities I deeply admire in my friends. To me, a true friend, whether old or new, is someone with whom I can be myself without fear of biased judgments. Good friends inspire me to self-reflect, whether by aspiring to their strengths or reminding myself not to follow their wrongful ways. These relationships motivate me to become a better person, and I believe true friendships should encourage mutual growth and improvement.

Advice to My Younger Self
Ending on a reflective note, if I could speak to my younger self, I would simply say, “Thank you.” I am who I am because of you. It’s a privilege to be alive and well, doing the things I enjoy. If you had done it differently, who knows? I might have been filthy rich but unhappy, poorer, and unhappy, or worst of all, not alive. The journey has shaped me, and for that, I am grateful.

Closing Reflections
As Delta looks ahead to 2025, I am reminded of the values that have guided us this far. Our goal has always been to elevate Delta’s brand recognition through professionalism and dedication. While we’ve achieved much, I know that our continued success depends on staying grounded and connected to the collective efforts of everyone at Delta.

Reflecting on 2024, I see a year driven by purpose, innovation, and collaboration. As we embark on another chapter of growth and opportunity, I am grateful for the resilience of our teams and the shared vision that unites us. Together, we will continue to shape a sustainable and successful future.

About the Author (Editorial Team)

Delta Thailand

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