Fueling the Future: Kevin Tom on Driving Innovation and Momentum in Southeast Asia

An Exclusive Interview with the Head of SEA Energy Infrastructure Platform

As the new year unfolds, Delta's internal employee magazine had the privilege of sitting down with Kevin Tom, Head of the Southeast Asia Energy Infrastructure Platform. With a theme centered around Building Momentum to Propel the Year Forward, Kevin shares insights into achievements, challenges, and the vision shaping Delta’s energy initiatives in Southeast Asia.

Reflecting on 2024: Building Foundations for the Future
Momentum begins with the right foundation. Reflecting on 2024, Kevin emphasizes that achievements made in the past year serve as critical steppingstones for future progress.

Q: What was a key achievement or breakthrough in 2024 that set the stage for progress in 2025?
A standout moment in 2024 was Delta’s successful bid for its first energy storage project in Southeast Asia. This landmark project, involving 16 microgrid sites on Palawan Island in the Philippines, showcased Delta’s ability to deliver a complete turn-key solution. By integrating cutting-edge storage systems, power conditioning systems, and an advanced energy management control system, the project not only highlighted Delta’s capabilities but also laid a solid foundation for scaling such initiatives across the region in 2025 and beyond.
Q: How did your team overcome challenges last year to create momentum for the future?
Last year posed significant challenges in the EV charging station (EVCS) sector, particularly with fierce price competition. Our response? Innovation and adaptability. The sales team focused on enhancing customer value, exploring solution-driven business models, and forming strategic collaborations. A notable success was our partnership with OEMs in Indonesia, bundling EVCS solutions into a compelling value proposition. Additionally, Delta India became a sourcing hub for EVCS chargers, improving price competitiveness. These strategies enabled us to tackle challenges head-on, while positioning us for long-term growth and innovation.

Sustaining Energy and Progress: The Year Ahead
Momentum is sustained when a clear vision meets relentless execution. Kevin’s strategy for 2025 is centered on seizing opportunities, scaling successes, and driving innovative projects that cater to Southeast Asia's growing energy needs.

Q: What’s one project or initiative in 2025 that you’re most excited about, and why?
The expansion of energy storage solutions (ESS) in Southeast Asia excites me the most. As the region’s demand for reliable, sustainable energy grows, we see immense potential. To capitalize on this, we’ve assembled a dedicated ESS solutions team focused on creating tailored turn-key solutions for the commercial, industrial, and utility markets. By addressing customer needs and navigating complex regulatory landscapes through strategic partnerships, we are positioning Delta as a leader in delivering future-ready energy solutions.

Q: How do you plan to sustain energy and focus throughout the year to achieve your goals?
Balancing focus between the mature EVCS business and growing the ESS/PCS solutions portfolio is key. Hiring and coaching a high-performing team is a top priority. Regular check-ins, clear goals, and fostering a collaborative culture ensure we stay aligned. Personally, I stay energized by maintaining work-life balance, which helps me approach challenges with clarity and purpose.

Cultural Alignment: Inspiration and Renewal
Delta’s culture thrives on a shared commitment to progress and renewal. For Kevin, the values of customer-centricity and continuous improvement are deeply woven into the team’s fabric.
Q: How do you incorporate values of renewal and forward motion into your team’s culture?
We start by deeply understanding customer pain points and designing solutions that not only solve problems but enhance lives and businesses. Celebrating our customers’ successes motivates us to innovate and continuously improve. This customer-centric approach fosters a culture of progress, learning, and purpose within the team.

Q: What traditions or celebrations inspire your approach to leadership and teamwork?
For me, it’s about celebrating achievements, encouraging open communication, and valuing diverse perspectives. These practices spark innovation, strengthen teamwork, and align everyone with a shared sense of purpose.

Legacy and Impact
Building momentum is not just about immediate wins, it’s about leaving a lasting impact. Kevin’s vision for the team reflects a commitment to sustainable progress and transformative solutions.

Q: If you had to describe your vision for 2025 in one word or phrase, what would it be?
"Empowered Growth" — this embodies driving innovation, building strategic partnerships, and nurturing a resilient team to achieve impactful progress.
Q: What lasting impact do you hope your team’s work will have at Delta?
I envision Delta becoming a leader in decarbonizing energy infrastructure. By fostering a solution-oriented mindset, we aim to develop scalable offerings that address complex energy challenges. Through innovation and strategic partnerships, we’re paving the way for a low-carbon future, creating lasting value for both customers and communities.

Personal Insights
Momentum also stems from personal resilience and clarity. Kevin shares how his values and practices anchor him amidst the challenges of leadership and growth.

Q: What personal practices or hobbies help you stay energized and motivated in your role?
Prioritizing faith, family, work, and community service keeps me grounded and focused. These pillars provide balance and purpose, driving me to lead with clarity and dedication.Q: Can you share a life lesson or value that influences the way you lead and work with your team?
I believe in prioritizing others’ growth and success. By listening actively and equipping team members with the tools they need to excel, I create an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered. This approach fosters collaboration and collective achievement.

Q: Who or what inspires you the most, and how does that inspiration shape your vision for the future?
My Christian faith is my greatest source of inspiration. Its teachings on service, compassion, and stewardship guide my leadership, encouraging me to prioritize integrity and focus on creating solutions that benefit communities and promote sustainability.
Q: If you could share one piece of advice with someone starting their career, what would it be?
Embrace continuous learning and relationship-building. Approach challenges as opportunities, remain open to new experiences, and always prioritize integrity and collaboration. These principles will anchor your career and help you navigate it with resilience and purpose.

Kevin Tom’s journey in leading Delta’s SEA Energy Infrastructure Platform reflects his commitment to innovation, resilience, and growth. His focus on empowering teams, building strategic partnerships, and creating solutions that address critical energy needs showcases the momentum driving Delta into 2025. With such inspiring leadership, Delta is well-positioned to achieve impactful progress and make a lasting difference in Southeast Asia and beyond

About the Author (Kevin Tom )

Kevin Tom

Share