I REFER to recent media reports on DBS' displeasure with one its staff, Ms Josie Lau, assuming leadership of the Association of Women for Action & Research.

I am surprised that the bank has taken the drastic move of publicly stating its disapproval of Ms Lau's actions.

DBS has managed its public image well over the years, but this particular news has blemished the bank's otherwise-good reputation.

Nonetheless, the saga does raise an important question as to whether people who hold many corporate and social positions are still able to perform at their best in each role.

As a matter of fact, many leaders in Singapore also hold multiple posts and directorships in various companies and organisations.

This leads me to ask:

• Why would they want to hold so many responsibilities?
• Do they have the time to carry out their assigned responsibilities? If not, are they underperforming in some of these positions as a result?
• Aren't the various companies being short-changed if their leaders do not have the time to provide the extra push needed to add value to their respective organisations?
• If the people who hold multiple roles are being remunerated, shouldn't the respective organisations review whether these leaders are giving their stakeholders value for money?
• Besides the private sector, some of our political leaders also hold many portfolios. Is there not enough talent in Government for all the available posts?

The public has seen many ill-advised corporate decisions in recent history. Therefore, it is only right that people who are entrusted with key responsibilities commit more time and thought to each job, in order to achieve better corporate performance.

It is almost inconceivable to expect people who hold multiple directorships and responsibilities to play their corporate roles well.

Mr Ng Teck Wee

For more my paper stories click here.