SNEF names Poon Hong Yuen as next CEO

The Singapore National Employers Federation (SNEF) has appointed Poon Hong Yuen as its upcoming chief executive, succeeding Hao Shuo following a two-year tenure. Poon is set to assume the role of chief executive-designate on November 1 and officially become CEO on December 1, according to SNEF's announcement on October 16. Currently serving as deputy secretary at the Ministry of Digital Development and Information, Poon has previously held positions as deputy secretary for workforce at MOM and as CEO of the previous Spring Singapore.

SNEF President Kuah Boon Wee highlighted Poon's expertise, noting that his experience in workforce policy, enterprise development, and the digital economy will be crucial for guiding the federation through technological and economic changes. He emphasized that Poon's contributions to labor market policies, employer-employee relations, and the promotion of emerging technologies for workforce transformation will be invaluable.

Hao Shuo, who joined SNEF as chief executive in December 2024, will depart to assume a new role in the public service, with SNEF not disclosing its details. Prior to his appointment at SNEF, Hao served as divisional director for manpower planning and policy at MOM, focusing on workforce planning, labor market policies, foreign workforce regulations, and HR sector development.

During his leadership, SNEF's membership grew to over 4,000 corporate members, employing approximately 900,000 workers. Over 700 employers participated in SNEF's workplace and workforce transformation programs in the past two years, benefiting more than 3,200 employees. Kuah also mentioned that Hao collaborated with MOM and the National Trades Union Congress on policy reviews, including the Employment Act review and tripartite efforts addressing senior employment.