Meet the ‘Pocket Rocket’ Entrepreneur

Jaelle Ang, the formidable CEO of The Great Room, may look petite, but her impact on the corporate landscape is anything but. Dressed stylishly and exuding warmth, she defies the archetype of a power-hungry entrepreneur, making for a refreshing encounter as we meet at The Great Room's breathtaking Centennial Tower in Singapore.

From Local Visionary to Global Leader

Best known for transforming the concept of co-working spaces, Ang led The Great Room to achieve global recognition with 13 locations across Asia Pacific, including Singapore, Hong Kong, and Sydney. Her efforts culminated in a full acquisition by real estate giant CBRE Group earlier this year.

Revolutionizing Co-Working Spaces

When Ang launched The Great Room in Singapore's Central Business District, she redefined what a co-working space could be. Gone were the days of bland, uninspiring environments; instead, Ang introduced luxurious designs, comfort, and functionality, creating spaces that foster productivity and community. With interiors crafted by renowned hospitality designers, she ensured that each location was not just practical but also a pleasure to be in.

A Journey Steeped in Expertise

Ang’s journey didn’t begin with The Great Room. After refining her strategic acumen in banking and real estate, including spearheading a billion-dollar waterfront development in Bangkok, she launched her first business at just 21—an art school for children. Her relentless spirit combined with a love for design harnessed her vision to elevate workspaces to new heights.

Leaving at the Peak

As Ang prepares to exit The Great Room, she emphasizes the importance of timing. "I want to leave when the company is at its peak," she reflects, explaining her desire to step aside when the organization is poised for expansive growth. Her successor, COO Su Anne Mi, is set to follow in her transformative footsteps.

Valuable Lessons from the Entrepreneurial Journey

Looking back, Ang highlights key lessons learned throughout her journey. Reputation is paramount, as trust must be built with every stakeholder involved in the business. Focus, she argues, is more effective than multitasking: "Do one thing, but take it seriously. Simplicity is underrated; excel at what you do best and make it known."

Team Building and Leadership