Making new friends and rekindling old bonds

CLA Global TS, a public accounting and audit firm, is one of the participating teams in this year’s The Business Times Corporate Golf League presented by Singapore Pools.

Group chief executive officer and chief innovation officer Henry Tan said the company – formerly known as Nexia TS – is enjoying its debut at the annual event, as it gives his employees the opportunity to connect with new and existing clients and associates.

“We also hope to support Singapore’s efforts to be Covid-resilient through the return of larger-scale in-person events. (This will) give the business community the confidence to revive business events and (in turn) boost the economy,” he said.

The BT Corporate Golf League has completed three of its four legs so far, with the final round set to be played at Laguna National Golf Resort Club on April 14.

The team from CLA Global TS comprises social players in the competitive category of the event, and they currently lie fifth in the standings.

The 58-year-old Tan, who first picked up golf more than 30 years ago, shares more about why the company is so passionate about sports and giving back to the community, and what he hopes from participating in the BT Corporate Golf League.

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Why did CLA Global TS decide to support the BT Corporate Golf League?

We were invited to participate by a business friend. The main reason we did so is to connect with our existing and new clients and associates, outside of the usual business activities.

We also want to build relationships with new people and make new friends. Staying up-to-date on the latest news in the business community can result in healthy collaboration, new partnerships, and long-term value-based events.

What’s been the biggest takeaway from your participation so far?

When we connect at each leg of the event, which typically lasts more than half-a-day, it gives us ample time to know one other well.

Such events also allow business owners to take some time off from day-to-day business operations to connect with people meaningfully. With the interactions so far, I have already made many new friends and rekindled old friendships.

As the only accounting and business advisory firm among the six competitive teams, we hope to excel and make new friends with the 15 other teams.

We recently rebranded as CLA Global TS following our strategic move to join CLA Global Limited as an independent network member. Through our participation in the BT Corporate Golf League, we hope to strengthen our new brand name in the business community.

What do you enjoy most about playing golf?

Golf is good exercise as it involves being outdoors and there is plenty of walking. Golf is also an important sport in character building, as it can be frustrating at times when the game is not going well. When played in teams, it is also a great way to build trust between people. It’s also a test of integrity, which is key for us as a professional firm.

Being there for your teammates, cheering for them when the game is not going well and celebrating wins with them – all these helps to build and strengthen relationships.

Golf courses are also huge when it comes to sustainability. Many practice eco-friendly actions like not using plastics and disposables, ensuring there are maintenance of trees and greens, recycling water, using energy-saving lights, having solar panels for electricity, using electric buggies, and so on.

When did you start playing?

I picked up golf while working in Melbourne as an auditor while doing my chartered accountancy 34 years ago. However, as I started my firm a few years after my return, golf took a backseat as I tried to grow the business and had to go on many overseas work trips. My current handicap is 19.7.

On weekdays, I play with clients, associates and friends. During the weekends, I’m on the course with my wife, who recently picked up the sport.

Who is your favourite golfer?

Nick Faldo, as he had great dedication to the game.

How big is CLA Global TS’ involvement in sports or other activities?

We have been supporting various charity golf events organised by non-profit, commercial associations and external partners. Additionally, CLA Global TS has been the main partner for Singapore’s women floorball team since 2017.

This article is brought to you by CLA Global TS