CEO of the Year Awards 2026 Vocational Training CEO of the Year 2026 (Australia): Marcus Sellen & Online Education Excellence Award 2026 Education is the pathway to opportunity. A quality education will not only set up an individual with the tools and knowledge needed to shape their life, but also the lives of those around them. This is an ethos championed wholeheartedly by Hader Institute of Education, a leading online education and training partner to learners looking to pursue a career in counselling for mental health and substance abuse challenges. We sat down with CEO Marcus Sellen to learn more, as his hard work is recognised in the APAC CEO of the Year Awards 2026.
CEO of the Year Awards 2026 APAC Insider is proud to announce the launch of the APAC CEO of the Year Awards 2026, celebrating the visionary leaders driving growth, innovation, and transformation across one of the world’s most dynamic regions. From pioneering entrepreneurs to executives leading multinational enterprises, this programme recognises the individuals shaping the future of business across Asia-Pacific’s diverse economies – from finance and technology to manufacturing, sustainability, and beyond. Championing Leadership Across Asia-Pacific The Asia-Pacific region continues to be a powerhouse of global growth, defined by rapid digitalisation, strategic transformation, and an evolving leadership landscape. In 2026, CEOs face the dual challenge of seizing new opportunities in AI, green innovation, and emerging markets while navigating uncertainty and disruption. The APAC CEO of the Year Awards 2026 honour those at the forefront – visionary leaders whose decisions and foresight are not only steering their organisations to success but helping shape the region’s economic future. Sofi Parry, Senior Editor Website: https://apacinsider.digital/ AI Global Media, Ltd. (AI) takes reasonable measures to ensure the quality of the information on this web site. However, AI will not assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, correctness or completeness of any information that is available through this web site. If errors are brought to our attention, we will try to correct them. The information available through the website and our partner publications is for your general information and use and is not intended to address any particular finance or investment requirements. In particular, the information does not constitute any form of advice or recommendation by us or any of our partner publications and is not intended to be relied upon by users in making or refraining from making any investment or financial decisions. Appropriate independent advice should be obtained before making any such decision. Any arrangement made between you and any third party named in the site is at your sole risk and responsibility.
4. Hader Institute of Education: Vocational Training CEO of the Year 2026 (Australia): Marcus Sellen & Online Education Excellence Award 2026 6. Institute of Banking and Finance Cambodia: Banking Education CEO of the Year 2026: Visal Sou 8. Nirvana Life: Wellness Ecosystem CEO of the Year 2026: Toby Sutton & Multi-Stream Hospitality Growth Excellence Award 2026 9. Integrated Systems Technologies Philippines OPC: Most Innovative AV Systems CEO 2026 (Philippines): Hyung Jun Lim 10. The Beekeeper Group: Behavioural Health CEO of the Year 2026 (Thailand): Robert Common 11. Research Institute for Sustainable Excellence and Leadership: ESG Thought Leader of the Year 2026 (Malaysia): Hong Wai Onn 12. Serenity Mode: Complex Disability Support CEO of the Year 2026 (Victoria): Seshan Ramaswamy 13. Reventon: Financial Services CEO of the Year 2026 (Victoria): Chris Christofi 14. Unisphere Solutions: Digital Strategy & Security CEO of the Year 2026 (New Zealand): James Dickinson 15. Iqbal Group of Companies: Integrated Poultry & Agri Commodities CEO of the Year 2026 (Pakistan): Mohsin Khawaja & Agri Export Excellence Award 2026 Contents
Vocational Training CEO of the Year 2026 (Australia): Marcus Sellen & Online Education Excellence Award 2026 Education is the pathway to opportunity. A quality education will not only set up an individual with the tools and knowledge needed to shape their life, but also the lives of those around them. This is an ethos championed wholeheartedly by Hader Institute of Education, a leading online education and training partner to learners looking to pursue a career in counselling for mental health and substance abuse challenges. We sat down with CEO Marcus Sellen to learn more, as his hard work is recognised in the APAC CEO of the Year Awards 2026. Mental health and substance abuse disorders do not only impact the individual, but also their wider community. At present, the world is overwhelmed by uncertainty, doubt, and instability. But in this darkness, many bright minds have seen the opportunity to find light, rising to meet these challenges head-on and equipping those around them with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive. This is precisely why Hader Institute of Education was born: to provide learning, community, and support that empowers people to help one another on their paths to discovery and transformation. At its core, Hader Institute of Education believes in building a future where everyone feels included, connected, and valued. Through its people, learners, industry, and wider community, the organisation strives to help people take control of their lives, opening the door to self-belief. “Our mission is to make education the pathway to opportunity, supporting good mental health and wellbeing through our people, learners, industry partners, and community.” To achieve this mission, Hader Institute of Education offers a wide range of courses spanning mental health, youth work, alcohol and other drugs, criminology and forensic investigation, community services, and dual qualifications in these areas. Flexible and self-paced, each course is offered online and can be accessed via computer by learners anywhere in Australia. Through high-quality, nationally recognised training, the education provider empowers learners to build meaningful careers in helping professions. Hader Institute of Education’s most distinctive offering is its comprehensive Job-Ready Program, which goes beyond the traditional end-result of qualification to provide tangible employment results. This program also includes guaranteed work placements via partners such as SkilTrak, resume optimisation, purposeful job searching, networking guidance, and career coaching, bridging the gap between learning and employment to ensure that graduates are prepared to enter the workforce with complete confidence. Across its courses, the organisation maintains an unwavering focus on the wellbeing of its learners. “Our strategy centres on flexible online delivery, industry-aligned curricula, and exceptional student support to achieve high completion rates and employment outcomes,” Marcus told us. “We have perfected a number of techniques to ensure this, including streamlined enrolment and onboarding, robust digital platforms for self-paced learning, proactive trainer engagement, and the integrated Job-Ready Program to maximise graduate success.” As CEO of Hader Institute of Education, Marcus Sellen stands at the very helm of this remarkable work. An expert in the Australian Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector, Marcus’ career has spanned scaling educational organisations, operational excellence, compliance, and strategic growth. He has been responsible for founding and operating Selmar Institute of Education, his own Registered Training Organisation, drawing from his name and passion for quality training. Following the successful acquisition of Selmar Institute of Education by Catalyst Education,
CEO of the Year Awards 2026 | 5 Marcus took on the roles of Non-Executive Director and Interim CEO. He led his team through the acquisition of three RTOs, growing the company to deliver training to more than 6,500 learners in community services across Australia with 200 full-time employees. In these roles, his expertise comprised strategic planning, organisational change, monitoring performance, achieving KPIs, and focusing on the financial drivers and performance of RTOs under his leadership. Marcus’ experience in the VET sector has taught him a number of invaluable transferrable skills, which include entrepreneurial vision, operational scaling, and a focus on quality assurance, now applied in his current role to drive expansion across the board. Today, Marcus is equipped with a wealth of knowledge and insights that he now leverages to position Hader Institute of Education as a leading force in the realm of accessible, affordable online education. Under Marcus’ strong leadership, Hader Institute of Education has seen unprecedented growth in the areas of learner applications, engagement, and the number of courses it offers. The CEO’s firsthand experience has equipped him with a nuanced understanding of the challenges faced by Registered Training Organisations at all levels of operation, and his role in the formation of Selmar Institute of Education has provided a comprehensive knowledge of governance, executive leadership, and the industry. Furthermore, this unwavering commitment to quality and support is reflected in its learners’ feedback. Hader Institute of Education has earned over 1,000 five-star reviews across Google and Trustpilot combined, with ratings consistently at 4.8-4.9 out of 5. This positions it as one of the highest-rated Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) in Australia. Its learners continue to praise the flexible, empathetic, and highly effective learning experience that empowers them to succeed. As a leader, Marcus strives to be collaborative, visionary, and supportive, empowering his teams whilst setting clear direction. His team achieved goals through aligned KPIs, regular check-ins, shared vision workshops, and celebrating milestones. Trust and motivation are embedded in every interaction, with Marcus fostering open communication, recognising contributions, and leading by example in placing an unwavering focus on the learner experience. “We treat learners – our primary ‘clients’ – as partners on their career journey,” he said, “starting with empathetic needs assessment and personalised support. I ensure the team mirrors this through clear values alignment, regular training, feedback loops, and a culture of student-first service. Our trainers and support staff are experienced practitioners who model professionalism, responsiveness, and encouragement.” Continuous refinement and agile adaption lie at the heart of the organisation’s studentcentrism. Under Marcus’ leadership, Hader Institute of Education actively stays ahead of industry developments by monitoring ASQA and NCVER data, industry consultations, and student feedback, whilst also investing in technology to ensure engaging, accessible education. It is this calibre of commitment to the student experience that has earned Marcus and his team the Online Education Excellence Award 2026. Currently, the team has observed several trends shaping the VET and community services sectors, including a rising demand for mental health and youth support; flexible online learning following the pandemic; workforce shortages within care sectors; and a growing interest in criminology, forensics, and complex social issues. These trends are impacting the ways in which learners interact and engage with their education, as well as the fields in which they are seeking to enter. Hader Institute of Education has made significant efforts to meet these demands head-on, introducing a range of new courses and opportunities for its students. This has included expanding the Job-Ready Program to enhance placement guarantees, as well as launching responsive programs on criminal psychology and forensic investigation to meet the growing demand in justice and forensic fields. Through continuous improvement and development, Marcus aspires to establish Hader Institute of Education as the go-to provider of online, self-paced, career-ready training in human services and the emerging field of criminology. 2025 taught Marcus the importance of adaptability, the power of learner-centred innovation, and the value of establishing strong support networks. Now, he looks to the future with renewed ambition. This year, the CEO will work towards this mission by consolidating new criminology courses and enhancing the features of the Job-Ready Program, whilst also growing the institute’s enrolments and deepening industry partnerships. In the longer term, Marcus’ five-year vision will entail leading Hader Institute of Education – or a larger entity – as a transformative force in Australia’s VET sector, with the ultimate aim of influencing policy and broader educational access. Since first entering the VET field, Marcus Sellen has demonstrated a steadfast dedication to ensuring that learners are provided with accessible and affordable education that does not compromise on quality. The CEO has played a pivotal role in establishing Hader Institute of Education as a leader in its field, instrumentally shaping the VET sector for the better. The tireless efforts of Marcus and the entire team at Hader Institute of Education have empowered countless learners to step forward and empower others, creating a thriving community of people who truly want to make a difference. For his steadfast commitment to this cause, demonstrated through more than two decades of dedication to the sector, Marcus Sellen has been rightfully named Australia’s Vocational Training CEO of the Year 2026. We at APAC Insider would like to congratulate Marcus on his significant success and cannot wait to see what is next for this VET visionary. Company: Hader Institute of Education Web Address: www.haderinstitute.edu.au
Incorporated back in 2017, the Institute of Banking and Finance (IBF) is an initiative established and owned by the Association of Banks in Cambodia (ABC). It was developed as a way of elevating the capacity of Cambodia’s banking industry to the level of the region, and it has been a resounding success ever since it opened its doors. Over the last four years or so, its success can be attributed to Visal Sou, who entered the business as a general manager in 2022 and today occupies the position of its CEO. For more on this career and leadership, we caught up with Visal himself. Providing a combination of skill training, accreditation, local certification, and international-standard qualifications at an affordable price, IBF serves the ABC members who comprise Cambodia’s commercial banks, specialised banks, and microfinance institutions alike. Bolstering the comprehensive banking education the company provides are the partnerships it has fostered with a number of accredited institutions worldwide, such as the International Compliance Association, the Chartered Banking Institute, and the HRCI. More recently, it has even partnered with some of the most prestigious universities in the region, including Paragon International University, the National University of Management, and Panhasastra University of Cambodia. The purpose of these partnerships is to integrate the financial qualifications IBF provides seamlessly into the curriculums of these institutions, giving students who are studying finance, banking, or other relevant courses hands-on knowledge and insights relating to the industry, thus boosting their employability. This is the foundation of a company dedicated to building the future of sustainable finance in Cambodia, a vision it is striving to achieve by improving corporate governance, elevating local practices to the level of international best practices, standardising banking in the region, and educating the public. Having already provided its services to more than 50,000 programme graduates across the country, the company is well on the way to realising its vision. What’s more, it is only just beginning, with further initiatives planned. “We want to see IBF become the leading platform for marketresponsive talent development.” As the man at the helm of IBF, Visal Sou is the person responsible for managing these initiatives, as well as setting both the tone and the direction of the company. This CEO – who is also Chair of the Asian Pacific Association of Banking Institutes (APABI) – described his role as being to build a resilient ‘talent architecture’ for the financial sector, bridging the gap between Cambodia’s current banking capabilities in the space and the future needs of a sector that must become digital-first and resilient if it is to face these challenging realities. On the back of this, the approach Visal takes to the work that he and his team do across this operation can be summed up in a philosophy taught to this CEO by a mentor some decades ago. The advice he received went something like this: You feel good when you do good, but you feel better when you empower someone else to do good. For Visal, this translates into a unique leadership style that is all about enabling others. Visal referred to this as a ‘Servant-Strategist’ approach, and it is fundamental to the way he manages his team. Beyond this, Visal is passionate about ensuring the guiding values of discipline and consistency are cornerstones of IBF’s success, reflecting his personal and professional mission. At its core, this involves putting people first, which Visal has found creates a ‘ripple’ of professional competency which goes beyond IBF and helps stabilise the wider financial sector and support the national economy. Visal’s work with APABI is an extension of this, allowing him to both assess and measure Cambodia’s banking standards. With two high-profile roles in the banking industry to his name, it is vital for Visal to embody the qualities expected of a great leader. He does this by capitalising on three key pillars, which perfectly complement his leadership style detailed above. These are discipline, strategic action, and adaptability, and they all come from the previous positions he has occupied throughout his career. Many of these were roles outside of banking yet still rooted in education. This goes some way in understanding Visal’s commitment to growth. For the team here, the result is that members view themselves as more than just education service providers, instead standing as valueadded partners or ‘solution architects’ for the banking industry. Visal embodies this ethos fully, and a great example of it in action is the launch of the Accredited Director Program (ADP), created alongside the Singapore Institute of Directors (SID). This was revolutionary as it allowed members in Cambodia’s financial institutions to gain access to internationally benchmarked governance education. “Successfully establishing the ADP has seen us address a critical gap in Cambodia’s financial sector, equipping board members and CEOs with global ethical and strategic frameworks.” Remarkably, this is just one of the highlights from Visal’s approximately four years with IBF, with other notable achievements including overseeing the training of more than 40,000 banking professionals through the Responsible Lending Certification (a regulatory anchor promoting ethical lending across Cambodia) and the rapid expansion of IBF’s certification programmes to cover new areas such as risk management, compliance, and retail banking. Again, this is all alongside the pioneering academic integrations detailed above. Commenting on this success, Visal explained: “IBF has evolved into a platform for leadership, professionalism, and futurereadiness. My role has been to align all initiatives with that vision and to ensure IBF remains deeply connected to the real needs of the financial industry.” Given the Cambodian banking sector is currently facing some of its biggest challenges ever – marked by rising non-performing loans and declining profitability – having Visal on hand to help solve these issues is paving the way for a brighter future. Banking Education CEO of the Year 2026: Visal Sou
CEO of the Year Awards 2026 | 7 For now, all that is left is to champion Visal Sou as the Banking Education CEO of the Year 2026, a testament to the transformative work both he and the team he manages carry out on a daily basis at Cambodia’s world-renowned Institute of Banking and Finance. Contact Details Contact: Visal Sou Company: Institute of Banking and Finance Cambodia Web Address: https://www.ibf.com.kh/ Regarding this future, the next steps for IBF are all about continuing the strides it made last year, primarily concerning its approach to preparing itself and both the current and future generations for what lies ahead in this changing market. As for his own plans, Visal’s next five years or so are all about elevating IBF, refining the signature servant-leadership style he brings to the APAC financial sector to guide it through the uncertain times ahead and ultimately help usher in a new era for banking talent development in Cambodia. In closing, this award-winning CEO summarised: “Although the challenges we face are significant, they are also the catalysts for professionalising the industry across the country, which is moving past the era of ‘grow at any cost’ and is instead entering an era of sustainable maturity. At IBF, we are committed to ensuring the banking sector remains the engine of the economy, powered by a workforce that is ethical, disciplined, and globally competitive.” More on all of this can be found at the web address listed below.
CEO of the Year Awards 2026 | 8 The hospitality industry is undergoing a significant transformation that has been driven by the global rise of the wellness industry, with guests increasingly prioritising health, rest, longevity, and meaningful experiences when they travel. As a result, the sector is seeing a growing demand for destinations that integrate wellness into the core of their offering. Today we celebrate Toby Sutton, Founder and CEO of Sacred Hospitality Group, a company aiming to redefine modern luxury by restoring depth, meaning, and connection to the way guests live, stay, and gather. We heard more from Toby below, following his success in the APAC CEO of the Year Awards 2026. Whilst hospitality has always been grounded in taking care of people, the industry is currently entering a new phase that requires the focus to go much deeper. Today, people are seeking spaces that allow them to rest, recover, reflect, and reconnect with what truly matters. This is a demand being met head-on by one company converting underperforming assets into highdemand destinations blending luxury, wellness, and total rejuvenation. Since its inception in 2025, Sacred Hospitality Group has aspired to invest in, build, and operate transformative destinations that elevate the human experience and restore balance to modern living. The company combines architectural excellence, local authenticity, and operational mastery to create holistic ecosystems of wellbeing, from private residences and clubs to hotels and sanctuaries. Based in the heart of Canggu, Nirvana Life Bali is a sanctuary created by Sacred Hospitality Group that blends wellness, community, and luxury. Every element of the retreat is designed to help guests live with intention, from sunrise yoga and state-of-the-art fitness to nourishing cuisine and soulful connection. At Nirvana Life, guests are guided through every stage of their wellness journey by a curated programme tailored to their specific needs and a team of world-class trainers. “We aim to redefine modern luxury by restoring depth, meaning, and connection to the way people experience hospitality and place,” Toby told us. “Sacred Hospitality Group exists to create spaces that honour the human spirit, integrating wellness, beauty, and belonging into every touchpoint.” Founder and CEO of Sacred Hospitality Group, Toby Sutton has focused the last decade on building concepts that go beyond the realm of traditional hospitality models. Toby operates at the intersection of luxury hospitality, wellness innovation, and real estate development, creating environments designed around wellbeing, community, and meaningful human experience. Toby’s journey into hospitality has been one shaped by a combination of operational experience, entrepreneurial thinking, and a strong interest in how environments influence human wellbeing. Toby worked closely with hospitality and property development projects early in his career, equipping him with a deep understanding of how places are conceived, built, and operated. Over time, he became increasingly interested in how these environments could not only be designed for comfort, but also for wellbeing and transformation. As CEO of Sacred Hospitality Group, Toby leads with collaboration and vision. “I believe the role of a leader is to provide clarity of direction while empowering talented people to bring their expertise to the table,” he said. “Hospitality and development projects are inherently multidisciplinary, so creating an environment where different perspectives can contribute is essential. At the same time, I try to maintain a strong sense of purpose within the organisation. When everyone understands the vision behind what we are building, it becomes much easier to align efforts and make thoughtful decisions.” Over the next few years, Toby will be focused on expanding the Sacred Hospitality Group ecosystem, with plans to continue developing projects that reflect the next generation of wellness-driven destinations. The team sees significant potential for this model across various regions in which travellers and residents alike are seeking environments that support wellbeing, connection, and thoughtful living. On a personal level, Toby hopes to continue contributing to the evolution of hospitality by helping create more places that positively impact the people who experience them. “If we can build destinations that genuinely support human wellbeing while also delivering long-term value for partners and investors, then we are moving in the right direction,” he shared. The CEO continued: “Hospitality has always been about people and the connection that revolves around them. While the industry continues to evolve, I believe the most successful destinations will always be those that remain deeply human in their approach. Creating environments where people feel welcomed, restored, and inspired is ultimately what great hospitality is about.” Contact: Toby Sutton Company: Nirvana Life Web Address: www.nirvanalife.com Wellness Ecosystem CEO of the Year 2026: Toby Sutton & Multi-Stream Hospitality Growth Excellence Award 2026 Nirvana Life
CEO of the Year Awards 2026 | 9 Originally established as a music recording studio called Wild Grass Studios in 1998, this esteemed company has since evolved to stand as a leading provider of high-end audio-visual system integration and consulting services for major clients around the world. Today, we focus on Hyung Jun Lim, celebrated CEO of umbrella company Integrated Systems Technologies and deserving awardee in the APAC CEO of the Year Awards 2026. We spoke with Hyung Jun below for more information, following his recognition as the Philippines’ Most Innovative AV Systems CEO 2026. Based in the Philippines, Wild Grass Studios stands as the studio side of ISTP, which is renowned for its indepth knowledge in system integration solutions for audio, video, and lighting. The company is committed to delivering high-performance, technically-sound audio-visual solutions that are directly tailored to the specific needs of each client. ISTP serves clients of all budgets and sizes, working tirelessly to ensure system reliability, scalability, and longterm value across its projects, from design to implementation. “Our people-centric philosophy, particularly the role of education and talent development, is a core strategic pillar.” ISTP is headed by CEO Hyung Jun Lim, a dedicated individual with vast industry expertise. Hyung Jun first began his career as a recording studio engineer in Korea, where he developed a strong foundation in sound, acoustics, and system integration. As Hyung Jun moved into AV system integration, his role expanded into unifying audio, video, control, and network systems to maximise usability and efficiency. “Working as an AV System Designer at The Big Picture in Australia was a key turning point, exposing me to international standards, diverse project environments, and user-centred design principles,” he recalled “The transferrable skills gained across my career – including technical integration, communication, and people development – have allowed me to lead ISTP with a holistic vision that connects technology, standards, and talent development.” As CEO, Hyung Jun’s role spans system design, technical oversight, commissioning, and strategic direction, ensuring consistency from concept to execution. He combines deep technical expertise, real-world operational insight, and industry education to bridge the gap between design and actual system use. Under Hyung Jun’s leadership, ISTP strives to deliver technological integration aligned with international standards, while also developing professionals who will lead the future of the AV system integration industry. Furthermore, holding AVIXA certifications, such as CTS-D and CTS-I, Hyung Jun is currently the only individual in both Korea and the Philippines to hold both credentials. AVIXA plays a major role in setting global standards for the AV industry, and these certifications represent advanced levels of design and integration expertise. In 2019, Hyung Jun recognised a growing gap between industry advancement and structured education and founded the Institute of AV Technology to develop skilled AV professionals in response. The pioneering institute was the first of its kind in the Philippines, offering a full range of courses across all levels of creativity and education in audiovisual technology. With classes spanning introductory, intermediate, and advanced levels, the Institute specialises in AV system design and consultation, studio recording and media production, and AV technical training. “The Institute was established not simply as a training platform, but as a foundation to help practitioners navigate an increasingly complex and fast-moving industry,” added Hyung Jun. “Today, education and talent development sit alongside technology and projects as core pillars of our organisation.” Looking to the future, Hyung Jun aspires to establish an AV Technology Training Centre in the Philippines. 2026 will serve as a critical milestone for this mission, with the focus being placed on practical, fielddriven AV education that supports realworld system integration. In the longer term, Hyung Jun hopes that this centre will grow into an international AV education hub serving Asia and the Pacific, supported by collaboration with the Philippine government to develop the next generation of AV professionals. “This year is about turning vision into action,” the CEO concluded. “Last year tested ISTP’s capabilities, particularly through complex projects such as theme parks, where we confirmed our technical strengths and long-term potential. Looking ahead, I see my role increasingly focused on connecting technology, education, and industry, with the goal of building sustainable frameworks that support both people and the future of the AV profession.” Contact: Hyung Jun Lim Company: Integrated Systems Technologies Philippines OPC. Web Address: www.istpsolutions.com & www.avinstitute.net Most Innovative AV Systems CEO 2026 (Philippines): Hyung Jun Lim
CEO of the Year Awards 2026 | 10 The Beekeeper House is an integrative health and wellness treatment centre based in Thailand’s Chiang Mai province. It helps to treat addiction, mental health conditions, and behavioural issues, leveraging a compassionate approach and a blend of clinical psychology and Eastern philosophy to offer the best outcomes. It is also part of The Beekeeper Group, which is owned by CEO Robert Common, and on the back of his recognition as the Behavioural Health CEO of the Year 2026 (Thailand), we caught up with Robert for more on both his work and the services provided here. Behavioural Health CEO of the Year 2026 (Thailand): Robert Common A Doctor of Psychology with more than 20 years of experience in his field, Robert Common is the ideal man to sit at the head of The Beekeeper Group, the company responsible for Asia’s leading integrative health and wellness treatment centre. Comprising both The Beekeeper House location and the My Beekeeper app, with the latter being a dedicated aftercare platform developed in-house by and offered as a core part of this service – not as an optional addon – these provisions are the foundation of outstanding treatment. Key to the philosophy of The Beekeeper Group is its approach, which sees the whole person treated across their mind, body, and spirit, ensuring their recovery works long term and is a transformative experience from the very beginning. The aforementioned Beekeeper House reflects the mix of modern science and ancient philosophy the organisation stands for, with the amenities here including a dedicated yoga/meditation sala, a Pilates studio, and a recreation sala, complemented by botanical gardens and a swimming pool. These facilities are combined with the services of a team comprising skilled, compassionate professionals dedicated to providing worldclass treatment across mental health, substance abuse, addiction, and more. As mentioned above, at the helm of this team is Robert Common, a man whose journey to becoming CEO of this organisation was anything but simple. Having previously held roles with the likes of Save the Children US, Robert became the CEO of The Beekeeper Group back in 2019, bringing a wealth of experience with him. Detailing the diverse expertise he boasts, Robert told us: “I built my leadership skills in complex, high-stakes environments where decisions carried real human and financial consequences. These environments forced clarity, accountability, and resilience.” This was just the beginning, as alongside this, Robert has also constantly expanded his knowledge of the sector, studying at universities all over the world. This mix of a high-quality education and hands-on leadership served Robert well as he moved into the role of CEO. In this role, Robert’s approach is very much calm, direct, and driven by the values that The Beekeeper Group lives by. As for his responsibilities, Robert explained: “My role as CEO has been to turn a clinically excellent idea into a scalable, sustainable organisation. By integrating neuroscience-led care, outcome tracking, and a high-performance culture, we have improved patient results and delivered both social impact and commercial value at scale.” This is seen through its revenue having grown more than 50% year on year since 2019. Discussing the reasons behind this, Robert credited the combination of data-driven performance management, stronger financial controls, and a multidisciplinary care model where psychology, medicine, and holistic therapies converge as being the key drivers behind The Beekeeper Group’s success. A great example of this in action are its flagship, technologyenabled, trauma-informed treatment programmes, all of which integrate the likes of clinical psychology, psychiatry, addiction treatment, and holistic therapies. Clients from all over the world travel to Thailand to receive these therapies, which underpins the strength of the approach taken by Robert and the team here. Another example of this quality is seen through the five-star reviews it receives from those who have had attended treatments at The Beekeeper House, with many citing this as a life-changing, pathsetting experience, and a light which has guided them through their darkest days. With more than 700 such patients treated to date, this work is certainly worthy of celebration. “Our testimonials reflect our commitment to compassionate care, clinical excellence, and personalised support, and are representative of the consistency in outcomes our clients and their loved ones value most.” Robert Common has played an invaluable role in getting the lives of those struggling with addiction or mental health challenges back on track, and for the part he has played in developing The Beekeeper Group into something metamorphic, we are delighted to name him as the Behavioural Health CEO of the Year 2026 (Thailand). More on the work both he and the organisation do can be found below. Contact: Robert Common Company: The Beekeeper Group Web Address: https://mybeekeeper.org/
CEO of the Year Awards 2026| 11 Think tanks play a crucial role in bridging the gap between knowledge and national development, providing evidence-based research and expert analysis to influence policy decisions. The Research Institute for Sustainable Excellence and Leadership is one think tank actively shaping Malaysia’s infrastructure, a nonprofit organisation focused on sustainable development and ethical leadership throughout the country. We spoke with Founder and CEO Hong Wai Onn to learn more information, as his leadership is recognised in the APAC CEO of the Year Awards 2026. The Research Institute for Sustainable Excellence and Leadership (RISEL) was established in 2024, born from a shared vision of addressing the complex challenges currently facing Malaysia. Bringing together a diverse group of Malaysian professionals, RISEL has soon established itself as a leading voice in advancing sustainability, ESG integration, and the netzero transition. At the helm of this development is Hong Wai Onn, Founder and CEO of RISEL. Wai Onn leads applied research at RISEL and advises partners in government, industry, and civil society. Guiding national discussions on sustainability, climate action, and responsible growth, he translates complex technical, environmental, and economic problems into clear plans that can be utilised by decisionmakers. In a competitive market, Wai Onn stands out for uniquely combining deep engineering and industry experience with systems thinking. While many ESG experts hail from policy- or advocacy-exclusive backgrounds, Wai Onn has spent almost two decades within the palm oil, biotechnology, and industrial sectors. His past roles spanned production, engineering, project management, R&D, process safety, and leadership. “This background lets me speak the language of industry,” Wai Onn explained. “I still uphold the values of sustainability and integrity. I act as a translator between science, industry, and policy. Sustainability must not be a simple checklist for rules. It must create long-term value for Malaysia and the region.” “Sustainability must not be a simple checklist for rules. It must create long-term value for Malaysia and the region.” Under Wai Onn’s leadership, RISEL conducts strict, independent research and offers new policy recommendations that support sustainable development, ethical leadership, and social progress in Malaysia and beyond. The organisation focuses on thought leadership, practical application, and ecosystem building, ensuring that its solutions remain credible for academia, practical for business, and influential to shape policy. Each new client relationship or project begins with one rule: to listen first. “Sustainability problems are rarely generic,” Wai Onn explained. “We spend time at the start to learn the client’s contexts, limits, and long-term goals, before we offer plans. At RISEL, we avoid standard frameworks, instead focusing on custom, data-driven methods.” This approach is especially essential in today’s fast-paced world, with APAC’s ESG sector undergoing continuous development. Wai Onn joins international ESG standardsetting discussions to stay up to date, meeting regularly with regulators, investors, and corporate leaders to track changing expectations. He also dedicates time to learning, attending conferences, reviewing new research, and consulting the experts to ensure that RISEL’s solutions remain at the industry’s cutting edge. As he looks to the future, Wai Onn envisions RISEL becoming the APAC’s top centre for ESG ideas, a trusted advisor to companies, governments, and civil society groups on sustainability changes. The CEO learned the value of patience with progress and urgency with purpose through 2025, understanding that sustainable change takes time but must remain a top priority. This understanding has significantly shaped RISEL’s plans for the future. This year, RISEL will embark on a number of projects that will enable it to realise this vision. Throughout 2026, RISEL’s key missions will include a full research programme on fair transition paths for APAC’s manufacturing sectors; an executive education platform for sustainability leaders; discussions with stakeholders on climate finance and adaption in Southeast Asia; and introducing more advisory services that help groups put ESG into their main strategy. And that’s not all for RISEL’s future, as Wai Onn shared: “In five years, I see myself leading RISEL with a new focus. I want to spend more time on high-level ideas. I will write, speak, and shape regional and global sustainability discussions. At the same time, a strong team will manage daily work; I plan to serve on international boards that shape ESG standards, while also mentoring the next group of sustainability leaders. “Success means RISEL relies less on me. We will build company strength and a community that outlasts any single person’s work. Legacy is not about being needed. It is about making yourself unnecessary while the mission succeeds.” Contact: Hong Wai Onn Company: Research Institute for Sustainable Excellence and Leadership Web Address: www.risel.org ESG Thought Leader of the Year 2026 (Malaysia): Hong Wai Onn
CEO of the Year Awards 2026 | 12 Based in Victoria, Serenity Mode is a boutique care organisation dedicated to supporting individuals with multifaceted disabilities and complex psychosocial, behavioural, and medical backgrounds. The organisation has become a crucial ecosystem that transitions individuals away from institutional settings and reintegrates them into their communities, allowing them to thrive with safety and dignity. This exceptional work is led by Seshan Ramaswamy, CEO of Serenity Mode and a recent recipient in the APAC CEO of the Year Awards 2026. “Serenity Mode is not simply a disability provider; we are a health and care ecosystem built around dignity and human rights.” Since its inception, Serenity Mode has been on a mission to empower individuals to live their best independent lives. Occupying the niche, high-complexity tier of the disability and care industry, the organisation primarily caters to individuals with intricate support requirements, including complex medical and psychosocial histories, challenging behaviours, dual disabilities, and highsupport needs. These are people whose circumstances fall outside of mainstream capabilities, typically approaching Serenity Mode after exhausting all other avenues. The team strives to bridge this expanding gap that is currently impacting the sector, ultimately absorbing the pressures that would otherwise fall upon families, informal networks, and overstretched mainstream services. This powerful mission is led by CEO Seshan Ramaswamy, who distinguishes himself with an approach that lies at the intersection of clinical knowledge and strategic leadership. Seshan possesses a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the Australian Institute of Management, as well as formal qualifications in Work Health & Safety and HR. Furthermore, he is also a AHPRA registered physiotherapist, having graduated with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy from the University of Melbourne. This vast education has equipped Seshan with crucial frameworks that would later complement his versatile, frontline experience. Over the years, Seshan’s career path has spanned allied health, primary healthcare, entrepreneurship, community health, executive leadership, and agedcare operations with large organisations that include Australian Unity and Regis Aged Care. Each role has deepened capabilities he now relies on daily as CEO of Serenity Mode, including strategic planning, business development & branding, clinical reasoning, stakeholder engagement, workforce engagement, and risk mitigation. “I bring a healthcare background, MBA, board governance expertise, as well as deep operational experience across the aged care, disability, and broader community healthcare sectors,” he told us. “This multidisciplinary perspective allows me to bridge the gap between person-centred care and sustainable business performance, ensuring we at Serenity Mode deliver exceptional outcomes without sacrificing commercial viability.” At the helm of Serenity Mode, Seshan prides himself on being a transformative leader. As the CEO, he has set the strategic direction for growth, allowing Serenity Mode to evolve from a small, founder-led service into a structured entity, with multiple layers of leadership and corporate structure. As Serenity Mode has progressed under Seshan’s leadership, he has always ensured that Founder Sheetu Partola’s vision of “leaving a legacy of compassionate care that outlasts any individual” remains the heartbeat of everything built. At the heart of this legacy lies the hardworking people that drive the success of Serenity Mode. “Behind every metric and strategic milestone are real people,” said Seshan. “Participants, support staff, leadership teams, and industry colleagues, all support our impact and my work as the Chief Executive Officer. As the leader of this organisation, I firmly believe that the ‘human dimension’ should never be lost in the business narrative.” With a strong mission and an even stronger team, Serenity Mode is well positioned to continue reshaping Australia’s disability and care industry. Fiscal Year 2026 will serve as the foundational year of the organisation’s upcoming strategic direction, comprising three years of financial and governance strengthening through restructure, diversification of services, and expansion into new markets. By Fiscal Year 2028, Serenity Mode is poised to have achieved significant results. Seshan has set bold ambitions to more-than-triple Serenity Mode’s topline growth and broaden its impact on local communities, delivering allencompassing disability, aged care, private-care, and supportive bespoke technology, within the Serenity Health ecosystem. For this ambitious vision and dedication to shaping the future of care, Seshan Ramaswamy has been rightfully awarded the title of Victoria’s Complex Disability Support CEO of the Year 2026. Contact: Seshan Ramaswamy Company: Serenity Mode Web Address: www.serenitymode.com Complex Disability Support CEO of the Year 2026 (Victoria): Seshan Ramaswamy
CEO of the Year Awards 2026| 13 Based in Melbourne, Victoria, Reventon is an integrated property, finance and wealth advisory group founded by CEO Chris Christofi. With a clear focus on helping Australians create, build and protect wealth through strategic property investment, Chris has been recognised for his excellence in the APAC CEO of the Year Awards 2026. Chris Christofi first began his entrepreneurial journey at the young age of 10 years old, selling lottery tickets on the streets of Cyprus for his newsagent uncle. He was assigned a large consignment of tickets to sell each day and quickly developed a strong work ethic and a drive to consistently achieve his targets. This formative experience set Chris up with a lifelong ethos of hard work, determination, and the strength to achieve every goal he sets. This mindset has followed Chris throughout his adult life, seeing him working three additional jobs during college to pay his own way. At just 19, Chris had begun a successful career in the property industry, with his superlative sales skills quickly achieving significant financial success at a young age. He had already accumulated eight investment properties by this point and had formed a strategic business partnership within the property field in Queensland. Without warning, this business partnership collapsed. Chris was left responsible for a shortfall of $780,000 and significant financial obligations for his clients. He sold every one of his assets and moved back into his mother’s home to repay those debts, setting up his desk in a small home office. From there, Chris worked tirelessly to keep his commitment to every client, pay all his staff, and ensure that nobody else lost any money. It took Chris almost three years to do so, but his deeply embedded work ethos drove him forward to achieve his goal. Following this experience, Chris established Reventon in 2005. In forming the wealth creation and financial education company, the CEO aspired to help as many people as possible. He envisioned Reventon becoming the number one choice for Australians seeking to create, build, and protect their wealth through property investment, supporting families for now and generations to come. Rather than chasing rapid expansion, Chris instead focused on operational refinement. Reventon invested in systems, technology, and leadership capability before scaling. “When I founded Reventon in 2005, survival was the strategy,” he told us. “With $348,000 in debt, every decision required precision. That period taught me financial discipline, risk management, and the importance of longterm thinking over short-term wins.” As the business stabilised, the strategy shifted from survival to structure. Chris recognised early on that transactional services limit impact. Property, finance, and advice are often delivered in isolation, creating fragmentation for clients. He saw an opportunity to integrate these services into one cohesive ecosystem, providing clients with a single, coordinated team working towards a single objective: generational wealth creation. “I learnt early that leadership requires clarity under pressure.” Under Chris’ strategic leadership, Reventon has grown substantially year after year. The company has assisted more than 10,000 clients across Australia and facilitated more than $3.55 billion in property and finance transactions. Having built a stellar reputation for assisting clients with building wealth through better financial management and creating profitable property investment portfolios, Reventon generates the majority of its business through client referrals, reflecting strong client satisfaction and long-term relationships. In recent years, philanthropy has also been integrated into Reventon’s business model. Through initiatives such as Brick by Brick and the Vinnies CEO Sleepout, Chris has helped raise over $1.2 million to support Australians experiencing homelessness. This approach ensures social impact is embedded into the business, demonstrating that commercial success and compassion can coexist. As Reventon looks to the future, Chris’ focus is firmly placed upon continued national expansion, further technology integration, and launching specialised property solutions for underserved demographics, while also looking to scale the company’s Brick by Brick initiatives and philanthropic efforts. At the same time, the CEO looks to strengthen Reventon’s leadership bench depth, ensuring that the team can continue to support clients and their families for generations to come. “In five years, I see myself continuing to lead strategically, expanding our philanthropic reach, and contributing more broadly as a thought leader in property investment, leadership, and social impact,” Chris concluded. “Last year reinforced the importance of operational refinement over aggressive expansion. Sustainable growth outperforms rapid growth.” “Sustainable growth outperforms rapid growth.” Contact: [email protected] Company: Reventon Web Address: www.reventon.com.au Financial Services CEO of the Year 2026 (Victoria): Chris Christofi
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