Work with Fong Fe
As a project manager at BIOTRONIK, Fong has been overseeing international transfer projects since 2022. In this interview, she offers insights into her varied daily work routine and explains what she finds particularly appealing about working in project management.
Project Management in Singapore: Transfer Projects at BIOTRONIK
How long have you been with BIOTRONIK, and what is your role?
I've been with BIOTRONIK since July 2022 and work as a project manager. Over the past three years, I have overseen various transfer projects, assessed their feasibility, and supported their implementation. I am currently leading three ongoing transfer projects and providing operational support until they are successfully implemented.
How did you first learn about BIOTRONIK?
I first learned about BIOTRONIK through a recruiter on LinkedIn. Right from our first contact, I was drawn to the company's mission and the direct impact it has on patients' lives.
With BIOTRONIK since
July 2022
Title
Senior Manager
Location
Singapore
What convinced you to join BIOTRONIK?
I really wanted to work for a medical technology company that specializes in heart disease. At the same time, BIOTRONIK was in the process of expanding its operations in Singapore. The transfer projects gave me the opportunity to gain experience precisely in the areas where I wanted to develop further. I was also looking for the next step toward a career in project management. BIOTRONIK gave me the perfect opportunity to do just that.
What does a typical workday look like for you?
In short: No two days are alike. We work in a lean team, so things can get a little chaotic at times—with project issues that need to be resolved, schedules that need to be adjusted, and updates that need to be prepared. But that's exactly what makes the work so exciting. Every challenge is an opportunity to learn, grow, and improve.
What makes your work at BIOTRONIK special to you?
My work at BIOTRONIK means a great deal to me. A close family member of mine has a heart condition. Seeing how medical devices can improve patients' quality of life really moved me. This experience reminds me every day why our work is so important, and it motivates me to do my part to support BIOTRONIK's mission.
What advice would you give to applicants at BIOTRONIK?
No matter where you are in your career: Openness and curiosity are crucial. Take on challenges, learn from every experience, and value teamwork. If you support your colleagues and work well with them, you can make a real difference at BIOTRONIK and grow both personally and professionally.
What surprises new colleagues most about your job?
Many are surprised by how much “crystal ball gazing” my job requires. Whether it’s business cases or transfer projects—it often comes down to making bold assessments and using experience and business acumen to anticipate potential developments. This keeps my day-to-day work exciting and sharpens my problem-solving skills.
What opportunities for professional development have you experienced here?
Leading transfer projects and working closely with various departments have significantly strengthened my project management and problem-solving skills. Presenting to management has also helped me communicate more clearly and respond more quickly. I was especially pleased to be accepted into the Emerging Visionary Leaders Program (eVLP). Even though the program is still ongoing, I’ve already gained a great deal from it.
What has been your most memorable moment at BIOTRONIK so far?
Not every moment on the job is easy. Relatively early on, I experienced a very challenging situation with a team member that weighed heavily on me. That phase was difficult, but it taught me an important lesson: Emotions alone don't solve problems. I have learned to address conflicts constructively, tackle challenges head-on, and focus on solutions. This experience has made me more resilient and helped me grow both professionally and personally.
What do you particularly appreciate about your team?
I work in a very independent, results-oriented team. What I especially appreciate is that we support one another, share knowledge, step in to help each other out, and celebrate our successes together. This team spirit not only makes our work more effective, but also really enjoyable. Go team!
Is there anything that really excites you, either at work or in your personal life?
In my free time, I’m passionate about playing badminton. Sports promote strategic thinking, speed, and endurance—and bring out my competitive side. I also bring this attitude with me into my day-to-day work: Tackling challenges with focus and ambition motivates me every single day.