For Harry Susilo P’96, G’24 ’26, business is synonymous with family. An entrepreneur for over 50 years, his career began as a fish vendor when his father became ill. He then founded Sekar Group of Companies in Indonesia in 1966. More than 50 years later, the company is still a global family business with more than 20,000 employees and a leader in Indonesia’s food production and frozen food industry.
Family is also key when it comes to Babson’s relationship. Susilo will join her family’s Babson legacy by receiving an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters degree at the university’s undergraduate graduation ceremony. His daughter Fina Huang graduated from Babson College in 1996, and two of Fina’s children are currently students. Nolan Andrew Setiawan, 26, and Owen Matthew Setiawan, 24, are scheduled to graduate on May 11. Additionally, Babson’s Academy of Excellence in Entrepreneurship inducted Susilo in his 2017 year.
“For me and my family, receiving an honorary degree means that our work and efforts are recognized,” Susilo says. “Especially as one of my grandsons is about to graduate, this is an important milestone in his life. Over the years, I have shared my business principles with my family and the importance of integrity, respect and responsibility. I believe that my family will uphold these values in my future career.”
The family element in the business is a defining part of his legacy. Susilo is known worldwide for its commitment to ethical business practices, including prioritizing charity, innovation and integrity. He shares his perspective and wisdom passed down through generations.
Entrepreneur for decades
As Sekar Group has grown over half a century, Susilo has seen the entrepreneurial spirit evolve with it. These changes include rapid technological advances and globalization, along with changes in consumer behavior and preferences. According to Susilo, such changes can create new opportunities and challenges for entrepreneurs.
“Digitalization and the spread of the Internet have given entrepreneurs a wider market and more channels to promote and sell their products and services,” Susilo says. “Globalization has also increased competition, allowing competitors from all over the world to enter the same market. Entrepreneurs must continually innovate and adapt to stand out in a competitive market. ”
Susilo emphasizes that the key to sustained success is the ability to adapt while staying true to the business philosophy and goals. “The importance of staying true to your initial aspirations is just as important as remembering your source of water,” he says.
“Entrepreneurial leadership involves not only individual decision-making but also primarily team building and motivation. Entrepreneurs stimulate the potential of their team members and encourage them to work together toward a common goal. Have to.” Harry Susilo P’96, G’24 ’26
Entrepreneurial leaders like Susilo are uniquely equipped to grow their businesses beyond money because they see problems as opportunities rather than setbacks and adopt a people-first mindset. Susilo believes that honesty, transparency, and accountability are essential for entrepreneurs of all experience levels. These three fundamental principles of his will help you build a strong reputation and trust in the market while promoting a virtuous cycle of success.
“[These factors]all help foster a culture of integrity and trust within the broader professional community,” he says. “Companies should not only pursue profits, but also actively contribute to society.”
Practicing entrepreneurial leadership
A key element of entrepreneurial leadership is the ability to adapt to changes both within and outside of one’s control. “Only by adhering to core values while responding flexibly to external changes can companies survive the fiercely competitive market, maintain competitiveness, and achieve long-term success and sustainable development.” ,” Sushiro added.
This long-term success is achieved through honest and responsible business practices and provides benefits that go beyond just the bottom line. For Susilo, it ultimately comes back to the idea of teamwork and respecting the company’s history. He emphasizes that kindness and virtue cannot be overemphasized.
“Entrepreneurial leadership involves not only individual decision-making but also primarily team building and motivation. Entrepreneurs stimulate the potential of their team members and encourage them to work together toward a common goal. you have to,” he says. “To join our group, you must first understand our history, because history is the soul and compass of our company.”
Embracing a culture of kindness not only enhances a company’s reputation, but also fosters long-term trust and loyalty among consumers and stakeholders. This requires leaders to have strong communication skills, effective decision-making skills, and understanding and support of team members. Ultimately, as Susilo’s legacy shows, it’s important for entrepreneurial leaders of all types to pivot with confidence and integrity as they address industry change and the demands of generations to come. is essential.
Posted in the community
More from the community »
