We spoke to Rommel Sy who is celebrating an incredible 11 years with BCI Central

 

“Thank you for my 11 years: for more than a decade of learnings, laughter and achievements!” 

 

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself? 

My name is Rommel Sy, I come from a Filipino-Chinese family, and I am married with two kids. I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Arts from St John Lateran’s College in Manila, Philippines. Some facts about me: I know martial arts; can speak (almost!) three languages; love drinking coffee; and am a big fan of Bruce Lee, Jet Li and Donnie Yen action movies.   

 

What is your role at BCI? 

I work for the ANZ Research Department in Makati, Philippines, as a Senior Research Consultant. My role is to track and report construction projects. 

 

What do you enjoy most about your position? 

What do I enjoy most? Hmm, I don’t think I can just talk about what I enjoy in my role; I have to mention what I enjoy most about this company as well! 

I enjoy being able to work independently, to be able to plan and prioritise my work for myself with my own strategy and style. Of course, being focused and ensuring quality work is done makes everything run smoothly. Prior to working at BCI, I preferred to ‘roll solo’; now I enjoy the team work and being a team player. The office culture, my colleagues (and don’t forget the coffee!) also make my work enjoyable.     

 

What achievements are you most proud of? 

In my 11 years at BCI, I have received 33 individual awards (please pardon my bragging!). Some of the most special to me include the Super Commitment Award (2011), the Most Outstanding Member Award (2015), and the Carlo Martinez Division Award for being the Most Helpful (2018).  

These achievements can’t exist without challenges. And, of course, there have been times where I have faced challenges; it comes down to that ‘fight or flight’ response—I chose, and continue to choose, to never give up.  

  

Can you share with us a favourite memory from your time at BCI? 

One memory that I often recall is the team building day we had as part of BCI’s 20th anniversary celebration back in 2018. I remember many moments of laughing out loud and seeing my colleagues filled with joy. 

I’ll call it a memorable moment, but the pandemic that forced us to work from home is something else I think of. It’s not just a part of my journey, but part of the entire company’s history. Because of BCI, I was able to continue to look after my family; for that, I’m very thankful.  

I’m also grateful for the people that I have met through BCI. It’s heart-warming to know that they are a part of my life outside of the office environment as well.  

 

Is there anyone that has particularly influenced your journey here at BCI? 

I have the utmost appreciation for BCI Central. A special thanks to especially all of the Philippine Managers for their support. I’d like to give a shout-out to our current NZ Portfolio Manager, Ashleigh Pattison, and to VIC/WA Manager Mary Quayle. Also, thanks to Carlito Ponting for your outstanding management regarding IT matters. I would like to thank Carlo Martinez, Prue Taylor and Alison Angel; although they have resigned, I hope this message can still reach them! 

Well done to BCI! In my eyes, our company is an inspiration to other businesses around the world, particularly when it comes to managing the unexpected and creating a compassionate, considerate company culture.   

Thank you for my 11 years: for more than a decade of learnings, laughter and achievements!