Gerard shares how he quickly became proficient in using data to find better business solutions for the Bank through the Data Certification Pathway programme. While he was on the programme, he was also able to be a positive role model at home.

Gerard Tan, 43, who has been with OCBC Bank for over 17 years, is currently the Head of Digital Strategy and Marketing in Global Treasury. In his role, he leads a team to build digital platforms to engage customers across all segments to grow the business for his division.

Smartly using what we already have

When I was working in Corporate Sales and Structuring within Global Treasury in Singapore, I realised that making smart use of data was essential for the Bank’s continued success. I now strongly believe that we can effectively use data analytics to create increasingly targeted and relevant products for our customers. By analysing the information we already possess, we can design customer-centric solutions and improve customer experience. This will differentiate us and give us a competitive advantage in the industry.

From data newbie to data storyteller

I knew that understanding data analytics and machine learning would give me an added edge in my role. But there was one problem. I had no background whatsoever in data analytics or programming. But that would not stop me. I could learn.

Therefore, when my manager surfaced the Data Certification Pathway (DCP), Data Scientist Track at Ngee Ann Polytechnic, I saw it as the perfect opportunity for me. DCP is a 12 to 18-month long programme co-developed by OCBC data experts and Ngee Ann Polytechnic. The great thing about the programme was that it ensured an effective transition from theory to application.

I admit I went into DCP as a complete newbie! I jumped in and had to ramp up quickly by fully immersing and applying myself to the programme. It was intense. We had classroom and online learning, project work, assignments and assessments. But I lapped it all up.

By the time I graduated, I could code using Python, apply various machine learning methods and importantly, learned to tell stories using data. It was interesting, eye-opening, very relevant and fun. What really impressed me was the emphasis the instructors had placed on ensuring that what we had learned would get translated to actual application in the workplace. And I did apply what I had learned!

Putting theory into practice

After the DCP, I was promoted to the position of Head of Digital Strategy and Marketing within Global Treasury. I can confidently say that the DCP has given me a solid foundation in better understanding the power of using data well. In fact, while learning, I conceived several ideas for the Bank using machine learning and data analytics. I believe these ideas, which are now being implemented, will lead us to provide better products and services for our customers.

Passing on the learning spirit

Where change is the only constant, learning is crucial. Learning is lifelong. Learning empowers me, keeps me on my toes and motivates me to improve. I’m thankful that OCBC Bank has given me many opportunities throughout my career to learn and upgrade.

Permit me a personal note about my time at DCP. I’m a family man with a lovely wife and two great boys. As most of my learning was at home because of Covid-19, I could set a good example for my sons that their dad can effectively balance work, study and looking after the family all at the same time. Not only that, we also found time to regularly exercise and contribute to the community through our church. I think I’ve been a positive role model to my sons. I don’t have data to prove that. You’ll have to take my word for it!

Gerard with his wife and two boys.