Over half of Spencer Lee’s team are women, and the head of the commercial department at AirAsia Malaysia continues to be amazed by all of them, their drive and their prowess for critical thinking.
“Women are analytical, dynamic and rational individuals. Besides being great planners, they are calmer and never take no for an answer. This positive drive has enabled AirAsia to produce great results in the aviation turf,” Lee says.
“I’m surrounded by women in the office. Some say I need a bodyguard to protect me from these confident and empowered women,” Lee adds in jest, during an interview at AirAsia’s RedQ in Sepang, Selangor.
“A large percentage of women in our department hold managerial positions, too. They head sections such as marketing, sales, social media and route revenue,” says Lee, who has been with AirAsia for 13 years.
Women are analytical, calm and confident in the workplace.
Though Lee surrounds himself with strong women, he is never threatened or intimidated by their capabilities. On the contrary, he says he has never been gender specific about selecting team players. Instead, he focuses on their individual skills.
“Employment comes down to having the drive, right skills set and commitment towards the job. No matter how smart a person is, that means nothing without the right attitude. At AirAsia’s commercial department, we source talents who are driven and passionate,” Lee explains.
Lee says he’s aware that many of his colleagues are juggling various roles, especially mothers with young kids or those caring for elderly parents. “It’s important for leaders to emphasise and understand their subordinate’s concerns.”
He adds, “We live in a world where everyone is digitally connected. At times, mothers in my team work from home when caring for a child who is unwell. The key is flexibility and understanding,” says Lee, who believes in adopting versatile work policies.
AirAsia recently set up a daycare centre for kids between one and six years old, to make working more conducive for mothers. There’s also a launderette, a cafeteria and a clinic for their benefit.
Lee says any company will attract the right female talent if it has the right policies and work environment.
“At AirAsia, we have an amazing team comprising of mothers who juggle work and family. They are engineers, pilots and ramp agents (people who load and unload baggage and cargo). It is important to create a good ecosystem with facilities that empower women.”
Lee says he’s never had a major hiccup among his female colleagues. The secret is to respect everyone and work as a family.
“We take our work seriously and strive to give it our best. The job can be challenging but we embrace the work culture. Occasionally we have a get-together after work. It keeps the team stronger and united regardless of gender, colour or creed.”