Career Journeys at IOI

Get to know the heart of IOI Group through the stories of our dedicated employees. Discover their diverse career journeys, their contributions across various departments, and the wealth of experience that drives our collective success. Here, we proudly showcase the individuals who embody the spirit and commitment of the Group.

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Nishan A/L Baby @ Surentharan
Duration6 years
Senior Manager, Business System & Governance

Having been with IOI for the past six years, I’ve experienced firsthand what makes this company truly special. IOI offers a unique, collaborative workplace that embraces diversity and inclusion, where every voice is valued and respected. The company’s strong values are integrity, excellence, and responsibility, which are consistently reflected in our daily work. IOI invests in its people through continuous learning and development, and provides opportunities to upskill and grow professionally. Leadership here is not just about position, it’s about mindset. I’ve been encouraged and supported to lead initiatives, mentor others and expand my capabilities.


IOI is more than just a workplace; it’s a dynamic environment where potential is nurtured, growth is continuous, and every individual is empowered to make an impact.

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Deborah Bong Chia Hui
Duration13 years
Manager, Finance

I am deeply grateful to have been awarded the IOI Foundation’s scholarship, a pivotal moment that marked the beginning of my rewarding career at IOI. As a fresh graduate in the Accounts and Finance department, I focused on key areas such as management and financial reporting, statutory compliance and risk management. With the support and guidance of experienced superiors, I successfully completed my ACCA qualification while balancing full-time work – a milestone that strengthened my expertise and sharpened my technical understanding. Over the years, I have been actively involved in finance and treasury operations, including managing Forex, cash flow, and working capital optimisation.


Now in my 13th year in IOI, and serving as a Finance Manager, this journey has been more than a career – it’s a story of personal growth, resilience and opportunities. IOI’s comprehensive training and coaching programmes have shaped me into a more skilled and effective leader. I remain deeply motivated by the unwavering support of my colleagues and superiors, and am honoured to contribute to IOI’s continued success and to grow alongside it.

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Samantha Lim Pei Ying
Duration5 years
Senior Executive, Corporate Communications

My journey with IOI began through the IOI Scholarship, a life-changing opportunity that not only funded my studies but gave me a remarkable start to my career. Over the years, I have sharpened my expertise by embracing challenges, gaining industry insights, and being part of several impactful projects. I have worked with an incredible team, honed my leadership and strategic planning skills, and discovered a passion for continuous learning and development.


IOI is more than just a workplace – it’s where we progress together. The company fosters both personal and professional growth, investing in the potential of every employee and empowering our future. I am proud to be part of this journey, growing alongside a company that believes in nurturing its talents and cultivating growth.

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Yuvaraj A/L B Manogaran
Duration8 years
Deputy Manager, Quality Assurance

It has been a wonderful journey filled with joy and pride since I joined the Department of Quality Assurance in IOI Pan-Century Oleochemicals Sdn Bhd and IOI Pan-Century Edible Oils Sdn Bhd in 2017 as an Engineer. I started in an unfamiliar industry with zero knowledge, as my education didn’t align with the job descriptions. But a platform was provided for me to shine and contribute to the organisational goals and mission. Though there have been downfalls and stress, I consider them as part and parcel of the working life.


What began as a career without clear direction grew with great passion, sheer persistence and perseverance over the years as I weathered through the difficulties with the guidance of my superior and invaluable competency trainings, which led me to become a Deputy Manager in my mid-30s. Thank you, IOI, for carving the route of my growing career, and leading me towards continuous professional and personal development. I look forward to more opportunities and prosperity.

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Ryan Chong Zhe Haw
Duration10 years
Manager, Production

After completing my internship at IOI Edible Oils Sdn Bhd, I was employed as a Mechatronics Engineering graduate. With guidance and training, I progressed to Production Manager by staying hands-on, solving challenges and improving operations. I was entrusted to lead several in-house Research & Development projects – optimising crystallisation cycles to boost capacity, reducing contaminant levels in food, and enhancing heat recovery. I also introduced a more efficient bleaching process and improved crude palm oil washing systems to reduce waste and enhance sustainability. These innovations improved plant performance and reduced IOI’s carbon footprint.


My efforts have been recognised through awards such as the ASEAN and National Energy Awards (2018, 2021 and 2022), and most recently, the Asia Pacific Sustainable Innovation Enterprise Award 2025 in the Food & Beverage category. IOI has provided a strong platform for my development and growth, and I remain committed to learning, innovating and contributing to this industry.

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Dr Tee Choon Yang
Duration3 years
Assistant Manager, Biotechnology

Joining IOI Palm Biotech in 2022 marked a pivotal chapter in my career. Initially, I managed the research and development plus the operations of the tissue culture laboratory, but found opportunities to apply my scientific training while honing my leadership and people management skills. With the support of a collaborative team and clear direction from management, I was promoted to Assistant Manager in 2023.


This journey has been rewarding and humbling – from co-ordinating projects to contributing to international consortia, I’ve grown as a scientist, a manager and a mentor. IOI’s culture of continuous improvement and encouragement has empowered me to drive innovation while developing my growth, personally and professionally.

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Chai Tian Siang
Duration17 years
Senior Manager, Mill

As an IOI Foundation scholar, my journey from a Cadet Engineer to a Senior Manager in the palm oil industry has been shaped by a strong foundation in technical knowledge, perseverance and a commitment to excellence. Starting at the ground level, I embraced every challenge in the mill, learning hands-on while adapting to the dynamic nature of the palm oil industry. My growth was supported by IOI's emphasis on continuous learning, safety and integrity – values I now champion as a Senior Manager.


I believe in leading by example, and I have led my team with efficiency, sustainability and innovation to ensure our operations align with the company’s culture of accountability and performance. I also believe in empowering my team to take ownership and cultivating a positive work environment. My transformation from a cadet to a leader is a testament to IOI’s dedication to nurturing talent and building future-ready leaders in the industry.

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Harish Chandar A/L Ramesh Chandar
Duration15 years
Manager, Production

Being a recipient of the prestigious IOI Scholarship, I have enjoyed a rewarding career since I rose from a Plant Engineer to a Production Manager at IOI Oleochemical Industries Berhad. My roles and responsibilities are to oversee the operations at oleochemical plants manufacturing fatty acid and glycerine. I ensure the plants are capable of meeting the targeted capacity, quality and yield while ensuring process safety, high plant uptime and low operating cost.


I am truly grateful to the top management for providing comprehensive trainings and exposure to keep me updated with the current manufacturing and engineering trends. I am also appreciative of the culture of openness and transparency within the company. This makes me feel trusted, valued and eager to share my ideas for improvement. I certainly look forward to continuing to contribute to the success of the organisation by ensuring operational excellence.

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Mastura Binti Mohamed
Duration11 years
Assistant Manager, Sustainability

I’ve been with IOI for almost 11 years, starting as an Officer, and now, I am serving as an Assistant Manager for Corporate Sustainability. My journey has been one of continuous growth, learning and purpose. In my role, I help ensure sustainability compliance and drive ESG disclosure across the company – work that keeps us accountable and transparent.


What makes IOI truly special is the supportive environment where leaders empower and teams collaborate with a genuine spirit. As a mother, I’m especially grateful for the flexibility and understanding that allows me to balance work and family without compromise. IOI has given me the space to grow professionally, build meaningful relationships and contribute to something bigger. It’s more than just a workplace – it’s where I’ve found purpose, support and a strong sense of belonging.

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Dr Yung Yen Li
Duration11 years
Manager, Quality Assurance, Quality Control and Research & Development

I joined IOI Edible Oils Sdn Bhd in 2014 as a Chemist. My journey here has been shaped by invaluable training and mentorship from knowledgeable leaders, enabling my progression to Quality Assurance, Quality Control and Research & Development Manager in 2019, where I am currently leading the laboratory operations and research initiatives. In 2022, I obtained the Palm Oil Award from the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) and was also named Junior Category Champion in the IOI Group Talent Program. As a registered chemist (ChM) with the Malaysian Institute of Chemistry and Certified Environmental Professional in Scrubber Operation under DOE, I remain committed to environmental care.


IOI encourages continuous learning.  In 2025, I earned my PhD in Chemical Engineering, reflecting the company and my dedication to food safety and mitigation strategies. This achievement was only possible through the support of my colleagues and mentor. The opportunity to publish our research in book chapters and journals also keeps me motivated to explore new frontiers.

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Ameera Nazeehah Binti Md Yussof
Duration3 years
Assistant Manager, Estate

It has been truly an honour to be part of the estate operations management team at IOI Plantation in the Sandakan Region. My journey began with a recommendation to join the IOI Cadet Planter Programme in 2022. Honestly, I was nervous at first, being a woman in the plantation industry, but that feeling quickly dissipated. From day one, IOI exceeded my expectations. The company’s culture of excellence is visible in every expect of its operations.  The inclusive environment helped me to gain confidence and I feel reassured that there are always opportunities to learn and platforms to express my ideas.


What impressed me most was how the company provides equal opportunities for growth – regardless of gender – through hand-on experience, mentorship and continuous learning. IOI is committed to growth and empowering its people. I’m grateful to be part of a company that values dedication, supports development, and believes in the potential of every person. To any women considering a similar path, don’t hesitate. If I can do it, so can you, and IOI is the perfect place to begin your journey.

Find out our latest career openings here.

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