Sometimes it takes a crisis to truly appreciate the value of a man who lives by the very definition of a leader.
Indeed, Jimmy Go, President, and CEO of VST-ECS, Phil. Inc., rose above the crisis amidst uncertainty and doubt. For Jimmy, the crisis became moments of hope - hopeful that with technology, transitioning to the new normal became less burdensome. Moments of initiative - at the height of lockdowns, Jimmy Go began distributing Covid care kits, Covid hazard assistance, Covid quarantine assistance to his employees. By March 2020, vaccine incentives were extended to its partners, vendors, and media friends.
But who is Jimmy Go? Jimmy's expertise and leadership go way back when he co-founded Micro Circuits Corporation, which grew to MSI Microcircuit Systems International. The company gained awards and recognitions when it entered a joint venture with one of the largest ICT distribution groups in the Asia Pacific region, ECS Holdings Group. MSI-ECS then became the biggest importer of top information and communications technology brands. At present, VST-ECS Philippines is recognized as the leading local IT distributor in the country.
Let us meet one of the pioneers in the ICT industry, a self-made man whose life is characterized not only by intellect but by good deeds, Mr. Jimmy Go, President and CEO of VST-ECS, Phil. Inc.
What motivates you to get up in the morning and do what you do in these challenging times?
The very purpose of this company's existence is to help make technology work for everybody. We make sure that the products, solutions, and services that we provide work. It is the company's mission to make sure technology works and through this, especially in this crisis, is how we help others.
What do you love most about your job?
Everything! I love the work that I do and the people that make up the company. It is the people who I work with within the company that makes the difference. Knowing that there are still a lot of mountains to conquer, I find work and the challenge enjoyable. The IT industry is one of the luckiest industries that have survived during the pandemic. Everyone has gone online, and the pandemic accelerated digital transformation. The need and demand for devices and software continue to grow. There is so much change in technology, and these changes happen fast. If you don’t adapt to change, “mapag iiwanan ka.”
What are you most proud of the company?
As I've mentioned earlier, it's the people in the company that make all the difference, and they are what I am most proud of. The team is what is important — that they are happy with the company —that they feel safe being in the company. There is growth, accomplishments, and that they are happy with the culture. You will see the difference in all aspects when your team is composed of happy people.
The real test came during the pandemic, where everything was uncertain. How did the company respond to it? Just like any family, the management was quick to give assurance to everyone in the company that they would be well taken care of. Employees were given vitamins, Covid care kits, hazard assistance, and quarantine assistance. Employees undergo regular covid tests and are given vaccinations. Overall, it is the love for the company and the love for the people in it surfaced. We all live by our logo – We care.
Please allow me to go a little way back to your college days. You graduated as Magna Cum Laude in Electronics and Communications Engineering at DLSU. What was college like? Did you know then that this was the path that you would take?
All I wanted then was to become a successful businessman, and I wanted to have my own business. It was a continuous journey of struggles because it wasn't something that was easy. I started MicroCircuits then MSI, and each phase had its own struggle even during the times of MSI-Digiland - there were difficulties. It was a question of how to handle all those problems.
And did I know then that this was the path that I would take? Yes. I like computers. I started a payroll program for my uncle. I was programming using an Apple 2 computer. I didn't apply for a job but did programming for my uncle. I frequented computer shops and studied what and how they do business, and then I started my own company.
If the internet wasn't invented, how different do you think it would be?
I think, definitely, the internet will be invented. If that doesn't happen, it will move the world so many years backward. Now we are in a hyperconnected world, the metaverse. Now, we realize how important technology is. If you are not into it, you'll get left behind. It is always good to learn how and try new things (like) augmented reality, AI, etc.
When you think of the future, what makes you worry?
Probably if machines become more intelligent than people, or when machines can think for themselves; but I think that is a very far away future.
Where do you see yourself and the company in 5 years?
Just recently, we were appointed by Alibaba Cloud and Amazon Web Services (AWS) as its first distribution partner in the Philippines. We've also made investments in EV devices. So, in 5 years, we would probably be already selling electric vehicles – motorbikes or vehicles. We would be selling new technologies. A lot will be in the cloud. In 5 years, it would be very different. Definitely, there will be so many changes.
You have a comprehensive list of contributions to the PH's IT landscape. If you had a chance, what would you do differently?
As to my career, I am happy with what happened. I am happy with everything. I am okay to do exactly the same—no regrets, especially when having the right people with me.
Lastly, how would you like to be remembered?
Well, aside from being successful in business, I think the most important thing is the love that I gave to the people who are part of the company. I am at peace to know that they are happy and are empowered by me. They all worked hard and had made a lot of sacrifices. I am proud of the company and they are part of what I've done.
Undoubtedly, Jimmy Go is most loved by his people and their families as well. He is not only a leader who guides his people to success; he is also a father - who listens, who cares, who takes action because he believes in his people.