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Employee Stories

Walter Song

This is how Walter found his purpose in leadership

Walter profile picture

It all started with building trust

Walter began his career with Standard Chartered in 2011 as a Banking Associate – a role that set the foundation for everything that came after. As he moved through various Relationship Manager positions, he discovered what truly drove him – supporting clients through meaningful financial decisions.

Realising leadership was the next step

In 2016, after four years as a Relationship Manager, Walter made the transition to sales leadership. The shift wasn’t sudden, it was something he felt drawn to from early on. He always had the urge to step up and take the lead, he had ideas and wanted to bring the team along to the final destination.

My proudest moments as a Relationship Manager were always when clients reached their goals. Those relationships taught me the value of trust and connection.
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Walter Song
Senior Branch Manager

Taking on roles as Business Manager and later Branch Manager, he began to understand leadership in a new light. It wasn’t just about his own better performance. It was about helping others perform better.

Learning what it means to lead

Moving from individual contributor to people leader came with its challenges. Managing client relationships is very different from managing people. Interpersonal dynamics can be complex and there isn’t a single right answer.

Support from the bank made the journey smoother. Leadership programmes like LeadX and the Management Master Series helped him sharpen his capabilities. He reflects how Standard Chartered Bank doesn’t hold back when it comes to developing leaders, the programmes really changed how he views leadership.

Walter with colleagues at a table
Walter at an award celebration
Walter at the wealth management summit

Finding purpose in growing others

Looking back, the most rewarding part of leadership for Walter has been watching others thrive. Happy clients and happy Relationship Managers – that’s what keeps him going. He found seeing people grow in their careers and personal lives incredibly fulfilling.

A note from Walter to aspiring Relationship Manager

If you care about people development and want to make a positive impact, this is the right path. Leadership isn’t just a role – it’s a responsibility to help others succeed.