Chris Chiu exits Mandai Wildlife Group and Mandai X after five years

After more than five years at Mandai Wildlife Group and Mandai X, creative industry veteran Chris Chiu is stepping away from the wildlife and nature group to focus on what he calls "me time".

In a statement to MARKETING-INTERACTIVE, a Mandai X spokesperson said " Chiu has been a valued pioneering member of Mandai X. His expertise and dedication have made a significant impact on the work we do. We thank him for contributions over the years and wish him a well-deserved retirement." 

Chiu served as vice president (creative and content) at Mandai Wildlife Group from March 2021, before taking on an additional role as head of brand in June 2025. He also led brand creative and intellectual property development at Mandai X from August 2023.

Don't miss: Howie Lau bids farewell to NCS Group after five years 

Speaking to MARKETING-INTERACTIVE, Chiu said the decision was driven by personal considerations following a period of reflection over the past few years.

"Been asked this many times, understandably. Essentially certain events over the last few years on the personal side led to this decision. Completely enjoyed being a part of both organisations. Just time is all," he said.

Chiu joined Mandai in 2021 after a career spent largely in advertising, bringing decades of agency experience to one of Singapore's most recognisable destination and wildlife brands. During his time with the organisation, he oversaw creative and content efforts while spearheading intellectual property development initiatives.

While he is keeping details under wraps for now, Chiu said some of the projects he helped build are nearing completion. "My main remit was IP development and the key projects that entailed. All are in final production stage right now and best to leave the surprise for when it happens," he said.

Prior to joining Mandai, Chiu spent decades in the advertising industry, holding senior creative leadership roles across agencies including DDB Group Singapore, J. Walter Thompson and Leo Burnett.

Reflecting on the transition from agency life to the brand side, Chiu said he deliberately chose not to change his approach to creativity and brand-building.

"Interestingly, and whether right or not, I tried not to change anything in my mindset. I figured my thinking got me to this opportunity and it would be strange to do it all another way," he said, adding: 

Focus on the creative strategy and execution. Keep things on brand on all aspects and touch points as much as I could control.

Before joining Mandai, Chiu was group chief creative officer at DDB Group Singapore, where he also headed the DDB Asia Creative Council and served on the DDB Global Creative Council. He previously held leadership positions at J. Walter Thompson and Leo Burnett, including chief executive officer and chief creative officer of Leo Burnett Singapore.

As for what's next, Chiu is in no rush to make a decision.

After decades spent leading creative departments, agencies and brand teams, Chiu plans to focus on personal interests while continuing his involvement with charities and organisations he supports.

"Right now, it's just me time. Which means my dogs, golf and some effort on the fitness bits. I'm still on some committees with charities and organisations, so all in all, there's enough to keep me busy for now," he said. 

Chiu's departure comes amid broader leadership changes at Mandai. Earlier this year, the group appointed Agatha Yap as chief marketing officer. Jean Choi continues to lead commercial strategy and global partnerships as chief sales officer.

Yap joined Mandai from Scoot and takes on the role as Mandai Wildlife Reserve approaches completion and enters its next phase of growth. Recent months have also seen the group deepen its focus on partnerships and destination marketing, including a global media agency appointment and collaborations spanning tourism, entertainment and aviation.

Related articles:  
Mandai becomes Asia's first real-life Minecraft adventure  
Mandai goes wild with Disney’s 'Zootopia 2' immersive takeover  
JISOO chooses her wild in new music video with STB and Mandai