SID names former Ogilvy PR APAC president Emily Poon as CEO

The Singapore Institute of Directors (SID) has appointed Emily Poon as its new chief executive officer. Poon will join as CEO-designate from 1 March 2026 and officially take over on 1 May 2026. She succeeds Terence Quek who is stepping down after four years at the helm. 

Poon brings more than 20 years of experience in leadership, strategy, and communications, most recently serving as Asia Pacific president of Ogilvy Public Relations. Her leadership experience spans advisory work with C-suites and boards, talent development, and organisational strategy across Asia Pacific.

At Ogilvy PR, she was the youngest and first female Asia Pacific president, overseeing 26 offices and driving year-on-year growth while pioneering AI and digital media innovations. In addition, as an accredited director and SID member, Poon has advised boards across corporate, academic, and public sectors.

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She currently sits on the Industry Advisory Council at the National University of Singapore, the Families for Life Council under the Ministry of Social and Family Development, and the executive committee of Singapore Management University’s Leading Executives and Directors Alumni Group.

SID chair Yeoh Oon Jin said the council sought a candidate with “industry experience across geographies, passion about our mission, and a firm commitment to raising governance standards here and in the region."

“Poon has a strong track record in leadership roles, deep expertise in engaging diverse stakeholders, building trusted communities and partnerships, as well as her advisory experience in boards and governance-related areas,' added Yeoh. 

Yeoh also thanked Quek for his service to SID over the past four years, noting that he has contributed significantly to the growth of the organisation.

Poon described the appointment as “a privilege” and said she looks forward to “listening closely to our members, engaging our partners, and building on the strong foundation and momentum laid by Quek and the team."

"My focus remains on supporting our members, nurturing a strong community of directors, and growing SID’s ecosystem of partnerships and influence in Singapore and internationally," she added. 

Poon first stepped down from her role as president of Ogilvy PR Asia Pacific in July 2025, after five years in the role and a combined 17-year journey with the agency. She is succeeded by Richard Brett who will hold the role of president in addition to his current roles as CEO of Ogilvy PR ANZ and Ogilvy Health Australia.

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