Listen "Empowering Graduates and Improving Job Market Fit w/ Simon Birkett"
Episode Synopsis
In this episode of Made it in Thailand, Simon Birkett joins me to discuss his remarkable career transition from commercial property to becoming a tech innovator in Thailand. Simon’s work with digital mapping revolutionized urban planning in Bangkok and even played a role in a U.S. presidential reelection campaign. Listen in as Simon reveals the highs and lows of doing business in Thailand, from initial setbacks to groundbreaking successes, and his current passion project focused on empowering young professionals.00:00 Introduction00:36 Meet Simon Birkett: From London to Thailand01:22 Simon's Early Life and Career Beginnings03:55 First Steps in Thailand: Opportunities and Challenges04:46 Language Skills and Cultural Adaptation08:34 The Business Landscape in 1991 Thailand14:25 Tech Ventures and Networking in Thailand25:29 Navigating Business Challenges and Competition29:09 Reflections on the Financial Crisis34:18 Lessons Learned and Advice for New Entrepreneurs42:40 Bangkok's Transportation Data Overhaul43:49 Visualization and MapInfo Collaboration44:13 Clinton's Campaign and Bangkok's Tech Scene45:59 The 90s Tech Buzz in Bangkok48:35 Challenges in Thai Banking and Bureaucracy51:59 The Birth of Tinman56:46 Addressing Recruitment Challenges01:02:23 Tinman's Approach to Better Job Matching01:09:45 Improving Workforce Quality in Thailand01:11:37 Connecting Students and Employers01:24:08 Closing Thoughts and Contact Information
ZARZA We are Zarza, the prestigious firm behind major projects in information technology.