How did you start your moderation journey?
“I began my moderation journey through industry associations such as CCAM, PIKOM, EDX Events, and the Ortus Club, and later was also invited in my capacity as Chief Digital Officer of Daythree to moderate at MDEC-related events. Interestingly, my very first experience came about by chance — I stepped in to replace someone at the last minute and quickly discovered how much I enjoyed guiding discussions and bringing diverse perspectives together. What started as a one-off opportunity has since evolved into a meaningful part of my professional journey.”
What do you find most exciting about moderating?
“What excites me most about moderating is the exchange of diverse perspectives and the energy that comes from live discussions. I enjoy guiding conversations toward meaningful outcomes while also learning from the audience, as every session brings fresh insights that broaden my own perspective. Beyond that, I value the exposure to thought leadership and the opportunity to connect with industry peers, which makes moderating both a rewarding and enriching experience.”
How do you typically prepare to moderate an Ortus event?
“To prepare for an Ortus event, I make it a point to get to know the participants beforehand by reviewing their profiles and industry backgrounds. This allows me to anticipate the perspectives they may bring and shape the discussion flow. I also work closely with the Ortus Club team and the event sponsor to align on objectives, and I’ve found the Ortus team to be especially helpful in coordinating these preparations seamlessly. Alongside that, I prepare guiding questions and draw on my own experience in digital transformation to enrich the conversation, ensuring it is engaging, practical, and outcome-driven.”
What tips and tricks would you recommend for aspiring moderators?
“For those aspiring to become moderators, I would recommend starting with the basics that are both achievable and impactful. Active listening is the most important skill — it allows you to pick up on key points and frame follow-up questions that keep the discussion relevant. Balancing airtime across participants is another simple but powerful technique, ensuring that different perspectives are heard and the conversation doesn’t get dominated by a few voices. I also find it useful to summarise points periodically, as it helps keep the dialogue focused and allows participants to reflect on the key learnings. By applying these approaches, a moderator can address the most pressing issues while keeping the conversation engaging and meaningful.”
In what ways has moderating contributed to your growth as a leader in your field?
“Moderating has been a valuable catalyst for both my personal and professional growth. It has expanded my network globally, allowing me to connect with leaders across industries and geographies. The experience has also given me greater confidence in handling diverse perspectives, a skill that continues to grow with every session. Most importantly, it has influenced how I lead discussions internally with my team, clients, and stakeholders, helping me create more balanced, engaging, and outcome-driven conversations.”
