She started working with the company 20 years ago, after graduating from the Indiana University Bloomington with a BA in Communications.
IntraFish: How did you begin working in the seafood industry?
Jessie Ng: I worked briefly in the advertising sector after graduating from college. It was my father who introduced to the seafood business. He just told me to have an open mind and see if I liked it. So I started as a trainee at Pacific Andes. And many years later, I am still in this business, but I have worked my way up through various positions in the company.
IF: What attracted you about the seafood industry?
JN: It is global and it is a 'people' business. You get a chance to meet people from all over the world and be exposed to different cultures and ideas. You are building relationships all the time and this is what makes this industry so fascinating.
IF: Would you encourage other women to seek a career in this industry? Why?
JN: Yes, of course. It's challenging to be in this male-dominated industry sometimes, but there are absolute advantages being a woman. For starters, because there are so few of us, it is easier for others to recognize our names and who we work for!
Besides, this business is so international. Fish is food. Everyone who loves to travel, appreciates different cultures, cook, or eat can relate to this business. Fish and seafood is found in every cuisine in the world. The way of preparation is endless. We are constantly learning and taking part in introducing new way of preparation and new species to different cultures in different countries. It is never a dull moment.
IF: What advise would you give aspiring female seafood executives?
JN: It is OK to be teased. Enjoy the ride and learn as much as you can when your male counterparts are open to teaching you. This is the best industry for women because we naturally understand food, and being surrounded by men is a great way to understand men. This has long-term real life applications and benefits!
Also, you are what you make of yourself. There are no short of opportunities in this business. You have to seize these opportunities and make the most of it while you can. Time waits for no one. Seek, learn, and read to enrich your knowledge. And never stop trying.
IF: What are the biggest challenges facing female seafood executives in the industry?
JN: As in any industry, women are torn between a career in the corporate world and obligations as a mother. Having to choose between the two, especially when they are in conflict sometimes, that would be the biggest challenge for many women.
IF: Why are there so few women in executive roles in seafood?
JN: The job is time consuming and there is no specific start or end time as fish business is global. So it's common to work across different time zones. This may be more demanding for some if they have family obligations and help is not necessarily available.
IF: How can the industry recruit more women into the sector?
JN: Women are great at multi-tasking and women's intuition could prove valuable in many situations. The industry could create jobs or flexible schedules within the company that take into account women's needs i.e. obligations to the home, to attract more women into the sector.
IF: What was the dumbest advice a man in the industry has ever given you?
JN: There is no 'dumb' advice. It can simply be poorly conceived ones. This can come from men or women. Personally, I am open to all advice. I just adopt what's relevant and mentally process and retain the rest for future reference.
