“I’m motivated by the privilege of making a meaningful difference where it matters most.” – Andrew Tay
Andrew Tay made a pivot into the social service sector a decade ago with one goal in mind: to serve those who need support most. Since then, he has led organisations across rehabilitation, early childhood education, and community services, including Prison Fellowship Singapore, Anglican Preschool Services, and now HCSA Community Services. Reflecting on his journey, he realises that what once seemed like separate chapters in his career “were all preparing me for this work”.
While discerning his next chapter, Tay found himself returning to one word: vulnerable. It became a conviction that the experiences he had accumulated over the years were meant to be invested in supporting those with the fewest opportunities and weakest support networks.
What continues to motivate him is “the privilege of making a meaningful difference where it matters most”. For Tay, every transformed life creates a ripple effect across families and communities.
Today, Andrew Tay leads with the belief that leadership is less about having all the answers than asking the right questions and creating the conditions for people, organisations, and communities to grow, flourish, and succeed.
What have you changed your mind about recently?
For a long time, I believed that a leader needed to see more clearly, know more, and do better than everyone else. Over the years, I’ve come to realise that’s neither possible nor desirable.
What’s a habit that has helped you throughout your life?
One habit that has had the greatest impact on my life is intentionally creating space to think. Amid the demands of leadership, I make time to reflect, pray, and seek the perspectives of trusted people before making important decisions. Those moments of reflection help me lead with greater clarity and purpose, rather than simply reacting to what feels most urgent.
Which aspect of social service do you think is misunderstood?
Many people measure success in social service by the number of people helped. I believe the truer measure is whether lives are still being transformed years later. Lasting change takes time. It is about walking alongside people as they rebuild confidence, restore relationships, and create better futures.
What quality do you value most in the people you work with?
The quality I value most is alignment. I value people who challenge ideas, ask difficult questions, and contribute honestly, but once a decision is made, commit to moving forward together. Healthy debate strengthens decisions, while alignment gives them the best chance of succeeding.
Tell us something you’re working to improve on.
I’m still learning to be a more patient listener. My instinct is to process things quickly and respond, but I’ve realised that the best insights often come from listening more deeply. Slowing down not only leads to better decisions but also helps people feel genuinely heard and understood.
Do you have a book, experience, or conversation that continues to inspire you?
One idea that has stayed with me is that leadership begins with purpose and is sustained by trust—a conviction reinforced by books such as Start With Why by Simon Sinek and The Speed of Trust by Stephen M R Covey. Purpose gives people a reason to journey together, while trust gives them the confidence to do so.
How do you spend your free time?
I enjoy spending time with my family as those moments keep me grounded and remind me of what matters most. I also enjoy cycling and golf, which give me space to slow down, recharge, and return to work with greater clarity and gratitude.
Photography by Eugene Lee of Enfinite / Hair & Makeup by Sveta Klyn of Suburbs Studio