LTC (Ret) Brian Lim

After 27 fulfilling years in the Navy, LTC (RET) Brian Lim was ready for a new chapter. Drawn to the fast-paced world of innovation, he set his sights on the tech industry — hoping to build a second career around his passion for working with people.

“I realised I loved to be able to add meaning and fulfilment to the work of others,” he said, reflecting on his roles in HR, operations, and training in the Navy.

To prepare for the transition, Brian networked actively and invested in professional development.

He earned the IHRP-Senior Professional (IHRP-SP) certification and completed a Master of Human Capital Leadership (MHCL) under the SMU Warriors Scholarship in 2021 — an initiative by the Singapore Management University for retiring SAF personnel.

His updated LinkedIn profile soon attracted interest from employers, and he eventually joined Singapore-based fintech firm M-DAQ as Senior Director of HR.

The shift to civilian life wasn’t without challenges. Brian had to adapt to a steep learning curve—communicating across 22 nationalities and juggling diverse, cross-functional projects.

But his adaptability, sincerity, and leadership — honed through years of military service — helped him quickly earn the trust of his new colleagues.

His advice to fellow SAF personnel: view your career transition as a time of discovery. “Always see how you can be better, each and every day, to add value to the organisation,” he said.

M-DAQ’s Founder and Group CEO, Richard Koh, agreed. “SAF personnel bring a set of unique skills — coming from a large organisation, they are adept at introducing structure and processes. To transition well, it's pivotal that they learn and re-learn, and Brian has adapted very well.”