In many family businesses, succession is seen as inevitable—a seat at the top passed down through generations. But for Michelle Tiu Lim-Chan, President and CEO of Mega Prime Foods Inc., makers of Mega Sardines, leadership is not something you inherit. It’s something you earn.
In an exclusive interview with Financial Adviser PH, Michelle shared her philosophy on succession, leadership, and how she’s preparing the next generation to step into the business—not through entitlement, but through experience, purpose, and merit.
Earning the Seat Starts Early
“Not everyone is built to lead,” Michelle said. “Succession should never be assumed—it should be earned.”
That mindset has guided the company’s approach to grooming future leaders. From bringing the next generation to the factory floor to giving them early exposure to business operations, Michelle believes in creating hands-on learning opportunities that go beyond boardroom conversations.
“Bring them to the office, to the factory—let it become their playground,” she said. “That’s how real understanding and ownership begin.”
Her own experience mirrors this path. Michelle didn’t step into leadership with a title alone. She worked her way up, built systems from scratch, and proved her value across different parts of the business.
“I know how important it is to earn trust, not just carry a title,” she said.
Mentorship with Intention
At Mega, mentoring is not left to chance. Michelle emphasizes the importance of intentional leadership development, which includes observing strengths, giving meaningful responsibilities, and creating an environment where feedback flows both ways.
“We focus on mentoring with intention, setting clear expectations, and building a culture where leadership is based on merit and purpose, not just legacy,” she explained.
That approach helps build future-ready leaders who are not only familiar with the business but are also deeply aligned with its values—malasakit, integrity, and service.
Systems Over Surnames
One of Michelle’s most impactful changes was the digital transformation of Mega’s operations. With a background in Management Information Systems (MIS), she introduced company-wide structures and systems that rely on data, not gut feel.
“I applied what I learned to help modernize our operations,” she said. “I developed the systems we use in the company today, making sure that all critical control points are being monitored.”
Her data-driven approach extends to leadership decisions as well. “Every decision I make is always based on data. Numbers are the best indicators of risks and success factors.”
This framework removes emotion and bias from business decisions—including succession—and ensures that roles are assigned based on capability and contribution, not seniority or bloodline.
Faith as a Leadership Compass
Michelle also credits her decision-making clarity to faith. “I have deep faith in God. I pray over decisions and ask for guidance, and more often than not, the answer becomes evident—and I follow.”
That blend of faith and logic defines her leadership: grounded in purpose, anchored by systems, and elevated by values.
“Growth often comes with discomfort,” she said, “but when guided by God and purpose, it leads to stronger foundations.”
Tradition and Innovation Can Coexist
As a second-generation leader, Michelle knows the fine line between respecting legacy and embracing change. For her, the two are not mutually exclusive.
“I don’t change tradition—I enhance it through digitalization,” she said. “Innovation becomes an extension of who we are, not a departure.”
She points to a recent milestone: Mega Sardines’ certification by the Medical Wellness Association as a superfood. It’s a nod to the company’s commitment to both product quality and nutritional value—proof that even legacy products can evolve without losing their roots.
“We don’t innovate just to be different—we innovate to serve better,” Michelle emphasized.
A Clear Path Forward
For Michelle, the future of Mega Prime Foods is about stewardship, not succession. It’s about creating leaders who are ready, not just related.
By combining early exposure, structured mentorship, data-driven decisions, and faith-driven purpose, Michelle is rewriting the family business playbook—one seat at a time.
