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Swin's Full-Circle Journey with Dell’s Finance Development Program

Swin Haur Chiam | Sales Planning & Strategy Consultant | Malaysia

Originally Published: October 17, 2025

My Dell journey officially began in 2015 as an intern, fresh out of university. But the story actually started in 2012, when Dell came to my campus for a recruitment drive. That was the first time I heard about the Finance Development Program (FDP), and I knew right then that it was something I wanted to be part of. Years later, when I finally joined Dell and achieved that dream, it felt surreal — especially getting the chance to work with some of the very people I had met during that session. What began as an aspiration during my university days became the foundation of my career. 

Diverse Roles and Global Exposure 

Today, I serve as a Business Partner in Global Business Operations, supporting the APJC Distribution business. My role is similar to a Controller, working closely with Sales Leadership to deliver on our financial plans and maintain discipline around expenses. Along the way, I’ve rotated across Financial Planning & Analysis, Global Operations Finance, Special Pricing, Accounting, and Vendor Funding. Each function taught me something unique and gave me a deeper understanding of how Dell operates globally. One of the defining experiences of my career was a six-month rotation in Sydney. It wasn’t easy to move abroad and adapt to a new culture, but it pushed me out of my comfort zone, broadened my perspective, and gave me the confidence to take on larger, more complex responsibilities. 

Mentorship, Development, and Giving Back 

From the start, Dell has emphasized talent development — and I’ve benefited from it first-hand. The structured rotations of the FDP and FAP gave me both technical and leadership training, but what made the biggest difference were the mentors and advocates who guided me along the way. They challenged me, opened doors, and believed in me even before I fully believed in myself. Today, I try to give back in the same way. As part of the Dell Malaysia FDP Council, I recruit, interview, and mentor new members, helping them navigate their own journeys. It’s rewarding to contribute to the very program that shaped my career. 

 

Lessons From Challenges and Growth 

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the power of clear communication. Data and analysis are essential, but translating them into a compelling story helps stakeholders make better decisions. Another key learning is to always see the bigger picture, as understanding how different parts of the business connect has allowed me to influence cross-functional teams and drive meaningful outcomes. I’ve also grown through challenges, such as leading the rollout of GTM 3.0. Not everyone was on board at first, and it taught me the importance of listening sincerely, explaining the “why,” and building shared ownership. These experiences shaped me into a more confident communicator, a more strategic thinker, and a more empathetic leader. 

Career Tips for Growth and Relocation 

Looking back, relocating, rotating roles, and transitioning between responsibilities were not always easy — but they were transformative. Each move brought new learning curves, and what made the difference was not only learning what to do, but also why it mattered and building strong relationships along the way. For anyone considering similar opportunities, here are my top tips: 

  1. Be proactive and prepared – Know the purpose of each move and what you want to achieve. 
  2. Leverage the support available – Relocation services, mentors, and colleagues can ease transitions. 
  3. Build relationships early – Small efforts, like sharing lunch or joining gatherings, go a long way. 
  4. Stay curious and open-minded – Cultural and role differences are opportunities, not obstacles. 
  5. Give yourself time to adjust – Every transition feels unfamiliar at first; with patience, it gets easier. 

     

At Dell, I’ve found more than just a career. I’ve grown into a more mature, confident professional, gained lifelong mentors and peers, and experienced the value of “Winning Together.” I never imagined I’d progress this far, this fast — and I’m deeply grateful for the opportunities, the challenges, and the people who have helped shape who I am today. 

   

To learn more about life at Dell, visit Our Stories.

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