Working at Lazada Singapore: Company History, Culture, Benefits, and Leadership

Established in 2012, Lazada Group is a leading eCommerce platform in Southeast Asia, spanning six countries. They prioritize connectivity through advanced technology and efficient logistics. Lazada focuses on unlocking the potential of its diverse team, fostering a culture of curiosity and continuous improvement. They aim to transform the retail landscape collectively. Our exploration with Aniday will cover Lazada Singapore's history, work environment, benefits, leadership, and values.

General Information

Established in 2012, Lazada Group stands as the frontrunner eCommerce platform in Southeast Asia. 

Currently operating across Southeast Asia, they managed to foster connectivity in this region through cutting-edge technology, efficient logistics, and robust payment capabilities. 

To date, Lazada has the most extensive array of brands and sellers, however, they are en route to achieving their goal of catering to 300 million customers by 2030.

Company History 

Foundation (2012)

• Founded by Maximillian Bittner with the aim of establishing an Amazon-like business model in Southeast Asia.

• Launched e-commerce website and IOS and Andriod mobile apps thereafter

Operations and Headquarters (2014)

• Started operations in Singapore in May 2014, where it is currently headquartered.

• Recorded $152.5 million in net operating losses in 2014, with net revenues of $154.3 million.

Challenges and Growth (2015-2016)

• Faced challenges in 2015 due to low online shopping preferences in the region.

• Claimed the status of the largest e-commerce player in Southeast Asia in March 2016, recording $1.36 billion in annual gross merchandise value.

New Services and Initiatives (2018-2019)

• Introduced LazMall in September 2018, encouraging users to purchase from authentic brands.

• Implemented new services such as a 15-day return policy and next-day delivery options.

• Partnered with Citibank in December 2019 to launch a new credit card.

Funding and Alibaba's Stake (2016-2017)

• Alibaba Group announced its intention to acquire a controlling stake in Lazada in April 2016, investing $1 billion.

• Alibaba's stake in Lazada increased from 51% to 83% in June 2017 after injecting an additional $1 billion.

Company Culture 

Mission

Driving Advancement in Southeast Asia Through Commerce and Technology

Vision (By 2030)

• Serve 300 million customers

• Generate millions of jobs in the eCommerce ecosystems

• Empower viable and thriving SMEs across SEA

Core Values

1. Customers First, Employees Second, Shareholders Third

This signifies their prioritization of values. It is through the ongoing creation of customer value that they empower the growth of employees, ultimately allowing shareholders to attain long-term benefits.

2. Trust Makes Everything Simple

Trust is simultaneously the most precious and delicate element in the world. "Their narrative," focused on "Aliren and Lazadians," revolves around constructing and nurturing trust. Complexity gives rise to further complexity, while simplicity begets simplicity. Lazadians are known for their straightforwardness – what they perceive is precisely what they receive. With trust, there is no room for second-guessing or suspicion, leading to enhanced simplicity and efficiency.

3. Change Is The Only Constant

Whether they change or not, the world is changing, their customers are changing, and the competitive landscape is changing. They must face change with respect and humility. Otherwise, they will fail to see it, fail to respect it, fail to understand it, and fail to catch up with it.

4. Today’s Best Performance Is Tomorrow’s Baseline

In Lazada’s toughest times, this spirit helped them overcome challenges. They motivate themselves in adversity and set ambitious goals in good times, always pushing forward.

5. If Not Now, When? If Not Me, Who?

Originating from Alibaba's first job ad, this phrase is a call to duty, emphasizing the sense of ownership each Aliren-Lazadian should embrace.

6. Live Seriously, Work Happily

“Work is now, life is forever. Enjoy work and life, approach both seriously, and find purpose. You contribute to making Alibaba unique and bring pride to your loved ones. Respect each person’s perspective on work and life; embodying this value depends on how you live your life.” -- Jack Ma.

Working Environment 

At Lazada, they are establishing new benchmarks for eCommerce by unlocking the potential of their people. They appreciate curiosity and passion, fostering an environment where technology and tools enable the emergence of the best ideas from their team. Experimenting, learning, and continuous improvement are part of their daily approach. 

Whether running campaigns or testing ideas, they infuse a sense of enjoyment. Their diversity mirrors the region they connect because they recognize the strength in differences. Ultimately, they are united in their mission to collectively transform the retail landscape.

Employee benefits

• Salary: Competitive, performance-based compensation packages aligned with qualifications, experience, job size, and skill sets. Regular reviews ensure alignment with market trends.

• Bonus: Performance bonus, Annual Wage Supplement, Long Service Award. Proft-Sharing Bonus.

• Insurance, Health, & Wellness: Accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance, Dental Insurance, Health Insurance, Life Insurance, Vision Insurance, Gym/Wellness Reimbursement.

• Leave Policy: Annual Leave, Sick Leave.

• Retirement and Savings: Employee Savings or Retirement Plans. 

• Employee Recognition: Recognition programs or awards for outstanding performance.

• Development: Education/Training/Tuition/Certification Reimbursement.

• Others: Flexible Work Arrangements, Staff Discount, Free Drinks

Company Leadership

• Loh Wee Lee - CEO: previously held the position of Chief of Staff and Head of CEO Office at Lazada Group and Lazada Indonesia. Wee Lee supported the Group CEO in implementing commercial strategies and led corporate development efforts, focusing on strengthening strategic partnerships and executing M&A transactions.

• Marcus Chew - CMO: In this role, Marcus managed the sports performance brand marketing budget, led communication plans, and won awards for campaigns, including an Effie Gold for the Women's Campaign and a PR APAC SABRE award for best publicity stunt in the Euro 2012 digital campaign.

• Lillian Jiang - CPO: As Lazada Group's Chief People Officer, Lillian Jiang manages the HR function across markets, driving organizational and people growth. With four years as the CPO for Alibaba Local Services Co., she brings extensive HR expertise.

In Summary

Established in 2012, Lazada Group is a leading eCommerce platform in Southeast Asia, connecting six countries through advanced technology and efficient logistics. They prioritize unlocking the potential of their diverse team, fostering a culture of curiosity, passion, and continuous improvement. Aniday hopes this article has given you insights into Lazada Singapore’s history, culture, benefits, and leadership.