CB Tan joined the company in 1967, then known as Chop Sia Huat, as a Shop Assistant. He proceeded to learn the trade from his late father and founder of Chop Sia Huat, Mr. Tan Chah Sia. As the right-hand man in the company, CB was constantly in touch with customers and suppliers and gained valuable hands-on experience. In 1982, he assumed the role of Managing Director, and was assigned the responsibility of further developing the business by providing new direction.

In his role as the company’s chief steward, CB was also instrumental in steering the company from a small retailer to a leading provider of foodservice solutions in the region with Master Distributorship rights for more than 40 brands. CB’s passion for tableware and other kitchenware products has resulted in him being constantly on the lookout for innovative solutions to offer the commercial foodservice industry. Sourcing for new brands that provide Sia Huat’s customers with better value, CB is constantly flying to and attending one foodservice products exhibition after another.

Distinguished in the foodservice industry, CB encourages change and flexibility in this fast-paced business environment to keep ahead of the competition. He is the Honorary Secretary of the Singapore Association of Food Equipment Manufacturers and Suppliers (SAFEMS), as well as a member of the Singapore Chinaware Merchants Association (SCMA), Food & Beverage Managers Association (F&BMA) and Society of Professional Chefs (SPC).