With over 30 years of corporate training experience and more than 10,000 professionals trained, Dr Maxine Teo is a cornerstone of Singapore’s people development landscape.
As Managing Director of Global Max Academy and author of the acclaimed Secret Manual book series, she integrates psychology, sales strategy, and leadership development into powerful programs for future-ready transformation.
In this SG60 Showcase feature, Dr Maxine reveals how emotional intelligence, inclusive leadership, and resilience aren’t just buzzwords—they’re strategic imperatives. From transforming the Singapore Police Force to mentoring entrepreneurs, she brings depth, dynamism, and deep expertise to every conversation.
Read on to see how she’s powering Singapore’s progress, one breakthrough at a time.
Highlights
Training a More Resilient and Cohesive Public Service
Q: Can you share a program you led that significantly contributed to Singapore’s development?
A: One of my proudest initiatives is Raise Your EQ with Good People Skills, developed for the Singapore Police Force (SPF). This program was crafted to enhance emotional intelligence across both uniformed and non-uniformed staff, strengthening interpersonal communication, conflict resolution, and stress management.
The training was delivered in two formats: in-person workshops and virtual modules. The workshops used real-time role-playing and personalized feedback, while the digital version included quizzes, videos, and case studies for self-paced learning. Feedback has shown a marked improvement in emotional resilience and collaboration within SPF—a clear step toward a more resilient, cohesive public service culture.
Q: What makes your contribution especially relevant to Singapore’s future?
A: My approach blends leadership psychology with practical strategies, supporting Singapore’s national focus on adaptability, cohesion, and global competitiveness. I help organizations build high-performance cultures by addressing self-limiting beliefs, fostering emotional intelligence, and nurturing inclusive, multi-generational leadership. With my Doctorate in Psychology and deep industry exposure, I offer not just training, but transformation.
Q: Which organizations have you impacted recently?
A: I’ve worked with over 30 major Singapore-based institutions, including DBS, Singtel, STB, NTUC Income, SPF, ACRA, MOH, and Enterprise Singapore. Whether it’s a financial institution or a healthcare agency, my mission remains the same—building happy, high-performing people.
Signature Programs for a Stronger, Smarter Workforce
Q: What are your signature programs, and how do they align with national goals?
A: My top three programs are:
- SALES: Selling in the New World—a future-focused course on influencing, value-creation, and relationship-based selling.
- DIVERSE: Leading and Managing a Multi-Generation Workforce—vital for today’s age-diverse teams.
- REFRAME: Building Resilience to Thrive in Challenging Times—a timely program that draws on neuroscience and psychology to build sustainable mental fitness.
Each program supports Singapore’s priorities in workforce resilience, leadership development, and inclusive growth.
Q: What sets you apart from others in your field?
A: I combine evidence-based psychology with practical frameworks. Tools like True Colors and Belbin Team Profiling allow me to tailor each session. I also speak three languages—English, Mandarin, and Cantonese—so I can connect with diverse audiences across Asia. My sessions are known for their high energy, interactivity, and real-life storytelling that leaves a lasting impact.
Q: How do you stay at the forefront of your craft?
A: I actively attend international conferences, engage in research, and co-create with other industry leaders. I also continuously update my programs with participant feedback and current findings in behavioral science. My goal is not just to inform, but to ignite growth, inside and out.
Final Thoughts: Empowering People to Power Singapore
Dr Maxine Teo represents what Singapore’s next era of leadership looks like—smart, emotionally attuned, and unafraid to evolve. Her commitment to equipping others with the tools to lead, sell, and thrive ensures that resilience isn’t just taught—it’s lived. In a fast-moving world, she’s a steady force of clarity and impact.
Highlights
This article is part of the SG60 Showcase series—spotlighting leaders, changemakers, and visionaries shaping Singapore’s next 60 years. Stay tuned for more!
Read the Chinese article here, or listen to the podcast here.
