Roland Utama

About me

"Hi, I'm Roland— an engineer, entrepreneur and advisor with over 15 years of experience spanning academia, corporate life and entrepreneurship. An engineer by training, I earned a PhD in Solar Energy and have worked in both corporate and research environments. Early in my career, I helped establish Singapore’s first and only solar panel manufacturing facility at REC Singapore and later worked with SERIS at NUS in research commercialisation. In 2012, I took the leap into entrepreneurship and built businesses in a completely new industry—craft beer—spanning import and distribution, restaurants and bars, retail and e-commerce. Along the way, I've experienced both the rewards and trials of building a business: making difficult decisions, dealing with uncertainty, and navigating setbacks and changes. I enjoy helping young people think through the choices ahead—not by telling them what to do, but by listening to their aspirations, asking questions and offering perspectives that may help them find their own path with greater clarity and conviction."

I'm interested in Business and Enterprise, Digital and Technology, Economy and Finance, Education and Career, Family and Relationships, Global Affairs, Green Environment, Mental Well-being, Policy, Law and Governance, Social Cohesion, Sports and Physical Well-being and Volunteer and Philanthropy .

I've worked in Energy and Power, Food Services, Retail and Wholesale Trade.

Education

Doctoral Degree (PhD)