Don Myung: Leading Innovation and Excellence in Manufacturing and Technology

APAC's 10 Most Influential Business Leaders, 2024

From his early days as a researcher to his current role as CEO of Texon Co., Ltd., Don Myung’s career is a testament to the power of vision, dedication, and relentless pursuit of excellence.

Guided by a passion for innovation and a commitment to transforming the manufacturing and technology sectors, Don has steered Texon to new heights, redefining industry standards through strategic planning and groundbreaking practices.

As he looks to the future, Don’s leadership continues to inspire and shape the next generation of industry leaders, driving progress and positive impact with every step.

From Researcher to CEO: A Visionary’s Path in Technology and Manufacturing

Don Myung’s journey in the technology and manufacturing sectors begins with a robust foundation in research and quality assurance. He started his career at a world-leading testing service company as a researcher. “This role allowed me to delve deep into the intricacies of testing methodologies and quality assurance,” he reflects, highlighting the critical importance of these elements in manufacturing and technology.

Transitioning from the testing services industry, Don stepped into the role of Director of Asia Pacific at a construction company. This move proves pivotal, exposing him to the complexities of large-scale project management and operations across a diverse and dynamic region.

“I was responsible for overseeing numerous projects, managing teams across different countries, and ensuring that we met our goals and deadlines,” he recounts, underscoring the significance of strategic planning and execution in achieving business success. This experience sharpened his leadership skills, preparing him for future challenges.

In 2021, Don joined Texon Co., Ltd., a high-tech OEM/ODM company specializing in semiconductor equipment, network switches, aerospace technologies, and energy storage solutions. As CEO, he guided the billion-dollar revenue company through significant growth and transformation.

“Texon’s unique approach to vertical integration, where we internalize raw materials and various parts such as Machining, Casting, Extrusion, plastics, PCBs, SMT, cables, cable harness and sheet metals, sets us apart from other contract manufacturers,” Don explains. This strategy positioned Texon as one of the most vertically integrated companies in the world, highlighting its innovative edge under his leadership.

Passion for Innovation Fuels Leadership in Manufacturing and Technology

Don Myung’s motivation to pursue a career in the manufacturing and technology sectors stemmed from a deep-seated passion for innovation and problem-solving, The dynamic nature of these industries and the opportunity to create cutting-edge solutions captivated him from the start. “My progression to a leadership position at Texon was driven by a desire to make a tangible impact on the industry and contribute to the advancement of technology,” he explains.

At Texon, Don collaborated with top experts to innovate. “Our focus on vertical integration has not only enhanced our operational efficiency but also allowed us to deliver superior quality products to our clients,” he notes. His career progression from researcher to CEO reflects his continuous pursuit of excellence and unwavering commitment to driving innovation in manufacturing and technology.

Shaping Leadership with Education and Experience in Business and Technology

Don Myung’s approach to leadership and management at Texon Co., Ltd. is profoundly influenced by his educational background, particularly his time at Stanford Graduate School of Business. “Stanford’s rigorous curriculum and emphasis on entrepreneurship and innovation provided me with the tools and knowledge to navigate the complexities of the business world,” Don says.

During his tenure at Stanford, Don benefited from mentorship by some of the most respected leaders in the industry. Their guidance shaped his leadership style, emphasizing the importance of empathy, strategic thinking, and resilience. “These mentors taught me that true leadership is not just about making decisions but about inspiring and empowering others to achieve their best,” he reflects.

Don’s leadership philosophy centers around the principles of innovation, integrity, and inclusivity. He believes a successful leader adapts to changing circumstances while staying true to core values. “At Texon, I strive to foster a culture of continuous improvement, where every team member is encouraged to think creatively and contribute their ideas,” he explains.

Don’s philosophy evolved through experiences in various roles and industries. In the testing services sector, he learned the importance of precision and attention to detail. In the construction industry, he gained insights into strategic planning and execution. Combining these lessons at Texon, Don created a leadership approach that is both visionary and pragmatic.

Innovation, Quality, and Sustainability Drive Leadership in Manufacturing and Technology

Don Myung’s decision-making process as a leader in the manufacturing and technology sectors is anchored by three core values: innovation, quality, and sustainability. Fostering a culture of innovation is a key strategy under Don’s leadership. “Innovation is at the heart of everything we do at Texon,” Don states. “We encourage our teams to think outside the box and come up with creative solutions to complex challenges.”

This focus on creativity has led to the development of several groundbreaking products and technologies, distinguishing Texon from its competitors and driving its success in the manufacturing and technology sectors.

Quality is another fundamental value guiding Texon’s decisions. The company maintains a relentless focus on quality assurance, ensuring that every product meets the highest standards of excellence. “This commitment to quality has earned us the trust of leading companies in the semiconductor, network switch, and aerospace industries,” Don explains.

Sustainability is a key consideration in Texon’s decision-making process. Recognizing the importance of minimizing environmental footprints, the company is committed to implementing sustainable practices across its operations. “We strive to reduce waste and promote environmental stewardship,” Don notes.

Turning Challenges into Opportunities for Growth and Innovation

Throughout his career, Don Myung has faced numerous challenges, each serving as an opportunity for growth and learning. A significant challenge arose during his tenure in the construction industry in the Asia Pacific region. “Managing diverse teams across different countries and ensuring that projects were completed on time and within budget required meticulous planning and effective communication,” he recalls, highlighting the complexities of the role.

At Texon, Don encountered the challenge of adapting to the rapidly changing technological landscape as the manufacturing and technology sectors are constantly evolving, demanding continuous innovation and agility. “We have overcome this challenge by investing in research and development, staying abreast of industry trends, and fostering a culture of continuous learning,” he explains. This proactive approach has enabled Texon to stay ahead of the curve, ensuring the company remains at the forefront of the industry.

Strategic Achievements Elevate Efficiency and Market Position

As CEO of Texon, Don is responsible for setting the company’s strategic direction, overseeing operations, and ensuring sustainable growth. Central to his leadership was the successful implementation of vertical integration at Texon and the significant growth the company realized in a short period.

The vertical integration strategy has notably improved Texon’s operational efficiency and strengthened its market position. It fortified Texon’s market standing and underscored the importance of strategic planning and innovation in achieving sustainable growth. This is also among Don’s proudest career achievements.

“By internalizing raw materials and various parts and processes, we have gained greater control over our supply chain, reduced our reliance on external suppliers, improved operational efficiency, mitigated risks, enhanced our ability to deliver high-quality products to our clients, and reduced costs,” Don explains. These achievements shaped his approach to leadership and management by reinforcing the importance of strategic planning, innovation, and teamwork.

Advanced Technologies and Client-Centric Initiatives Enhance Efficiency and Satisfaction

At Texon, Don Myung has spearheaded several innovative practices and initiatives aimed at improving client experience and operational efficiency. One notable initiative is the implementation of advanced manufacturing technologies, including automation and artificial intelligence. “These technologies have streamlined our production processes, reduced errors, and increased productivity,” Don explains.

Additionally, Texon has invested in building strong relationships with clients by understanding their needs and providing customized solutions. “This client-centric approach has resulted in high customer satisfaction and long-term partnerships with some of the leading companies in the semiconductor, network switch, and aerospace industries,” Don notes.

Commitment to Continuous Innovation Through Industry Engagement and R&D

Staying abreast of the latest trends and advancements in the manufacturing and technology sectors is essential for Don’s commitment to continuous innovation and improvement. “I make it a priority to attend industry conferences, participate in workshops, and engage with thought leaders and experts in the field,” he says.

Don also encourages his team to stay updated on industry developments and contribute new ideas. At Texon, a dedicated research and development team continuously explores new technologies and methodologies. “This team plays a critical role in keeping us at the forefront of innovation and ensuring that we are always ready to meet the evolving needs of our clients,” Don notes.

Achievements Showcase Expertise and Strengthen Industry Relationships

Among the standout success stories under Don Myung’s leadership is Texon’s collaboration with a leading semiconductor equipment company. Faced with a complex challenge, the company turned to Texon for a highly customized solution. “Our team worked closely with them to understand their requirements and developed an innovative solution that exceeded their expectations,” Don recounts. This project not only bolstered the client relationship but also highlighted Texon’s capabilities and expertise in the industry.

Another notable achievement involves Texon’s work with an aerospace company to develop advanced components for next-generation satellites. “Our innovative approach and commitment to quality have played a crucial role in the success of their projects,” Don explains. The aerospace company continues to rely on Texon as a trusted partner, underscoring the firm’s role in advancing cutting-edge technologies and reinforcing its industry standing.

Balancing Growth and Well-Being Through Strategic Goals and Self-Care

Don Myung’s current goals are centered on propelling Texon’s growth while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Professionally, he aims to expand Texon’s market presence, explore new opportunities for innovation, and reinforce the company’s status as a leading OEM/ODM firm.

On a personal level, Don prioritizes staying connected with his family and practicing self-care to ensure peak performance, reflecting his commitment to balancing personal well-being with professional responsibilities. Maintaining this balance can be challenging, but Don emphasizes the importance of setting clear boundaries and managing time effectively.

“Regular exercise, mindfulness practices, and spending quality time with loved ones helps me stay grounded and rejuvenated,” he notes. This holistic approach ensures that Don can contribute his best to both his professional endeavors and personal life.

Pioneering the Future of Manufacturing and Technology with Innovation and Sustainability

Texon’s focus on innovation, quality, and sustainability ensures its continued leadership in the evolving industry landscape. For the long term, Don’s goals for Texon are to foster innovation, expand market reach, and solidify the company’s position as an industry leader. He envisions a future where advanced automation, artificial intelligence, and sustainable practices drive the manufacturing and technology sectors.

“Texon will play a pivotal role in shaping this future by pioneering new technologies and methodologies that set industry standards,” Don asserts. “We plan to achieve this by investing in research and development, exploring new markets, and building strong partnerships with our clients and stakeholders.”

The company’s strategy will remain centered on delivering high-quality, innovative solutions that address the evolving needs of clients, reinforcing Texon’s commitment to excellence and leadership in the manufacturing and technology sectors.

Building a Legacy of Innovation and Integrity While Guiding Future Leaders

Don Myung aspires to leave a legacy characterized by innovation, integrity, and a positive impact. “I want to be remembered for my commitment to driving change, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, and empowering others to achieve their best,” he states. His goal is to inspire the next generation of leaders to embrace innovation, uphold their values, and make a meaningful difference in their industries.

For those aspiring to leadership roles, Don offers this advice: “Embrace innovation, stay resilient, and always be willing to learn.” He emphasizes that the business landscape is continuously evolving, requiring a steadfast commitment to self-improvement and adaptation.

Building strong relationships, fostering a collaborative culture, and adhering to core values are crucial for success. Don’s insights reflect a dedication to not only personal growth but also to nurturing future leaders who can navigate and shape the ever-changing business world.

Conclusion

Don Myung’s journey from a researcher to the CEO of Texon Co., Ltd. is defined by a relentless pursuit of excellence, a commitment to innovation, and a profound passion for the manufacturing and technology sectors. His strategic planning, innovative practices, and emphasis on quality and sustainability have driven significant growth and success at Texon. Looking forward, Don remains enthusiastic about the future, eager to embrace the opportunities for continued innovation and positive impact.