This is perhaps one of the hardest essays to write, and perhaps because I'm not always quite sure how to describe Alan and the multiple roles he plays in my life – former boss, sometimes shopping enabler, but always best friend and brother.
I've said it over and over again: my life changed because he took a chance on me and hired me for a contractor role at Yahoo all those years ago, when I wasn't at all articulate, wasn't quite sure what I would bring to the table, and was doubtful I deserved the role.
And I know I will not be alone when I say – Alan is the best manager one could have.
He showed me how to lead with humility, how to really listen to people, how to make them feel safe, and how to serve others so that someday, they'll pay it forward. He asks me all the tough questions, and like Marc, challenges my thinking and tells me in the nicest way possible to up my game.
I remember our conversation when he told me he was leaving Yahoo and starting Splice. While I was glad he'd get to do something he was truly passionate about, I was selfish and worried that he'd become just another former colleague and boss.
I was mistaken. After Yahoo, and up to this day, our friendship has seen my multiple moves, losing Marc, him getting a recreational pilot license, all the hobbies we've shared with each other, and all of life's tough questions like, "When do you feel most alive?" or "Is this something you'll remember on your deathbed?"
We sometimes talk about life's legacies too and what we will leave behind. His legacy is remarkable. Just ask anyone who's worked with him at Yahoo, or someone who's attended or is part of the Splice community, or those he's coached. Or have a chat with his and Bridgit's kids. They are some of the smartest people I know (and not just for their age).
For everything Alan has done for my professional career, he went above and beyond, and he and Bridgit have made me a part of their family -- they're who I refer to as my Singapore fam.
Once I asked him why he hired me when I wasn't the better version of me yet. Here's what he said:
"Saw an introvert who just wanted to keep her head down and do the work, and to do it with integrity. Someone who was accountable to herself first, and then others."
And when I lose my way or life throws curveballs, I read this and I find myself again. May we all be so lucky.