Looking to hire a panel moderator in Singapore for your conference, fireside chat, or corporate forum?
Emcee Lester Leo is one of Singapore’s most experienced panel moderators. He has moderated panels across an exceptionally wide range of industries and topics, including healthcare and pharmaceuticals, technology and artificial intelligence, finance and investment, sustainability, data centres, the legal sector, the museum and cultural sector, professional photography, and more.
He has facilitated discussions with the Chief Justice, C-suite executives, medical professors, global investors, and industry leaders.
Whether you need a moderator for a formal conference panel, a fireside chat, an executive roundtable, a Q&A session, or a dialogue with senior government officials, Lester brings the preparation, credibility, and presence that makes the conversation worth having.
As a founder of three Singapore startups, Lester brings an operator’s perspective to every panel he moderates.
He holds a Bachelor of Business Management (Finance) from Singapore Management University, which further strengthens his ability to engage confidently in finance and business-related discussions.
This experience enables him to ask more informed and incisive questions, drawing out insights that reflect how decisions are actually made in fast-moving business environments.
He understands the business context behind the answers, allowing him to move beyond generic responses and surface the real decision-making logic, constraints, and trade-offs that shape outcomes.
On top of being able to emcee the event, Professional Emcee Lester Leo is able to play the role of an event panel moderator for conferences and seminars.
In his role as an emcee, Lester has hosted local and foreign high level Ministers and C-suite executives.
His portfolio includes high level business events with VVIPs.
Why Hire a Panel Moderator in Singapore?
Why is Lester suitable to moderate your business event panel conversation or fireside chat?
Lester graduated from Singapore Management University in 2010 with a degree in Business Management, majoring in Finance.
He is passionate about business and tech, having founded three tech startup companies. One of his companies received the SPRING Singapore YES! Startup of $50k. You can read more here about his first and second startup.
Lester was also part of the 2022 founder program (exploring web3.0 businesses) of Antler, a global early-stage venture capital firm that invests in the defining technology companies of tomorrow.
He is also well versed in Crypto and NFTs, having been in the blockchain space and trading since 2017.
Panel Moderation Experience Across Industries
Lester has also moderated panel discussions and conversations for many other types of events.
This includes lifestyle events, cosmetics and skincare events, health events, tech events, media events, sports events, real estate events and more.
Pharma panel moderator – Pfizer Prevenar PCV20 Vaccine Launch Event
I moderated the panel for Pfizer on “Fireside Chat with the Experts: Strengthening the Defense Against IPD,” which focused on addressing the unmet needs in combating pneumococcal disease and enhancing vaccination coverage through PCV20.
The discussion explored the global and local burden of pneumococcal disease, updates on PCV20 usage in the US and Singapore, and strategies to improve public health.
The panel conversation included insights on the expansion of PCV20’s indication to include pediatric populations, the latest vaccination subsidy schemes for adults in Singapore, and best practices to build confidence among healthcare professionals in pneumococcal vaccination.
The panellists are:
- Prof Philip Eng, Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre
- Prof Anne Goh, KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital
- Prof Jana Shaw, Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital, Syracuse, NY, USA
- Dr Leong Choon Kit, Mission Medical Clinic
- Dr Yung Chee Fu, KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital
Healthcare & tech panel moderator – Johnson & Johnson JLabs Asia Pacific CEO Summit
I moderated this panel for Johnson & Johnson JLabs on “The Future of Asia Pacific: Innovations and Collaborations,” which delved into the region’s potential amidst rapid technological advancements and global shifts.
The discussion emphasized the rising influence of passionate innovators and the growing support from global collaborators, offering reassurance amidst transformative changes.
Key insights included exploring the unique strengths of sites like Shanghai, Singapore, and Korea, highlighting their roles in driving regional growth and shaping the future of the industry.
The panellists are:
- Sophie Shen, PhD, CFA, Head of JLABS Shanghai
- Alessandro Falcone, MD, Head of JLABS Singapore
- John Choi, Head of JLABS Korea
Corporate business panel moderator – Konica Minolta Print Industry Forum
I moderated this panel for Konica Minolta on “Taking Our Print Business Beyond 2030,” which explored how print businesses can adapt to an evolving industry marked by intense competition, shifting market dynamics, and unprecedented margin pressures.
The discussion highlighted the growing demand for versatility, creativity, and efficiency in driving sustainable success.
The panellists are:
- Aaron Lim, Managing Director, Refine Printing
- Eric Lim, General Manager, Union Label Industries
- Kelvin Yeoh, Head of Sales, Professional Printing, Konica Minolta Asia
- Eddie Chua, Manager, Industrial & Production Printing, Konica Minolta Singapore
Insurance & lifestyle panel moderator – AIA District Kick-Off, Bali
I moderated a panel session in Bali, Indonesia, with AIA’s Global Ambassador and changemaker, Melati Wijsen, as part of AIA’s Districk Kick-off, which focused on the theme “Be 1% Better” and “Make A Difference.“
The session explored Melati’s journey as a changemaker, highlighting her insights on starting young, fostering community collaboration, and the power of storytelling in driving impactful initiatives. Discussions also touched on overcoming challenges, balancing passion with practicality, and her inspiration behind her book Change Starts Now.
The event emphasised personal, professional, and financial growth, inspiring attendees to take action towards making a positive difference.
Finance webinar moderator “Start Early, Grow Steadily: Investing 101 for Young Adults”
I moderated the MoneySense webinar, a joint initiative by MAS and CPF Board, held as part of Global Money Week, engaging young working adults and aspiring investors on the fundamentals of investing.
The session focused on three key areas: getting started with investing, understanding personal risk appetite, and building a balanced portfolio through diversification.
The discussion highlighted one of the most important advantages young investors have, that of time. Through the power of compounding, even small and consistent contributions can grow significantly over the long term, reinforcing the principle that time in the market often outweighs timing the market.
The panel also explored how CPF can be reframed beyond a retirement tool, positioning it as a risk-free financial foundation that supports broader investment strategies, including opportunities under CPFIS.
The panellists are:
- Shawn Lee, CFP, VP of Financial Planning Literacy, DBS Bank
- Thomas Chua, Founder, Steady Compounding
- Dorcas Low, Deputy Investment Director, CPF Board
Health & wellness panel moderator – Young Living Metabolic Syndrome Symposium
I moderated the panel discussion for Young Living on “What’s the Role of Science vs. TCM Perspectives When Dealing with Metabolic Syndrome,” which explored the holistic approach of metabolic activation to enhance overall health and well-being.
Discussions included the role of natural interventions, lifestyle changes, and cutting-edge research, with an emphasis on integrating scientific and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspectives.
The panellists are:
- Dr Mark Bartlett Ph.D., PhD In Immunology & Cell Biology, Vice President of Science and Development
- Dr Heng Kiang Soon, PhD, PhD in Nutritional Science, Lecturer, School of Applied Science, Republic Polytechnic
- Physician Sue Wan, Registered TCM Physician BSc, BMed, (Chinese Medicine), TCM Consultant Physician & Practitioner
Financial services fireside chat moderator – Great Eastern Career Seminar
I moderated a fireside chat and panel as part of the Great Eastern Career Seminar.
The fireside chat featured Bryan Lim, Associate Director of GE, where we explored what it takes to excel in financial insurance sales.
The financial panel discussion brought together Bryan Lim, Joel Tan, AVP of Distribution Alliance & Events, and Tan Soon Chye, Head of Manpower Development at Great Eastern.
Together, they shared valuable insights on building a successful career in financial sales as a Great Eastern Financial Representative.
Data centre & sustainability panel moderator – ST Telemedia Global Data Centres Learning Day
I moderated a panel discussion for ST Telemedia Global Data Centres on “The Future of Innovation and Sustainable Practices in the Data Centre Industry,” which aimed to explore current advancements, future opportunities, and challenges within this rapidly evolving sector.
The panellists are:
- Teong Chuan Yeo, Head, Research & Development STT GDC
- Sharmel Ali, Head, Group ESG STT GDC
- Elizabeth Lin, Director, Business Development, SEA STT GDC
AI Tech Panel Roundtable Moderator – Adobe Reimagining Document Intelligence in the AI Era Roundtable
I moderated a closed-door executive roundtable for Adobe in Singapore, bringing together senior enterprise leaders from different industries and functions to discuss AI adoption and document workflow challenges.
I led the pain point discovery segment, drawing out how each organisation currently uses AI, where document workflows remain manual, how multi-language documentation is managed across borders, and what concerns exist around data security, compliance, and AI governance.
The session covered enterprise concerns around data residency, AI hallucinations, and the governance gaps slowing AI from scaling beyond individual use into core business workflows.
Low-Code No-code Tech Executive Dinner Moderator – OutSystems Singapore
I moderated an intimate executive dinner for OutSystems in Singapore, bringing together technology and business leaders to explore how high-performance low-code is reshaping enterprise software delivery.
The evening opened with a presentation covering the rapid growth of the low-code market and how the platform enables organisations to build critical, scalable applications at speed.
Over a three-course dinner, I facilitated roundtable discussions across multiple tables, using curated fun facts as conversation starters to draw out perspectives on citizen development, the evolution of Gartner’s analyst landscape for application platforms, and real-world low-code adoption across Singapore’s enterprise environment.
Lifestyle & skincare panel moderator – Eau Thermale Avène Anti-Ageing Derma Workshop
I moderated a dialogue session for Eau Thermale Avène on “Anti-Aging Myths and Tips.”
Key insights included discussing the causes of skin aging, the importance of early prevention, and how hydration plays a key role in maintaining youthful skin.
The session emphasized the significance of a consistent skincare routine and how early prevention can help slow down the aging process.
The discussion also covered how to select the right products based on individual skin needs.
The panellists are:
- Dr Magdalene Liau from the Chelsea Clinic
- Beauty Blogger Evonne
Financial services fireside chat moderator – Great Eastern Career Recruitment Seminar
I moderated a fireside chat and panel as part of the Great Eastern Recruitment Seminar.
The session featured a fireside chat with Associate Director Luke Yap and Senior Financial Consultant Cheryl Lim, exploring what it takes to build a meaningful and disciplined career as a Great Eastern Financial Representative.
The financial panel discussion brought together Luke Yap, Cheryl Lim, Joel Tan, AVP of Distribution Alliance & Events, and Tan Soon Chye, Head of Manpower Development at Great Eastern, following their respective presentations on why Great Eastern is the Financial Institution of choice.
Government & legal dialogue facilitator – Family Justice Courts Workplan with Chief Justice
I facilitated the dialogue as part of the Family Justice Courts workplan.
The panellists are:
- The Honourable the Chief Justice Sundaresh Menon
- Justice Teh Hwee Hwee, Presiding Judge of the Family Justice Courts
Government & legal dialogue facilitator – Family Justice Courts Workplan with Chief Justice, Presiding Judge of FJC
I facilitated the dialogue as part of the Family Justice Courts workplan.
The panellists are:
- The Honourable the Chief Justice Sundaresh Menon
- Justice Teh Hwee Hwee, Presiding Judge of the Family Justice Courts
- Chia Wee Kiat, Deputy Presiding Judge of the Family Justice Courts
- Kenneth Yap, Registrar of the Family Justice Courts
Healthcare AI conference moderator – HIMSS Executive Roundtable Singapore
I moderated the HIMSS Executive Roundtable, which brought together senior leaders from across Singapore’s healthcare ecosystem, spanning public institutions to private providers.
The session explored one of the most defining shifts in modern healthcare: the integration of Artificial Intelligence across both clinical and operational workflows.
Discussions focused on how AI can enhance decision-making, streamline processes, and ultimately improve patient outcomes, while addressing key considerations around governance, adoption, and workforce readiness.
Education & culture panel moderator – ICOM CECA Annual Conference
I facilitated an engaging panel discussion on the evolving role of museums in education and community empowerment.
The session explored how digital access can expand learning opportunities and empower audiences, while also addressing innovative ways to engage underserved communities and promote lifelong learning.
The panellists are:
- Dr Aidan Wong, Assistant Professor of Urban Studies (Education), College of Integrative Studies, Singapore Management University and Deputy Director, Wee Kim Wee Centre
- Claire Bown, Founder of Thinking Museum
Photography & lifestyle panel moderator – Nikon FX Experience Event
I moderated this panel session for Nikon with their professional photographers.
The session provided diverse perspectives and valuable insights, highlighting the various aspects of professional photography, from wildlife and wedding photography to underwater and landscape photography.
It was an engaging discussion that showcased the expertise and unique experiences of each photographer in their respective fields.
The panellists are:
- Chris McLennan, Nikon New Zealand Ambassador
- Alex Soh, Nikon Professional Photographer
- Bryan Foong, Nikon Professional Photographer
- Imran Ahmad, Nikon Professional Photographer
Government health panel moderator – Healthier SG Community Roadshow
I moderated a Q&A session at the Healthier SG event, where the discussion focused on the importance of exercise and the support available for individuals on their wellness journeys.
Key insights included practical advice on how to incorporate exercise into daily routines, even with a busy schedule, and how Active Health programs can assist individuals, particularly those with chronic conditions, in maintaining their health.
The conversation emphasized the importance of community engagement and how tailored programs can help individuals take ownership of their health and well-being.
The panellists are:
- Dr Fadzil Hamzah, Senior Staff Registrar, Sport and Exercise Medicine
Changi General Hospital, Singapore - Dr Shannon Chia, Programme Design & Development lead, Sport Singapore
Arts, education & heritage panel moderator – International Museum Day Symposium
I moderated this dialogue as part of the International Museum Day Symposium, where we explored the theme “Museums, Education and Research.”
The discussion featured Professor Tan Tai Yong, President of the Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS) and Chairman of the Institute of South Asian Studies, who provided valuable insights into how museums play a key role in education and research, highlighting their evolving impact on society.
I guided the conversation, facilitating an engaging dialogue on the important role museums play in shaping learning and research.
What Makes a Great Panel Moderator in Singapore?
Panel moderation is a distinct skill from emceeing. An emcee manages a programme. A moderator shapes a conversation. The two require different preparation, different instincts, and different abilities in the moment.
Here is what Lester brings to every panel moderation engagement:
- Deep preparation: Lester researches every panel topic before the event, reading briefing materials, understanding the key debates in the space, and formulating questions that go beyond the surface. Panellists and audiences notice when a moderator has done the work.
- Subject breadth across industries: Lester has moderated panels in healthcare, technology, finance, sustainability, legal affairs, culture, media, and consumer industries. His business and finance education from Singapore Management University and his background as a technology founder give him genuine grounding across multiple domains.
- The ability to read the room and the panel: A good moderator knows when to push a panellist for more depth, when to redirect a tangent, when to bring in a quieter voice, and when to let a productive exchange run. Lester has moderated enough high-stakes panels to do all of this instinctively.
- Credibility with expert audiences: When the panellists include medical professors, chief justices, or C-suite executives, the moderator must carry authority in the room. Lester has facilitated panels at this level across multiple industries and is trusted by organisations to represent them professionally in front of their most important audiences.
- Time management under pressure: Conferences run on tight schedules. A moderator who cannot keep a panel on time creates problems for everything that follows. Lester manages panel timing firmly and diplomatically, keeping the conversation rich without letting it overrun.
Health & longevity panel moderator – Anti-Ageing Wellness Symposium Singapore
I moderated a health anti-aging panel examining the multifaceted dimensions of health and wellness.
The discussion transcended conventional guidance on nutrition, exercise, and sleep. It also explored how emerging research, environmental factors, and personalized lifestyle strategies influence the ageing process.
The panel provided practical and scientific insights into the key factors that support healthy ageing, longevity, and overall well-being, offering a holistic understanding of what it truly takes to age well and maintain optimal health.
Heritage fireside chat moderator – International Museum Day 2025, Singapore Navy Museum
I moderated a fireside chat with Ong Chin Bok, Senior Volunteer and Coordinator at the Navy Museum, as part of International Museum Day Symposium.
His session highlighted ongoing efforts to preserve naval heritage at the Singapore Navy Museum and foster public engagement through storytelling and education.
It also shed light on the important role of senior volunteers in keeping history alive, bridging generations and inspiring others to contribute to Singapore’s heritage community.
Insurance and Personal Finance Panel Moderator – Great Eastern Career Seminar
I moderated a career sharing session, From Habits to High Performance, featuring representatives from Great Eastern, where the conversation explored the realities, challenges, and opportunities within the financial services industry.
The session provided an inside look into career transitions, with panellists sharing their journeys from diverse backgrounds, from sports science to healthcare, and the motivations behind stepping into a purpose-driven, client-centric profession.
The discussion covered key themes such as overcoming self-doubt, building discipline in a self-employed environment, and developing resilience in the face of rejection. Both speakers emphasised the importance of consistency, structure, and focusing on income-generating activities to build a sustainable business.
The conversation also explored practical aspects of the profession, including:
- Building a client base through both warm and cold markets
- Approaching objections with an education-first mindset
- The importance of trust, authenticity, and long-term relationship building
- Leveraging mentorship, structured training, and platforms provided by the organisation
Beyond technical skills, the session underscored the role of discipline and mindset, showing up consistently, staying grounded in one’s “why,” and treating the career as a long-term business rather than a short-term pursuit.
The panellists are:
- Luke Yap, Associate Director, Great Eastern
- Cheryl Lim, Financial Representative, Great Eastern
Government & media panel moderator – IMDA Awards Ceremony Scholar Panel
I moderated this panel as part of the IMDA Awards Ceremony, featuring IMDA scholars.
The panel shared their academic and professional journeys, with each offering insights into their fields.
The panellists are the IMDA scholars:
- 2015 MES Scholar: Low Ser En, Associate Producer, mm2; MArt (Producing), National Film and TV School
- 2013 NIS Scholar: Tan Shi Hui, Architect, Singtel; MSc (Advanced Design Informatics), UCL
- 2017 NCPS Scholar: Tok Yee Ching, Threat Hunter, MWR InfoSecurity; MSc (Information Security), Royal Holloway, UOL
Celebrity & media panel moderator – NHK Tokyo Eye 2020 Singapore Launch
I moderated a session at the Tokyo Eye 2020 launch for Japanese broadcaster NHK, where Singapore celebrity Michelle Chong shared her experience filming with NHK for the show.
Michelle discussed her episodes, “Aged Foods: A New Tokyo Trend” and “Must-See Tokyo Museums,” providing insights into Tokyo’s culinary and cultural landscapes.
She talked about exploring aged foods like aged chicken sashimi and soba, as well as visiting unique museums, including the Bonsai Museum and the National Museum of Western Art.
Entertainment & Hallyu panel moderator – Korea Brand & Entertainment Expo Singapore
I hosted a talk session with Korean actress Song Ji Hyo as part of the 2018 Korea Brand & Entertainment Expo (KBEE) in Singapore, the largest overseas Hallyu exposition.
The session focused on Song Ji Hyo’s experiences in the entertainment industry, her journey as an actress, and her reflections on the global influence of Korean culture.
Discussions highlighted the impact of Hallyu in fostering cultural connections, the evolution of K-dramas and their role in promoting Korean culture, and how international audiences shape the entertainment landscape.
The event exemplified the spirit of KBEE in strengthening cultural ties and celebrating the dynamic world of Korean entertainment.
Healthcare inclusivity panel moderator – Singapore Health Awards 2022
I moderated the panel discussion “Plenary Discussion: Inclusivity in Health” as part of the Singapore Health Award 2022, which focused on promoting inclusivity in the healthcare system.
Discussions covered the importance of diverse representation in healthcare, accessibility for all demographics, and strategies for ensuring equal healthcare opportunities.
The takeaways emphasized creating more inclusive health policies and fostering collaboration across different sectors to address health disparities.
- Dr Jared Ng, Adjunct Assistant Professor, Duke-NUS and LKC-NTU, Chief of Department (Emergency and Crisis Care), and Senior Consultant Psychiatrist, Institute of Mental Health
- Nurliza Mohd Shah, Principal, Enfant Educare Pte Ltd
- Justina Tan, Managing Director, People, Changi Airport Group Singapore
- David Tan, Capability Developer, Health Ambassador, HPB
Entertainment & celebrity panel moderator –-Kim Kibum Press Conference Singapore
I moderated a QnA at the press conference for Korean actor, singer, former Super Junior member, Kim Kibum, where he shared insights on his career and upcoming projects.
Discussions centered around:
His first visit to Singapore, where he expressed excitement about trying local specialties like chili crab and experiencing the city’s famous landmarks. He also mentioned the influence of fellow Korean actors who had shared their positive experiences in Singapore.
His language abilities, highlighting his experience living in the States and his current efforts to learn Chinese for his role in a Chinese drama. He ranked his English and Chinese skills and discussed how language plays a part in his acting.
Key takeaways included his passion for exploring diverse roles and his dedication to building connections with fans across different countries.
Sports & healthcare panel moderator – Parkway Health Tennis Legend Talk Session
I moderated a talk set for Parkway Health with tennis legend and Grand Slam champion Mary Pierce, where she shared insights into her career and life experiences.
Discussions covered:
Her first visit to Singapore, where she expressed her love for the local attractions and food, mentioning chili crab as a particular favorite.
Reflections on her tennis career, including her journey to the French Open finals at 19 and how she managed to defeat world no. 1 Steffi Graf on her rise to success.
Her motivation behind choosing to represent France despite her diverse background, and the most significant moments in her career, including her proudest achievements and the challenges she faced overcoming injuries.
Key insights included her commitment to the sport, how she managed the physical demands of her career, and her ongoing passion for tennis.
Sustainability & ESG panel moderator – DB Schenker Sustainability Forum Singapore
I moderated a Q&A session at DB Schenker‘s first Sustainability Forum with Farizan d’Avezac De Moran, Senior Partner at GreenA Consultants.
The session delved into global sustainability trends, the path towards a net-zero Singapore, and best practices for companies embarking on their sustainability journey.
The conversation emphasized the importance of monitoring sustainability efforts and highlighted available grants for businesses to leverage as they adopt sustainable practices.
It also underscored the need for collective action across industries to achieve significant environmental impact.
Types of Panel Moderation and Facilitation Lester Handles in Singapore
Lester moderates and facilitates a wide range of discussion formats, including:
- Conference panel discussions with multiple speakers
- Fireside chats with a single featured speaker or guest
- Executive roundtables and C-suite leadership discussions
- Q&A sessions following keynote presentations
- Ministerial and high level government dialogues
- Healthcare and pharmaceutical expert panels
- Technology and innovation panels
- Investment and finance panels with institutional stakeholders
- Sustainability and ESG discussion panels
- Legal and judicial dialogue sessions
- Cultural, museum, and arts sector panels
- Media and lifestyle discussion panels
- Consumer brand and product expert panels
- Academic and research symposium discussions
- Hybrid and virtual panel sessions
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a panel moderator do at an event in Singapore?
A panel moderator facilitates a structured discussion between multiple speakers or a featured guest. Their role includes preparing intelligent questions in advance, introducing the panellists, guiding the conversation through the planned topics, managing speaking time, drawing out insights from quieter voices, keeping dominant speakers in check, handling audience questions, and bringing the discussion to a clear and meaningful conclusion on time. Lester Leo has moderated panels across healthcare, technology, finance, legal affairs, sustainability, and more in Singapore.
What is the difference between a panel moderator and an emcee?
An emcee manages the overall flow and energy of an event, hosting multiple segments and keeping the programme running. A panel moderator has a more focused role: facilitating a specific conversation or discussion, asking questions, and shaping the intellectual content of a panel session. The skills required are different. An emcee needs energy, timing, and crowd management. A moderator needs preparation, subject knowledge, and the ability to guide expert-level conversations. Lester is experienced in both roles and often combines them at the same event.
What industries has Lester Leo moderated panels for in Singapore?
Lester has moderated panels across an exceptionally wide range of industries in Singapore, including healthcare and pharmaceuticals, technology and artificial intelligence, finance and investment, sustainability and ESG, data centres, the legal sector, the museum and cultural sector, media, consumer brands, professional photography, and more. He has facilitated discussions with Chief Justices, C-suite executives, medical professors, global investors, and senior government officials.
Can Lester moderate a fireside chat in Singapore?
Yes. Fireside chats are one of the most common formats Lester moderates. He has hosted fireside chats with senior financial services leaders, global ambassadors, technology executives, and other high-profile guests. A successful fireside chat requires a moderator who can ask genuinely interesting questions, follow the conversation naturally, and make the guest feel comfortable enough to speak candidly. Lester brings all of this to every fireside chat he hosts.
Can Lester moderate a panel that involves senior government officials or judges in Singapore?
Yes. Lester has facilitated a dialogue with Chief Justice Sundaresh Menon and Presiding Judge Justice Teh Hwee Hwee at the Family Justice Courts workplan event. He is experienced in the formality and gravitas required when moderating sessions that involve the judiciary, senior government officials, or ministerial-level guests.
Can Lester moderate panels on technical or specialised topics?
Yes. Lester prepares thoroughly for every panel he moderates, including technical and specialised topics. He has moderated panels on artificial intelligence in healthcare, pneumococcal disease and vaccination, the future of data centres, print industry transformation, blockchain and digital assets, metabolic syndrome from both scientific and TCM perspectives, and more. His business and technology background, combined with his research-first approach, means he can engage credibly with expert panellists across complex topics.
Can Lester moderate both physical and virtual panel discussions?
Yes. Lester has moderated panel discussions in physical, virtual, and hybrid formats. Virtual and hybrid moderation requires additional management of online audience questions, platform logistics, and the challenge of building rapport with panellists who may be joining remotely. Lester handles all of these elements professionally.
What is the difference between a panel discussion, a fireside chat, and an executive roundtable?
A panel discussion typically involves three to six speakers discussing a topic from different perspectives, with a moderator guiding the conversation. A fireside chat is a more informal one-on-one or small-group conversation between the moderator and a featured guest, designed to feel more candid and personal. An executive roundtable is a smaller, more intimate format where senior leaders discuss issues among themselves, with the moderator facilitating rather than leading. Lester is experienced in all three formats.
How far in advance should I engage a panel moderator in Singapore?
It is recommended to engage your panel moderator at least four to six weeks before the event, and earlier for high-profile or complex panels. Early engagement gives Lester time to research the topic thoroughly, review briefing materials, coordinate with panellists, and prepare a strong set of questions tailored to your event objectives.
Can Lester both emcee an event and moderate a panel at the same event?
Yes. This is one of Lester’s most common engagements. He frequently serves as both the event emcee and the panel moderator at conferences, seminars, and forums in Singapore. Having a single person in both roles ensures consistency of tone and flow throughout the event, and reduces the logistical complexity of managing two separate hosts.
How do I book a panel moderator for my event in Singapore?
You can contact Lester directly via WhatsApp at +65 8163 2525, email lester@emceelester.com, or through your events company.
About Panel Moderator and Emcee Lester Leo
Lester Leo is a bilingual professional emcee and panel moderator based in Singapore with over 15 years of experience and more than 2,000 events hosted.
Panel moderation is one of his most active and specialised services, with engagements spanning healthcare, technology, finance, sustainability, legal affairs, and more.
He holds a Business Management degree from Singapore Management University majoring in Finance, has founded three technology startups, was part of the Antler venture capital founder programme, and has been active in the blockchain and digital assets space since 2017.
This breadth of knowledge and experience gives him the intellectual range to moderate panels across almost any industry with genuine credibility.
LIVELY (L), ENGAGING (E), OUTSTANDING (O), Lester LEO is the key ingredient in your perfect event recipe.
That is a guarantee.
Here are some clients that Lester has moderated for:
Planning a conference panel, fireside chat, executive roundtable, or expert dialogue in Singapore?
To engage panel moderator Lester for your event in Singapore, inform your preferred events company, or you can contact him below.
Phone: (65) 8163 2525
Email: lester@emceelester.com