Dock & Talk: Nguyen Trung Dung on what it really means to succeed
Life in business comes with many obstacles when building a brand from scratch. At the latest edition of Dock & Talk, held at KLU’s Saigon campus, Prof. Andreas Kaplan welcomed Nguyen Trung Dung, CEO of DH Foods – one of the leading manufacturers and exporters of natural, high-quality spices, dipping salts, and sauces – for a conversation about leadership, sustainable business, and the importance of staying positive even during difficult times.
Poland and European Football
Nguyen Trung Dung went to Poland to study in the early 1990s, a time when studying abroad was considered a prestigious endeavor in Vietnam. Although Poland was also going through a difficult period, this did not take away people’s positivity. This first European experience introduced Nguyen Trung Dung to European football, and it left a strong impression on him. His favorite team, Manchester United, became an inspiration. Their spirit of never giving up, he explained, is also the spirit of entrepreneurship.
Business Attempts and Failures
During his time in Poland, Nguyen realized his first attempt of building his own business. One of his earliest business lessons was to keep it separated from friendships. Another big learning came from a later business attempt, which was successful at first. Many people believe that making good money will automatically bring happiness. However, after years of working long hours, Nguyen realized that he had burned out. he emphasized that being burned out while still young is not something to be proud of; it is rather something to avoid. He no longer wanted to sacrifice himself just for money.
After many attempts and failures, Nguyen managed to build successful businesses. After spending 30 years in Poland, he returned to Vietnam and started DH Foods, a company that produces Vietnamese flavours. Over time, it became a project that brought him not only success but also pride and happiness.
The knowledge, experience, and wisdom he brought back to Vietnam are now also things he passes on to younger generations.
A Safe Environment for Workers
For DH Foods, one of the most important priorities is creating a safe and welcoming environment for employees. Nguyen strongly thinks that the workplace should feel like home. His company provides a kitchen with everything employees might need: coffee machines, rice cookers, microwaves, air fryers, and refrigerators filled with food. Employees can have breakfast there, eat dinner, or stay late if they want to. The concept is simple: if employees truly feel the company is their second home, they will contribute willingly and joyfully.
Redefining Success
The discussion ended on a simple but powerful note: success means waking up every day and still feeling happy to go to work.
Excitement, positivity, and self-discipline are what help people along the way. For Nguyen Trung Dung, entrepreneurship is not only about building a successful business. It is also about building a life that remains meaningful, healthy, and joyful.
