Although Bonnie Chong has only been the CEO of Anthony & Sylvan Pools for a year and a half, she is no stranger to the company. Chong began her career with the design and construction firm in 2018 as general counsel, quickly rising to the role of chief financial officer in 2020 and adding chief strategy officer to her resume in 2021.
“Bonnie has helped frame the company’s growth and expansion strategy, and five-year plan while guiding the company through unprecedented times at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said her colleagues. “As CEO, she is in a similar situation, ushering in a post-pandemic era with its challenges surrounding return-to-office, employee health, and navigating rising interest rates at the helm of an upmarket heritage brand.”
Throughout Chong’s tenure with Anthony & Sylvan Pools, the company’s CAGR for revenue was 17.6%, and her focus on creating a culture where a team has the right people who believe in themselves has led to a 43% increase in the workforce. As a result, she has been honored as a 2024 Diversity in Business honoree by the Philadelphia Business Journal. The firm has also been named one of the Philadelphia Inquirer’s Top Workplaces.
As the firm prepares to celebrate its next chapter of 80 years in business, Chong aims to bill Anthony & Sylvan Pools as a heritage brand – to be the name when someone thinks of backyard living.
“Bonnie is something of a diamond in the rough and handles being the CEO with respect, grace and passion,” said her staff. “Her primary goal, as a people leader, is to ensure that everyone – no matter their background – feels welcome and included.”
According to Chong, the most important attributes of a leader are agility and authenticity. “Both are critical in managing the business during certain and uncertain times and creating a work culture that is effective, productive, innovative and inclusive,” she said. If she had to name a superpower, it would be her capacity to juggle many balls in the air while staying cool, calm and collected most of the time.
Her cool and calm nature has helped to foster an employee culture that promotes growth and one that involves mentorship. Her easy-to-approach demeanor and open-door policy allow young (and mature) professionals to feel comfortable asking questions and consulting her for career advice,” said her colleagues. “Bonnie also understands that different backgrounds bring different knowledge to the table and therefore, make an organization stronger.”
Her advice to her younger self focuses on testing the limits. “Don’t be afraid to ask questions, push and test your limits, believe in your own potential and capabilities, and raise your hand when an opportunity presents itself,” said Chong.
