He may not have the memorable catchphrases or decades of experience of his predecessor Lim Swee Say, but in his short stint as labour chief, Mr Chan Chun Sing has won over many unionists with his sharp intellect, friendly demeanour and confidence on stage, said those interviewed yesterday.

Mr Chan, the National Trades Union Congress' (NTUC) secretary-general for three years, will be leaving in the coming months to focus on his new role as Trade and Industry Minister.