I've been reading this thread abit. Myself, I am working in a bank for about 5 years and earning a very decent salary.

My dad who is in his 50s have been working for a factory in the western part of SG for 30years, currently a Director and head of production. The factory hires about 200 staff and is one of the major production plant for the group's business in Asia. Won't reveal exactly the products manufactured but it is in the food line. Very high up in the value chain. Very basic products.

80% output goes out back to home country for further production. 20% is sold locally in SG.

5 years ago, a couple of local firms approached my Dad to ask for a larger share of supply. Also asked my Dad to start a separate company to help supply the basic goods to help some of the local firms in their expanding Asia food business.

Dad was worried that he will lose his job as starting another company may clash with his director responsibilities. Parent company also did not want SG company to be supplying too much to companies outside the group. This stance has been relaxed recently. I asked my dad if I could setup a company to buy output and sell to his network of clients. He felt uncomfortable as his staff may find out. So in the end, he gave the business to a long time friend of his. Understand that the business took off so rapidly and friend is earning even more than my dad by multiples.

A few months ago, Dad also got put in charge of hiring production line workers from MY and CN. The CN agent offered my Dad a % profit and share of the sourcing firm. Dad turned it down, again fearing his directorship will get in the way. In the end, another of my Dad's friend did a HR sourcing setup. Dad also provided contacts for other factories who need line workers. HR firm now is doing very well.

I am very unhappy with my Dad for being a coward and constantly giving business opportunities to his friends. Have several quarrels as Dad wants me to keep my job (due to high pay) and does not encourage me going into any form of business venture. But I've seen the enormous profit potential of start-ups.

Any advice?