[1] Tan became an employee of Paterson Simons Merchants shortly after arriving in Singapore.
[1] After retiring from Paterson Simons Merchants, he founded the Tan Kim Tian and Son Steamship Company with his son, Tan Beng Wan in 1865.
The business prospered following their decision to concentrate on steamships instead of sail.
[2] He also owned the Kim Tian's Pier on Havelock Road along the Singapore River.
[5] He lived in the Botan House, which he built, on Neil Road.