CUHK Business School and AWS Announce Collaboration to Nurture Cloud-Proficient Business Leaders
The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) Business School and Amazon Web Services (AWS), the world’s leading cloud provider, have announced a collaboration to enhance the digital proficiency of executives and business leaders.
Through this collaboration, AWS will provide foundational cloud training for existing and future business leaders, equipping them with essential knowledge in digital, cloud technologies, and operations. Offered to EMBA, MBA and masters’ students of CUHK Business School, the training will focus on the latest industry trends and the business value of cloud technology, with an aim to hone their knowledge and skills to lead transformative endeavours and seize opportunities in the evolving business landscape.
While digital literacy and computational thinking are already embedded in the undergraduate programme, Prof. Lin Zhou, Dean of CUHK Business School, emphasises the importance of integrating technology into master’s and executive education. He states, “The collaboration with AWS combines academic excellence with technology and innovation, enabling professionals and executives to stay at the forefront of the digital economy.”
Prof. Lin Zhou, Dean of CUHK Business School
Mr Chris So, Head of Business Development, AWS Hong Kong, emphasised, “The key to successful transformation is to have C-suite to drive a top-down shift, empower the entire organisation with cloud fluency. AWS is committed to nurturing digital talents in Hong Kong and has already provided cloud skills training to over 100,000 individuals. We believe that digital talent will be the driving force for significant transformation in Hong Kong.”
Mr Chris So, Head of Business Development, AWS Hong Kong
CUHK Business School and AWS announced collaboration
CUHK EMBA Ranks 23rd in Financial Times Executive MBA Ranking 2023
The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) Business School’s Executive MBA Programme (EMBA) continues to achieve remarkable international recognition, ranking 23rd in the Financial Times Executive MBA Ranking 2023, one place up from 24th last year. This remarkable feat signifies the programme’s consistent presence among the world’s top 30 EMBA programmes for the sixth consecutive year.
In this year’s ranking, CUHK EMBA maintains its strong foothold as number one in Asia Pacific and ranks fifth globally in the “Career Progress” category, which assesses changes in the level of seniority and the size of company our alumni work in now, versus before their EMBA. It also secures the second spot in Asia Pacific for “Aims Achieved,” which measures the extent to which alumni have fulfilled their goals or reasons for pursuing the EMBA. These notable results are testament to our strengths in delivering an exceptional leadership experience and commitment to propelling our students to the next level in their career.
Prof. Lin Zhou, Dean of CUHK Business School, said, “We take great pride in our EMBA programme for the results it achieved. As we celebrate the 60th anniversary of CUHK Business School this year, our EMBA programme has successfully spanned a journey of 30 years. CUHK Business School remains dedicated to nurturing business leaders with a global perspective, serving the economies of Hong Kong and Asia Pacific. The remarkable accomplishments of our EMBA alumni bear testament to this commitment. In Hong Kong and far beyond, their contributions and impact have gained recognition and respect on the global stage.”
“We pay tribute of this prestigious global recognition to our proud network of alumni, who not only constantly seek to excel in leading their organisations but also actively contribute back to the community. I would also like to express my heartfelt gratitude to our faculty members and staff who are committed to bringing our mission to life, creating a transformative experience to the top-notch leaders to develop their potentials to the fullest. We will continue to innovate our programme to help our students stay relevant, agile and competent for the future and drive meaningful impact in their organisations and society,” said Dr Andrew Yuen, Director of EMBA Programme.
Being the first EMBA programme in Hong Kong, CUHK EMBA integrates Chinese wisdom with Western knowledge to nurture top-notch management talent to meet tomorrow’s challenges in Hong Kong, the mainland and beyond. CUHK EMBA offers a unique leadership education experience, which encapsulates its value proposition “Six Pillars” (Theories, Practices, Internal Network, External Network, Strategic Perspectives & Social Contribution), designed to enhance the wellbeing of the business community and society at large.
For more details, please click here to read the full results of the Financial Times Executive MBA Ranking 2023 and visit www.bschool.cuhk.edu.hk/emba to learn more about CUHK EMBA.
CUHK EMBA Residence Week Empowers Students with Effective Leadership and Strategic Capabilities
The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) Business School EMBA Residence Week is a flagship programme in the EMBA curriculum. Successfully conducted from 25 to 30 August, the immersive programme brought together over 40 exceptional executives from the new cohort.
It aimed to inspire the participants to rethink the role of corporations in the evolving global landscape, the unique values that executives can contribute, and the ways in which leaders can influence others with their vision to accomplish organisational goals.
At the welcoming cocktail and dinner, Professor Lin Zhou, Dean of CUHK Business School, Dr Andrew Yuen, Director of EMBA Programme, along with current students and alumni, heartily welcomed the new cohort. The unforgettable evening gathered more than 130 enthusiastic participants, creating a vibrant platform for them to connect, exchange experiences, and share their aspirations for the forthcoming EMBA journey.
Professor Lin Zhou, Dean of CUHK Business School
Dr Andrew Yuen, Director of EMBA programme
The rigourous programme took the new cohort through an extraordinary leadership experience. Participants were immersed in a series of highly interactive and engaging activities, including the internationally renowned TechMark Business Simulations, expertly conducted by its founder, Dr Robert Ng. TechMark Business Simulations is one of the first fully computerised commercial simulation programmes in executive education, designed to help companies establish a robust and sustainable competitive advantage.
Dr Robert Ng, Founder of TechMark Business Simulations
As the journey unfolded, participants were further inspired to cultivate authentic leadership, elevate their innovation capacity and embrace the mindset of a change leader, equipping them to thrive in a world characterised by volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity. The programme not only fostered deep self-insight and social consciousness among the participants, but also transformed the cohort into a tightly-knit, supportive community.
Twists and Turns for the Better
In face of the abruptly changing business landscapes in China, staying ahead of the curve sometimes requires career redirection. Embodied the spirit of innovation, three CUHK Business School alumni made a bold pivot in their career paths and charted new courses towards success with their true passion.
Adam Tong (IBBA 2011) Public Servant,
Yinchuan People’s Government
Cherry Lu (MBA 2004) Founder & Executive Partner,
RedHill Capital
Vincent Cheng (EMBA 2022) CEO,
Ocean Science (Hong Kong)
Q1. Tell us about your career redirection.
Adam: I founded my own IT business in Hong Kong after graduation. As my understanding towards the strategic progress of the Belt and Road initiatives enriched over the years, I decided to move to Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region and contribute to its development as a public servant.
Cherry: As a clinical medicine degree holder in the private healthcare sector, I was initiated into the burgeoning venture capital market during my MBA study and found healthcare investment my true calling. After a 13-year tenure in the field, I founded my own company in 2018.
Vincent: Previously I have tapped into different trades, from frozen food and logistics to chemical imports and private tuition. Recently I decided to stop hopping around and settle with start-ups on marine and medical technology.
Q2. Why did you decide to take such a big leap?
Adam: While Northwest China gave off the impression of a backwater region, it had its very own potential waiting to happen. My entrepreneurial experiences and business acumen boosted in first-tier cities could come into play here and bring the impact I wish to see.
Cherry: I always look beyond the present and plan in reverse, and this change of professional pursuit came natural to me given my passion in entrepreneurial pursuits. Starting a business in the context of a downward market trend is not easy, but you can only gain a new perspective outside your comfort zone.
Vincent: Business opportunities for entrepreneurs are plentiful in China, but I learnt from my EMBA study that success is sometimes more about quality rather than quantity. We all know that technology will completely change our lives, and filling the gap between research and product incubation in the field is how I can harness my strengths to create greater value.
Q3. What kind of business potential do you see in your current capacity and how can Hong Kong tap into that?
Adam: The industrial structure in Ningxia is rather primitive, and so I think its major potential lies in the innovation and technology sector and the creative industry, which still lag the national economy and rely heavily on foreign service providers. There is a huge need for Hong Kong talent in these ends.
Cherry: The healthcare industry in the Greater Bay Area is venture capital’s new promised land. With issues like ageing population and AI technology development factored in, the industry will undergo a revolutionary transition and Hong Kong will be able to leverage the synergy in the region by pouring in its talent and academic resources.
Vincent: Hong Kong is blessed with cutting-edge research and a comprehensive policy framework, while mainland China boasts solid industry infrastructures and a vast market. With borders fully opened, collaborations within the region will help consolidate the strengths of Hong Kong as an innovation and technology hub.
Q4. How did your study in CUHK Business School empower you to navigate changing business landscapes?
Adam: I was supported by my professors and mentors along the way, and they guided me through all my twists and turns. CUHK Business School was the gateway to my entrepreneurial dreams, and I still benefit from the experiences and social network it enabled.
Cherry: My start-up proposal for a business plan contest during my MBA study turned out to be the prototype with which I started my venture capital investment career. I learnt from this twist that uncertainty and possibility are two sides of the same coin. With a firm grasp on the rigid market demand, you can always identify the right opportunity.
Vincent: The EMBA programme taught me the importance to stay grounded and make all efforts to strengthen our subject expertise. We are living in an era of “always-on” transformation, and only through a solid grasp of details can we push our intellectual boundaries to lead changes.
Thinking of advancing yourself in the next normal? Explore what’s in your future with CUHK Business School’s programmes.
The interviews first appeared in CUHK Business School Alumni Portal, abridged with permission from the School’s Alumni Affairs and Development Office.
CUHK Business School Receives Generous Donation from Mr. Tan Bingzhao to Launch Endowed Named Professorship
The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) Business School has received a generous donation of HK$10 million from Mr. Bingzhao Tan, Chairman and CEO of Nimble Holdings Co. Ltd. and alumnus of the School’s EMBA (Chinese) Programme. The donation is intended to establish an Endowed Named Professorship in Department of Finance that provides additional and stable annual funding to the incumbent professor’s related research activities, so as to enhance the research capacity at CUHK.
To recognise Mr. Tan’s generosity, Prof. Rocky S. Tuan, CUHK Vice-Chancellor and President, hosted a donor recognition dinner attended by management from the University and Business School.
From left: Prof. Anthony Chan, Pro-Vice-Chancellor and Vice-President (Alumni Relations & Advancement) of CUHK, Mr. Bingzhao Tan, Chairman and CEO of Nimble Holdings Co. Ltd. and Prof. Rocky S. Tuan, Vice-Chancellor and President of CUHK
Endowed named professorships are highly prestigious academic positions that recognise leading scholars in their respective fields. The scheme aims to attract and recruit outstanding scholars from around the world, retain and support eminent academics in the university, and promote academic advancement in the university’s distinguished areas.
Prof. Tuan appreciated Mr. Tan’s contribution and stated, “The donation from Mr. Tan is a significant testament to the commitment and generosity of CUHK alumni, supporting the University’s mission of promoting academic and research excellence and building a brighter future for generations to come.”
As an alumnus of the EMBA (Chinese) programme, Mr. Tan encouraged fellow alumni to support education development and give back to their alma mater, “CUHK has nurtured countless outstanding talents for the country who are also strong advocates for Hong Kong and China. With this donation, I hope I could also be part of it to contribute to the education development of the country, and encourage more of my fellow alumni to do the same.”
Prof. Lin Zhou, Dean of CUHK Business School, expressed his gratitude for Mr. Tan. He added that the establishment of the endowed named professorship would enable the School to further its research and education and to provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the rapidly changing world of finance.
Mr. Tan is currently the Chairman and CEO of Nimble Holdings Co. Ltd., which engages in distribution of houseware products and audio products in the US, and the trading of household appliances, provision of information technology services and property development in Mainland China. He is a co-founder and director of the Nimble Charitable Foundation in Hong Kong, as well as the Honorary Chairman of Guangzhou Nimble Investment Co., Ltd. Additionally, Mr. Tan is the President of the Hong Kong Chapter of the EMBA (Chinese) Alumni Association.
Prior to the setup of the endowed named professorship, Mr. Tan donated HK$800,000 to CUHK China Engagement Office to support a postdoctoral fellowship scheme in 2021.
From left: Prof. Lin Zhou, Dean of CUHK Business School, Mr. Bingzhao Tan, Chairman and CEO of Nimble Holdings Co. Ltd. and Prof. Kalok Chan, Chairman, Department of Finance of CUHK Business School.
First published in the CUHK Business School Alumni Website on 11 May 2023, this article was republished with permission from the School’s Alumni Affairs and Development Office.
Living in an AI-Powered Future Today
Many people believe that 2023 will be the year when artificial intelligence (AI) explodes and the decades of toil, tears and sweat of industry pioneers bear fruit. “People working in AI have persevered not because we saw hope. We’ve held on because that’s the only way to find hope,” said Nixon Chau (EMBA 2015), Managing Director and General Manager of SenseTime Hong Kong.
Despite the doubts he faced along the way, Nixon believes that action is the best affirmation of aspiration. With well thought out plans, he persuades his peers and partners to join him in his work to build the future.
Forging a New Path with Conviction
Nixon, a computer science graduate, has always been interested in tech trends. He knew early on that AI would be a major trend propelling human progress. For this reason, he joined various tech firms to gain experience while keeping an eye out for opportunities. Such an opportunity presented itself in 2020, and he seized the chance to join SenseTime.
According to Nixon, working in AI has catapulted him into the future: “While people talk about three-to-five-year plans, we cast our vision on horizons 10 years and beyond.” People outside the industry frequently dismiss AI ideas as being beyond the realms of possibility. It has not been easy to persuade investors either. AI projects often require astronomical sums of investment just to build the necessary infrastructure, as if validating the saying “You have to pay to play”. Continuous adjustments must be made along the way to keep up with the latest developments, and failures are unavoidable.
Nixon made the decision to join the industry not out of hope, but rather through research and data analysis. His science education helped him develop this rational approach, which he now applies to his projects. “AI development is never based on feelings or fantasies. The field places a premium on databases, and every project necessitates massive and systematic data collection, analysis and deployment in order to achieve precise technological results.” Nixon stated that it is critical to believe in one’s analysis and decisions in the moment, learn from failures and be courageous in innovation to become a leader in the field. Acting on this axiom, he experimented with starting up a company before joining SenseTime to learn the ins and outs of turning ideas into reality. “If you can’t accept failure, you’ll always follow trodden paths and proven formulas. And you’ll always be a follower.”
Nixon recognised AI’s meteoric rise and decided to join SenseTime in 2020 to help the company’s business and strategic development in Hong Kong.
Setting the Tone for the Future of AI
When Nixon joined the industry, AI was not as prevalent as it is today, and his primary focus was on communication and awareness building. With cloud computing and digital technologies increasingly permeating daily life in recent years, there has been concern about AI’s information security, potential to replace human workers and ethical use. “Every new creation goes through an evolutionary stage in which the benefits and risks appear irreconcilable. We must confront the core issues rather than avoid them.”
Nixon believes that the future of smart development hinges on people’s vision and openness. Because change is bound to happen, it is preferable to embrace it and prepare for it by increasing readiness and taking charge. “I don’t believe AI will replace human workers entirely. Rather, people who are unable to harness this technology will be replaced by others who are able to use it effectively.” He compared tech pioneers to Tang Sanzang in the novel Journey to the West, in which the Buddhist monk travels to Tianzhu to retrieve Buddhist scriptures. In addition to personally persevering in their arduous journey, tech pioneers must discover the qualities of their fellow travellers, allowing them to grow and manifest their strengths, in order to collectively turn aspirations into realities.
Nixon remarked that Hong Kong’s innovation and technology (I&T) development benefits from a unique combination of timing, location and talent. These favourable conditions will enable his team to go further. “The government is working in concert with national policies and promoting I&T growth in eight major directions. With the Greater Bay Area’s vast application scenarios and I&T support, as well as Hong Kong’s excellent inherent strengths, including having five universities ranked among the global top 100, we can definitely foster more success stories and propel AI growth.”
“I believe that AI will not replace human workers in the future, but that those who know how to use technology effectively will replace those who stop to rest on their laurels,” Nixon shared.
With Debate Comes Clarity
Nixon described his EMBA experience at CUHK as a period of personal growth and confidence building. He vividly remembered professors guiding students to share their thoughts with an open mind before examining the issues calmly and rationally. “It was like watching kung fu masters fight other masters in movies. Elites from different industries bring their best to the game, and the exciting exchanges would spark all sorts of new knowledge and ideas. It was great fun.”
He stated that the present age is one where “if you’re not moving forward, you’re falling behind”. Young people should strive to absorb more knowledge, embrace exploration opportunities and broaden their minds and experiences. “You’ll become firmer in your actions and beliefs after repeated validation, and you’ll find the right path forward.”
First published in the CUHK Business School Alumni Website on 7 March 2023, this article was republished with permission from the School’s Alumni Affairs and Development Office.
Insistence on Going Beyond Expectations
The glitter and allure of the jewellery industry often conceal the perseverance of artisans and salespeople, who spend their lives perfecting minute details.
Peter Suen [EMBA (Chinese) 2014] began his career in the luxury industry as a sales trainee in the 1980s. In 2011, he was appointed Executive Director of the Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group to oversee its businesses in Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan and overseas. Since his first day in the business, Peter has always insisted on “exceeding expectations”, a mindset that has enabled him to stand out and hone a diverse skillset, and now manage the jewellery giant with deftness and precision.
A Personal Brand that Goes Beyond Boundaries
Peter discovered his talent for sales and interest in jewellery while working a summer job. He joined Chow Tai Fook after graduation and started as a “newbie” on the frontlines. From switching branches to career advancement, Peter attributed his relatively smooth journey to fortuity, including meeting old masters who were very generous in passing on their knowledge to the younger generation. Having the right attitude was also crucial: “Jewellery is a luxury good, and sales often rely on trust and interpersonal relationships. Salespeople, like merchants, must build a reputation. I try to grow myself as a brand and foster long-term relationships with customers.”
More than that, Peter always pushes himself to go above and beyond to exceed others’ expectations. His efforts have gradually paid off; he frequently broke the record for the highest single transaction amount and rose to become the company’s youngest branch manager. “I’m motivated by record-breaking, of course, but I’m most proud of having built long-lasting friendships with my customers. I’m still in touch with some of my first customers, even though they’re all over the world now. Some even brought their grandchildren with them to shop with us. Being a part of an industry that is inherently linked to happiness gives me a lot of satisfaction.”
Peter joined Chow Tai Fook after graduation and has been a part of the industry’s evolution for nearly 40 years.
Demonstrate Leadership by Passing the Baton to the Next Generation
Good communication is crucial to sales success. Keen observation, active listening and delivering the right message to the right audience at the right time are key attributes that can prove valuable to both customers and management. Peter’s management style contains a blend of old-school tradition and modern principles. He is working to empower the younger generation of employees by entrusting them with responsibility and guiding them on their career journey (a management philosophy also known as “saying more and doing less” in Chinese).
“Opportunities to learn and grow are important for the younger generation. I see my role as empowering the team leaders to manage their own work and providing guidance and support where necessary”. He remembered that being told off was commonplace during his apprenticeship days and that even his colleagues once thought of him as a stern teacher. But now he focuses on sharing his experience and giving younger colleagues room to grow and shine.
“The jewellery industry is like many other traditional industries. There must be business systems in place to ensure stability, seasoned masters to pass on knowledge, and vitality to attract young people who value flexibility and challenge.” To stay current, the company not only offers flexible work arrangements and professional training but also courses like wine tasting to help colleagues develop new skills. Furthermore, the Group is incorporating innovative technologies into its core businesses, such as introducing various online sales platforms to provide customers with personalised shopping experiences, so they always have something new to look forward to. “When you can operate like a library and offer various treasures from your trove, you will naturally be able to win by delight.”
“I am working to empower my colleagues and give them more room to grow and shine, adopting a management philosophy of ‘saying more and doing less’,” shared Peter.
Peter has witnessed the evolution of Hong Kong’s jewellery industry over the course of decades, saying it has always experienced rapid growth and indomitable vitality. Nathan Road may have the highest concentration of jewellery stores in the world. “Hong Kong is a magical market. As quarantine-free travel and normalcy resume, we anticipate that the city’s retail industry will bounce back gradually.” He is also optimistic about the Chinese mainland market and Asian tourist hotspots. With young consumers aged 25 to 34 now driving jewellery and gold consumption, the industry’s prospects will be bolstered and invigorated.
Breaking Free from the Mould
Peter fondly recalled his time at CUHK. According to him, returning to school was a wonderful opportunity that provided him with respite from a heavy workload that saw him dashing in a rather singular direction. Furthermore, the EMBA programme offered him time to slow down and think. He also met classmates from different corners of society and was inspired and motivated by the life stories and struggles of these industry elites.
“Set your sights wide and keep exchanging with others,” he encourages younger graduates, using what he learnt at CUHK Business School. “This will broaden your perspectives and enable you to see further and deeper.”
First published in the CUHK Business School Alumni Website on 9 February 2023, this article was republished with permission from the School’s Alumni Affairs and Development Office.
Forging a Media Content Empire with Passion, Grit and an All-In Attitude
Lovinia Chiu (EMBA 2013), the chairman and CEO of Medialink Group Limited, appears to have the Midas touch. She has distributed countless massively popular TV dramas, animations and movies, from timeless classics like Jewel in the Palace (Dae Jang Geum) and Meteor Garden to the recent Jujutsu Kaisen and the eagerly awaited return of Slam Dunk. She has also managed a venerated brand’s licensing business and built an IP empire from the ground up.
All of these demonstrated her keen eye for the extraordinary. As gifted as she might have seemed, it is perhaps more accurate to attribute her three decades of success to her unyielding passion and dedication.
Pioneering with Passion
The no-nonsense Lovinia shared that she always gives 120% at work. She joked that she has had an endless supply of energy since she was a child, which has led her to success in swimming and various ball sports. Participating in sports has also built up her resilience and physical strength, enabling her to go full throttle throughout her career. She explained that losing her father while in secondary school taught her early on that she could rely on only herself, which motivated her to work even harder. When she was at her first job in programme distribution, she already worked nine in the morning to midnight every day, spending a tremendous amount of time learning about the industry and cultures of various regions while delivering double the results. “As a newcomer, I was always ready to take my boss’ orders. During the Gulf War when no fly-zones were in place, I still had to choose detour routes to fly to Monte Carlo on Valentine’s Day to attend a TV festival on my own.”
After spending six years working for others, Lovinia was encouraged by her clients to start her own business. She converted space in her home into an office and embarked on her entrepreneurial journey. At the time, she was bullish about the market potential of Japanese anime. She visited Japan several times and tried cold-calling producers, only to be turned down repeatedly. She diligently researched market statistics. Finally, she was able to acquire her first anime, Mojack, which was an instant hit. She then learnt about product licensing and made their debut in brand licensing with Nintama Rantarō, causing the producers of Pokémon to come to Hong Kong to discuss product licensing and made their debut in brand licensing. “My company was still small at the time and I didn’t speak Japanese, so I asked a friend to act as an interpreter. The two of us met with a delegation of more than 30 people, as well as some formidable competitors. Fortunately, our hard work paid off.”
Lovinia now runs a product licensing agency with more than 600 media contents and over 200 licensing brands in its portfolio. She admitted that her mind is entirely focused on work. Her husband teased her for having no life, but she disagreed, saying, “I love my work and I enjoy creating something from nothing. In my opinion, these things are part of my life.” By always giving her all, she has gained client recognition and audience approval. The “equivalent exchange” concept made famous by the anime Fullmetal Alchemist, which she acquired, became Lovinia’s motto: “If you want to reap the rewards, you must work hard and keep improving.”
Recently, Medialink Group received the Special Award for Established and Medium Enterprises at the 2022 HKMA Quality Award. “When it comes to management, I treat everyone equally,” Lovinia explained. “I have the same expectations for myself and my colleagues. When you try your best and do your homework, there is nothing you can’t do.”
Lovinia’s all-in attitude has won her the trust of clients, allowing Medialink to become Hong Kong’s first publicly traded IP management company.
Cultivating a Media Content Ecosystem
With the pandemic changing people’s entertainment habits, the number of subscribers to Lovinia’s anime channel has surged from around 1,000 in 2019 to nearly three million recently. She stated that her company will continue to develop more in-house content and platforms. In addition to being a content buyer in the downstream, she intends to move upstream to become a content supplier and establish a sustainable media content ecosystem for her brand. She believes that the enormous potential of local creators merits support and encouragement. For this reason, she has set up a scholarship to support students studying media arts and production, with the goal of developing local talent.
Lovinia’s vision is for Hong Kong to shine on the global stage as a regional IP trading centre. “Media content emphasises cultural exchange; and our IP has the potential to reach global markets. Every brand’s DNA can generate a plethora of wonderful assets that can be harnessed and, when used wisely, brought to life.” Using Korean entertainment as an example, the success of its IPs has also aided the development of the country’s tourism industry, the global popularity of Korean food and the proliferation of dance schools. She hopes that the government will invest resources, put in place long-term plans and supportive measures and promote sustainable development for the entire industry chain.
“Every brand has its own rich set of DNA. Use it wisely to give the brand a longer lifespan,” Lovinia shared.
Keeping the Eye on the Ball
Lovinia said CUHK’s EMBA programme helped her develop an entrepreneurial mindset, prompting her to take her company public and reach a new level. The experience also taught her the true meaning of “team” and allowed her to make many close friends who advised and supported her all along. Her current CFO is even an EMBA classmate.
Lovinia encouraged students to practice lifelong learning and to be diligent and persistent, drawing on the lessons of her struggles and successes: “Don’t be afraid of getting a raw deal. Set your sights high, make small improvements every day and pay attention to details. You may have no control over the outcome of things, but you always have control over how you manage yourself.”
Lovinia (top: second from left; bottom: centre) had a great time with her EMBA classmates in their graduation trip to Holland.
First published in the CUHK Business School Alumni Portal on 8 December 2022, this article was republished with permission from the School’s Alumni Affairs and Development Office.
Finding Success in Differing Waters
Kelvin Chiu (MBA 2013) has acquired many lifelong skills and qualities from organised sports. It has been persistence, determination and a disposition to grow that have guided him through his career and life, whether it has been moving from Canada to Hong Kong, switching from the energy sector to finance, or taking on the role of leader.
Kelvin is now an established professional in finance, but his previous life bore little resemblance to the one he is now living. He grew up in Canada, studied electrical engineering and began his career in the energy sector. While some people might appreciate the sector’s stability, after a few years on the job, Kelvin felt it was time to try something new.
“My job was interesting, but I felt it was very sector-specific, and I was a little sheltered,” Kelvin explained. “I wanted to learn more about how the world works and how different industries interact with one another. I figured it was time to expand my perspectives.”
Changing jobs, functions and even industries were all on the cards. Despite not having specific goals in mind, he believed that Hong Kong, located in the heart of the world’s largest growth region, would allow him to create the best opportunities. He also realised that he needed a solid foundation to pivot his career, so he began researching MBA programmes.
Creating a New Foundation for a New Career
Kelvin looked into The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK). He determined that its MBA programme would provide him with extensive post-graduate opportunities owing to its course offerings, reputation and extensive alumni network. Aside from learning with like-minded peers, he also thought it would provide the opportunity to connect with established business leaders and gain more insight into himself.
Kelvin found that the programme not only met his expectations, it also opened his eyes. He made many friends with similar career aspirations who supported one another both in and out of school, and his roommate was one of them. Although they did not know each other before coming to CUHK, they quickly became good friends and furthermore, even became colleagues at Citigroup.
Kelvin also loved his exchange at ESADE Business School in Barcelona for enriching his MBA experience and giving him the chance to travel extensively around Europe. He did admit, however, that it was difficult for him to relish the experience at first because he had not yet secured a full-time job. “In retrospect, it was more important to make the most of the exchange and build relationships. Work will always be there. But this type of experience doesn’t come along very often in life.”
Kelvin made many friends with similar career aspirations who supported one another during his MBA study at CUHK.
Kelvin made many friends with similar career aspirations who supported one another during his MBA study at CUHK.
Kelvin made many friends with similar career aspirations who supported one another during his MBA study at CUHK.
New Platform. New Lanes.
Kelvin joined Citigroup after graduating from CUHK’s MBA programme and began a new career in finance. He worked in a variety of business groups before settling into the prime finance and securities lending department. After seven years, he was offered a position to lead J.P. Morgan’s Agency Securities Finance Trading team in Hong Kong. He now runs a team to look after stock lending on the agency side, focusing on the Asia Ex trading markets, which include most of Asia except Australia and Japan.
“This transition to another field of work definitely took some adjusting. In spite of the fact that my new job differed from my previous one in terms of its nature, the need for concise communication and level-headedness remains the same. Combined with the skills I developed in my previous job and the knowledge I gained at CUHK, I started my new career on solid ground.” Kelvin described the theories, concepts and skills that he learnt at the CUHK MBA programme as “highly applicable in the business world”. He recalls most vividly the teachings of Professor Chak Wong and Professor Thomas Bain.
“Professor Wong’s class about machine learning broadened our perspectives and inspired our thinking. Professor Bain’s extensive experience in the finance sector and his down-to-earth teaching style has set the expectations and bar high for us. Hearing from people who have been there and through it was eye-opening.”
Old Habits Run Deep
Kelvin’s proclivity for learning new skills, swimming towards new horizons and striving to outdo himself stems from his training as a national-level competitive swimmer in Canada. “Swimming was a huge part of my life in high school and university. I trained for 20 hours a week. I enjoy routines and things that are structured. Swimming also taught me a lot of life skills that I still use today. This includes ensuring that I have put in the necessary effort to achieve the desired results.”
Participating in organised sports and competitions also taught him the value of persistence and consistency. “Both are essential for you to succeed or keep going. People often want to see results quickly, but it doesn’t work that way. Sometimes, it takes time to work on your skills, put in the effort and create relationships. Discipline, dedication and determination will get you far in life. These are also qualities that I hope to instil in my three sons.”
Kelvin was a national-level competitive swimmer in Canada. The experience taught him the value of persistence and consistency.
Kelvin was a national-level competitive swimmer in Canada. The experience taught him the value of persistence and consistency.
Coaching Future Generations
Kelvin’s next goal is to enhance his skills in leading and managing people. He is also eager to share his experiences and perspectives with the younger generation to help them find their own career paths.
“I’ve had the pleasure to meet many students and recent graduates through the Alumni Career Advisor scheme, which has given me a chance to give back to the MBA programme that I have gained so much from. The experience I had has inspired me greatly, and I want to be someone who helps future generations achieve the same success.”
Kelvin is an Alumni Career Advisor for MBA programme to help existing MBA students and recent graduates find their own career paths.
Taking the Reins of Life, Business and the Family Legacy
A civil engineer by training, Derrick Pang (EMBA 2007) returned to Hong Kong after graduating from university to join his family’s construction company. He worked at construction sites and closely monitored every project placed under his charge, even helping to lay gravel on the railway tracks when duty called. As he worked his way up to CEO, he gradually gained the trust of the team. Now, he is leading Chun Wo, the storied construction and engineering company, in its transformation into Asia Allied Infrastructure Holdings Limited, all while driving the industry forward.
Derrick admitted that he has a penchant for “refusing to accept reality”. Yet, it is precisely this doggedness that has earned him both achievements as well as respect. “Once I’ve identified my objective, I’m not going to give up. The construction industry is all about being proactive and problem-solving. I don’t think there are problems that cannot be solved.”
Winning Respect from the Frontlines
Following his graduation from university, Derrick stayed in the United States to work as a consultant. After a few years, his mother asked him to return home and help out at the family business. Considering that he could have more time to spend with his parents, he left the US and came back to Hong Kong. He started off at the lowest rung of the company and worked on construction sites, hoping to gain experience in construction management. But his colleagues were understandably wary of him. To keep him at a distance, they deliberately assigned him to work at the upper floor office. “I knew I had to be the one to break the ice. So, I went to the construction site every day to check on the progress of the work. I would strike conversations with frontline colleagues and construction veterans to learn about construction progress and operations. Where possible, I would also attend meetings and volunteer to assist. This helped me gain practical experience while also relieving my colleagues’ workload.” Nobody expected the company’s “heir” to roll up his sleeves and get his hands dirty, let alone do the hard work that no one else would – cleaning the sewage pit with his bare hands and getting them covered in sludge. “It’s not as if I was trying to prove anything. However, if there was a problem, stalling or fleeing wasn’t going to cut it.”
Despite the hardships, Derrick managed to earn the much-deserved respect of his team with his hands-on approach and conscientious attitude. His experience working at the frontlines also taught him about leadership: “An engineer’s work is full of sweat and tears; it involves reading and collating architectural drawings, as well as careful planning and effective communication. This is how they make sure every unit runs smoothly without making mistakes.” Derrick likened a construction team to a football team, in that success is dependent on everyone working together to achieve common goals while complementing one another.
As an ambitious and goal-focused second-generation leader of a family business, Derrick is a man of his words. His hands-on approach encourages his employees to trust him.
Creating the New by Breaking with the Old and Investing in the Future
Just as Derrick was making strides in his career, his father passed away unexpectedly in 2010. Losing his orientation, Derrick found it difficult to ascertain whether he should stay on the job. After much rumination, he recalled his father’s teaching: “I still remember working as a volunteer and returning home late at night. My father questioned how much I could do with a single pair of hands, and advised me to focus on gaining professional success first and galvanise ‘a hundred pair of helping hands’ to achieve greater impacts.” Ultimately, Derrick chose to reposition his work and transform the company into a platform that not only continues its mission but also contributes to society. Ever since, he has been actively developing ideas and strategies, while establishing a charity crowdfunding platform to raise funds for sick children and rare disease patients.
The construction industry has been fraught with labour shortages. After taking over the company, Derrick was also challenged with people issues. His company’s image suffered a setback due to a construction dispute, and bids placed on construction projects saw no chance of winning at all. Even his human resources colleagues pointed out that “no smart people would choose to work in the company.”
After this upset, Derrick resolved to deal with the root cause of this problem. He set up the Elite Program (Management Trainee Program) and hired recent graduates to intern in various departments of his company, in order to groom them to become future executives. He also subsidised continuing education for middle and senior management colleagues, and formed a girl group called “Dream Girls” to promote the industry while projecting an image of diversity and vitality. To encourage more young people to join the industry, he even founded the HKCA Young Members Society and toured around universities for promotion, hoping to bring together young people who are interested in pursuing careers in construction. Derrick jovially remarked that whenever he comes up with new ideas, others are always quick to dismiss them. Nonetheless, he would stick to his beliefs, even if others thought him naïve: “When I set my mind on achieving something, I will see it through, regardless of the challenges.”
“By figuring out your objectives and setting your sights farther, you will naturally find solutions to problems. That is true for construction project planning, management as well as life itself, “ said Derrick.
In addition to nurturing talent, Derrick also sets his sights on site safety. He bemoaned how society has become acclimatised to construction site accidents. However, human lives are at stake, and no amount of compensation can make up for the families of the dead who have lost. Tragedy can be avoided only by clearly defining safety responsibilities and raising safety awareness. “Fortunately, there is industry consensus on this. But what I hope to achieve is sustainable development, not flashy ‘fireworks’ that look great but vanish in the blink of an eye.”
Humility, Sincerity, Positivity
Pursuing an EMBA at the Chinese Business School allowed Derrick to meet successful people from various industries. This experience taught him to stay humble and helped him make new friends and confidants. He was particularly impressed by the masterclass “I Ching and Leadership”: “There is always a turning point, whether things are going in your favour or against you. It is necessary to consider both positive and negative aspects of everything, keep an open mind and chart a course forward.” He urged young alumni to maintain a humble, sincere and studious attitude while awaiting opportunities, without counting what they have to offer. “We all have our own problems and shortcomings. Only by facing problems bravely can we overcome our limitations, grow and take control of our lives.”
Derrick (top: back row, first from left; bottom: second last row, fifth from right) enjoyed his EMBA studies alongside business leaders from various industries.
First published in the CUHK Business School Alumni Portal on 6 October 2022, this article was republished with permission from the School’s Alumni Affairs and Development Office.
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