CUHK MBA students dive deep into innovation and global business in Singapore
A delegation of 40 students from the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) Business School MBA programmes embarked on an enriching study trip to Singapore in March, immersing themselves in one of the world’s most vibrant hubs for innovation, finance, and global commerce.
Designed as part of the CUHK MBA experiential learning curriculum and led by Professor Chen Zhi, the trip combined academic rigour with real-world exposure. Participants engaged in thought-provoking knowledge-sharing sessions with renowned faculty members from the National University of Singapore, Nanyang Technological University, and Singapore Management University.
The delegation also visited six leading companies at the forefront of technology, finance, and infrastructure, including Google Singapore, Alibaba Cloud, the Monetary Authority of Singapore, Standard Chartered Bank, TikTok and Surbana Jurong Private Limited. These company visits enabled students to explore business strategies, operational challenges, and innovation practices firsthand.
One of the highlights of the trip was the exclusive Director’s Table networking event, where students connected with industry leaders in Singapore. These meaningful interactions offered valuable career insights and helped expand professional networks in the region.
CUHK MBA hosts Asian Century Forum 2025 and GBA HR Symposium
On 28 April 2025, the MBA programmes of the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) Business School hosted its signature event, Asian Century Forum 2025, and the inaugural GBA Human Resources Symposium. These events, under the transformative LEAP (Leadership Experience through Active Participation) initiative, offered participants valuable insights, career advice, and networking opportunities with industry experts.
Co-organised with MBAChina, Asian Century Forum 2025 brought together more than 50 local and regional academic and industry leaders to explore innovative insights in entrepreneurship, sustainability, and global impact.
Following the welcome remarks by Professor Zhou Lin, dean of CUHK Business School, Mr Peter Yan King-shun, JP (BBA 1985), Director-General of the Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises, HKSAR Government, delivered his keynote speech, in which he underscored Hong Kong’s pivotal role as a “super-connector” in the tech-driven global economy. Professor Huang Zhuo, Associate Dean of the National School of Development, Peking University, highlighted resolving sustainable development challenges through digitisation and innovation. Professor Ye Qiang, Dean of the International Institute of Finance, the University of Science and Technology of China, provided a forward-looking vision of global business education in the tech era.
After the forum, the inauguration ceremony of LEAP Adviser Scheme and Industry Master Scheme was held, marking CUHK MBA’s commitment to bridging academia and industry.
Mr Peter Yan King-shun, JP (BBA 1985), Director-General of the Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises, HKSAR Government
Professor Huang Zhuo, Associate Dean of the National School of Development, Peking University
Professor Ye Qiang, Dean of the International Institute of Finance, the University of Science and Technology of China
(From left) Mr Vincent Cheng (EMBA 2022), CEO, Chinatone SupplyChain Limited; Mr Ben Wong (MBA 2015), Chief Executive Officer, Riverchain; Mr Adrian Chan (MBA 2020), Managing Director of Asia Pacific and Emerging Markets, Hong Kong Yun Express Logistics Limited; Dr Tony Koo, Administrative Director of MBA Programmes, CUHK Business School
GBA Human Resources Symposium and Career Accelerating Programme
In his keynote speech at the inaugural GBA Human Resources (HR) Symposium, Mr Francis Mok (EMBA 1995), former President of the Hong Kong Institute of Human Resources Management, offered actionable insights on Asia HR trends, leadership imperatives, and talent innovation.
The event also marked the launch of the Career Accelerating Programme (CAP) Scheme, a pioneering personal and career development initiative tailored exclusively for CUHK MBA students and recent graduates. Structured around three pillars—Career Competency Building, Accelerating Career Experience, and Personal Skills Development—the scheme prepares participants for leadership roles in Asia’s dynamic business landscape.
Professor Victoria Wang, along with three industry experts, discussed in a panel how CAP Scheme participants may unlock their personal and career growth potentials through the scheme.
Mr Francis Mok (EMBA 1995), former President of the Hong Kong Institute of Human Resources Management
(From left) Mr KM Wong (BBA 1983, MBA 1985), Chief Financial Officer, Hong Kong Electric Investment; Ms Rose Yeung (MBA 2002), Chief Consultant, Little Prince Foundation; Professor Victoria Wang, Department of Management, CUHK Business School; Mr Teddy Liu, Founder & CEO, Corporate & Talent Development Limited
CUHK MBA students explore sustainable innovations in Guilin
A group of MBA students from the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) Business School recently embarked on an enlightening study trip to Guilin led by Professor Victoria Wang. As part of the LEAP@BEAM Ecosystem, this experiential learning experience focused on sustainable business transformation through the case study of Integral – Esquel’s Sustainable Development Garden.
As a leading textile and apparel manufacturer, Esquel Group demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainability and innovation by integrating responsible manufacturing practices with the nature.
During the visit, senior executives shared valuable insights into the company’s transformative journey, showcasing technological advancements and a strong emphasis on people-centric strategies. The commitment to sustainability is reflected across multiple facets of their operations, including eco-friendly architecture, sustainable uniforms, healthy meals that harmonise with the nature.
Throughout the three-day trip, students engaged in thought-provoking dialogues with Esquel executives and participated in a variety of unique experiences, including a natural dyeing session using indigo. The trip concluded with a challenging yet rewarding exercise. Putting their teamwork and classroom learning to the test, students were tasked with developing strategic business plans, which they presented to Ms Teresa Yang (MBA 2003), Vice Chairperson of Esquel Group, for her valuable feedback.
This immersive experience reinforced the idea that profit and purpose can coexist, inspiring students to advocate for ethical practices as they continue to advance in their careers.
CUHK Business School class of 2024 concludes remarkable journeys at graduation ceremony
The 94th Congregation for the Presentation of Doctoral, Master’s and Bachelor’s Degrees of The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) was held on 17 November 2024. The nine colleges organised the Graduation Ceremonies for the Bachelor’s Degrees on 14 and 17 November, while CUHK Business School hosted the Doctoral and Master’s Degrees Graduation Ceremony on 16 November.
On 16 November, more than 900 graduates and 1,300 guests gathered at the University Mall to celebrate this momentous occasion. The ceremony began with a heartfelt welcome address by Professor Chan Wai-yee, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Strategic Developments) of CUHK. This was followed by an inspiring speech from the guest of honour and recipient of the prestigious Beta Gamma Sigma CUHK Chapter Honoree Award 2024, Mr Albert Wong (MBA 1994), Chief Executive Officer of the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation. As a seasoned tech leader, Mr Wong encouraged the graduates to embrace technology in their professional pursuits to advance their businesses and contribute to the broader Hong Kong economy.
Professor Chan Wai-yee, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Strategic Developments) of CUHK
Mr Albert Wong (MBA 1994), Chief Executive Officer of the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation
A highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of graduates from the five doctoral programmes and 14 master’s programmes. Each graduate was called onto the stage and congratulated by Professor Zhou Lin, dean of CUHK Business School, and programme directors. This marked the official conclusion of their academic journeys and the beginning of a new chapter.
Professor Zhou Lin, dean of CUHK Business School
Dr Han Miaozhe, Graduate Representative
To recognise the exceptional achievements of top-performing graduates, the Postgraduate Dean’s List Awards Ceremony was held on the same day, organised by Alumni Affairs and Development Office. During the event, Professor Zhou Lin congratulated the awardees and remarked, “As you take your journeys to the next level, hold fast to our university motto ‘through learning and temperance to virtue’ and strive to be leaders who prioritise empathy, responsibility, and integrity in every future endeavour.”
On this special occasion, many graduates made their way to the home base of CUHK Business School at Cheng Yu Tung Building, where they found creative backdrops and props designed for them to capture the unforgettable moments with their friends and families. On top of that, graduation gifts and souvenirs were available for redemption or purchase at designated booths, infusing the event with joy.
For the full album for the Graduation Celebration and Dean’s List Awards Ceremonies, please refer to here.
Redefining corporate governance through transparency and openness for a sustainable future
As sustainability gains importance globally, “corporate governance” has become a major focus in the business sector, forming one of the three pillars of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance). Traditionally centred on internal controls and management systems, corporate governance now encompasses the interests of various stakeholders and serves as a crucial metric of a company’s sustainability efforts. Beyond fulfilling environmental standards and honouring audit obligations, how can future businesses innovate in corporate governance and enhance sustainability, achieving triple-win outcomes for the business, the environment and society?
Corporate governance broadly refers to how a company balances the interests and interactions of investors, management, customers, suppliers, the government and other stakeholders, with transparency and trust at its core. According to a survey conducted by professional services firm PwC, 77% of investors expressed a desire to learn more about the ESG transformation of the companies they invest in. However, almost half of them indicated they would divest if companies could not take concrete actions or transparently disclose ESG information. Despite this, a report from a financial institution noted that enhancing operational transparency often necessitates significant capital and technology investment in building and maintaining data management systems, potentially risking the exposure of trade secrets. Consequently, many companies remain cautious about ESG disclosure.
Proactive Reform Shapes Future of Business
Harold Yip (BBA in Marketing 1987, EMBA 2001), who co-founded Mil Mill, Hong Kong’s first Tetra-Pak recycling pulp mill and education centre, offers a unique perspective. He strongly believes that enhancing corporate transparency can improve business operations. “By being transparent and allowing the public to see how we process recycled materials, we build trust with our customers,” he says, citing Mil Mill as an example.
The Mil Mill facility openly showcases its recycling processes, building public trust in the industry (Photo courtesy of Mil Mill)
While some companies may be uneasy about increasing transparency and do so primarily for ESG reporting purposes, Harold emphasises that his company fully embraces openness and the corporate governance ethos, a mindset that is elevating these concepts to a new level. For him, corporate governance is more than just fulfilling regulatory requirements. He actively invites public scrutiny of his company’s operations from start to finish. “There is already a lack of confidence in the recycling industry. I want to change that by showing people what paper recycling involves, and letting them see the entire process. After all, seeing is believing. This transparency has increased public trust in my company and restored faith in Hong Kong’s recycling industry,” he explains.
Mil Mill operates on a self-financing business model, but high local labour and land costs have limited its profitability. Nonetheless, Mil Mill’s commitment to high operational transparency has yielded unexpected benefits. It has established Mil Mill as a credible and pragmatic operation, and this brand impact has fuelled growth in Harold’s other environmental ventures, including confidential document recycling and processing, integrated waste management and consulting services, which are now the company’s main profit centres. Harold notes, “In my operational model, once public trust in the company is built, it fosters a sustainable profit model.” His strategy aligns with society’s growing environmental awareness, transforming corporate governance from a perceived constraint into a significant business opportunity.
Harold Yip, co-founder of Mil Mill, exemplifies confidence and leadership as he drives the company’s mission of transparency and environmental stewardship
Corporate Governance Goes Beyond Mere Social Responsibility
A study conducted by an international consulting firm validates Harold’s vision. It observed that companies excelling in ESG achieved annual total shareholder returns two percentage points higher than those excelling solely on financial metrics. This, in turn, indicates that companies with a strong commitment to ESG, especially those actively improving corporate governance, are not just meeting their social responsibilities. As a matter of fact, it is a crucial strategic move that can open new business opportunities, increase corporate value and enhance competitiveness.
CUHK Business School Professor Shen Luxi named among “40-Under-40 Best MBA Professors for 2024”
The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) Business School is delighted to announce that Professor Shen Luxi from the Department of Marketing has been named one of the “40-Under-40 Best MBA Professors for 2024” by Poets&Quants, a leading resource for insights into graduate business education market worldwide.
This annual recognition showcases the most talented young professors currently teaching in MBA programmes globally. This year, the distinguished professors on the list hail from 34 elite business schools from around the world and were carefully selected from more than 1,000 nominations.
She said, “I am incredibly honoured and humbled to have been selected as one of the Best 40-under-40 MBA Professors this year. I am truly grateful for the tremendous support I have received from the CUHK MBA community. Therefore, I want to share this honour with my remarkable students and esteemed colleagues at CUHK Business School. This award belongs to all of us. As the first faculty member from CUHK to receive this prestigious distinction, I hope it inspires a new generation of educators to bring CUHK’s culture of teaching excellence to the global stage.”
Professor Shen Luxi is dedicated to immersing her MBA students in diverse experiential learning opportunities
Professor Shen Luxi is dedicated to immersing her MBA students in diverse experiential learning opportunities
Professor Shen Luxi is dedicated to immersing her MBA students in diverse experiential learning opportunities
Professor Shen Luxi is dedicated to immersing her MBA students in diverse experiential learning opportunities
Asian business schools join forces to forge a sustainable future
The inaugural Asian Century Business School Sustainability Forum, jointly organised by the Office of MBA Programmes of the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) Business School and MBA China, concluded successfully on 28 March 2024.
The forum was themed “Innovation and Collaboration: Leading the Future Development of Asian Business Schools”. More than 60 education leaders from renowned business schools across Asia and industry leaders gathered, exchanging insights and exploring collaboration on the future trajectory for sustainability in the digital era.
Professor Seen Meng Chew, Associate Dean of International Relations at CUHK Business School
Professor Seen Meng Chew, Associate Dean of International Relations at CUHK Business School
The forum commenced with opening remarks by Professor Seen Meng Chew, Associate Dean of International Relations at CUHK Business School, highlighting the pivotal role of business education in driving impact in sustainability. Professor Chew also discussed the latest developments in sustainability through innovative avenues, including fintech and green bonds.
Ms Teresa Yang (MBA 2003), Vice President of Esquel Group
Ms Teresa Yang (MBA 2003), Vice President of Esquel Group
During her keynote address, Ms Teresa Yang (MBA 2003), Vice President of Esquel Group, shared a business case on how the group integrated responsible manufacturing practices with the nature in its sustainable development garden in Guilin, southern China, emphasising the imperative role for businesses to take the lead in sustainability efforts.
Professor Wan Wongsunwai, Associate Dean of MBA Programmes at CUHK Business School
Professor Wan Wongsunwai, Associate Dean of MBA Programmes at CUHK Business School
Professor Wan Wongsunwai, Associate Dean of MBA Programmes at CUHK Business School, underscored the urgency for business schools to embrace change and prime themselves for the forthcoming business transformations amid the emerging challenges in Asia.
The forum also featured other distinguished speakers, including Professor Yi Jing Tao, Dean of the Business School at People’s University of China and Professor Bai Chang Hong, Dean of the Business School at Nankai University.
CUHK Business School students excel in CFA Institute Research Challenge – Hong Kong Local Final 2023-24
Two teams of students from The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) Business School clinched the first and the second runner-up positions in the CFA Institute Research Challenge – Hong Kong Local Final 2023-24, which was held on 17 February 2024.
Hosted by CFA Society Hong Kong, the annual equity research competition provides university students with practical mentoring and intensive training in financial analysis. This year, 23 teams of students from Hong Kong and Macao were tested on their analytical, valuation, report writing, and presentation skills, as they assume the role of research analysts for H World Group Limited, a global leading hotel operator and franchisor.
Both winning teams from CUHK Business School expressed their appreciation for the invaluable guidance and support received from faculty advisor Dr Edwin Mok and their industry mentors.
Award list:
1st Runner-up Team
From left: Dr Alvin Ho (President of CFA Society Hong Kong), Ethan Zhang Chingto, Scott Tang Sai-fung, Winston Xue Kaihang, Tim Yun Ka-ho, Maggie Wang Chenyan
Scott Tang Sai-fung (IBBA, Year 3)
Maggie Wang Chenyan (BBA-JD, Year 2)
Winston Xue Kaihang (QFRM, Year 2)
Tim Yun Ka-ho (IBBA, Year 2)
Ethan Zhang Chingto (QFIN, Year 2)
2nd Runner-up Team
From left: Dr Alvin Ho (President of CFA Society Hong Kong), Henry Wang Yichun, Gillian Del Mundo, Bril Xiang Zhuo, Evelyn Yu Yan-ping, Monica Zhang Xian
Gillian Del Mundo (MBA, Year 1)
Henry Wang Yichun (MBA, Year 2)
Bril Xiang Zhuo (MBA, Year 1)
Evelyn Yu Yan-ping (MBA, Year 2)
Monica Zhang Xian (MBA, Year 2)
Photo courtesy of CFA Society Hong Kong
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
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.
Adam Tong (
Cherry Lu (
Vincent Cheng (