Breaking barriers and bridging the gaps
From Australia to Japan and the US, CUHK Business School alumni have demonstrated the power of knowledge in their professional journeys and driving innovation. As the business landscape evolves, their ability to adapt and leverage their talent is a testament to their ever-growing impact and influence.
Maggie (Kit) Yau (IBBA 2004)
Head of Marketing, Alibaba Group (Australia and New Zealand)
Melbourne, Australia
William Lau (MBA 2005)
Service Business Manager, Honeywell Japan
Ibaraki, Japan
Kelly Wang (FMBA 2004)
Teacher, Kumon North America Inc.
Seattle, the US
Q1. Could you briefly describe your current job scope or responsibilities?
- Maggie: My major duty is to enhance the brand’s presence and implement strategic plans. I oversee marketing and government affairs strategy and build relationships with government agencies across Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, and the Pacific Islands. I also collaborate with business chambers to facilitate local businesses on a global stage.
- William: I oversee the entire service business for the distributed control systems in major oil refineries and power plants, as well as quality control systems in pulp and paper mills and battery thin film technology. I am also responsible for the profitability and performance of the service business in Japan.
- Kelly: My primary role involves overseeing the education centre’s operations, as well as supervising and training our tutors to ensure the delivery of high-quality teaching. As a dedicated educator, I find great satisfaction in interacting with my students and guiding them to develop self-learning skills and achieve personal growth.
Q2. Please describe your residing location in three words.
- Maggie: Vibrant, multicultural, scenic. Melbourne is famous for its lively culture, diverse arts scene, and bustling street life. The city truly embraces and celebrates its cultural diversity. Located among beautiful landscapes, Melbourne offers a visually stunning environment. It’s a place where residents can enjoy a serene and visually appealing backdrop.
- William: Suburban, residential yet convenient. Ibaraki is a suburban area in Osaka Prefecture known for its residential neighbourhoods offering a quieter and more peaceful atmosphere compared to the bustling city centre. Its convenient transportation network allows for easy commuting to work or exploring other parts of the region.
- Kelly: Emerald, cosmopolitan, and hi-tech. Seattle is blessed with lush green surroundings. Its natural beauty offers a captivating sight. Apart from being a cosmopolitan hub in the Pacific Northwest, the city also houses some of the world’s most influential tech companies. This solidifies its reputation as a leading force in technology.
Q3. Which industry do you see strong business potential in your residing location?
- Maggie: Australia is known for its environmentally friendly and organic image. Industries like health and wellness, beauty and skincare, and mother and infant products are of strong potential. With its significant international economic connections, there are abundant opportunities to incorporate diverse cultural perspectives in different sectors.
- William: The healthcare and social service industry holds significant business potential in Osaka Prefecture, and in Japan as a whole, due to the high number of elderly individuals living alone. Any business that caters to the needs of this demographic has a promising market in this area.
- Kelly: The education industry has strong potential here. Seattle is home to a highly educated population and creates a demand for continuous learning and upskilling. The prestigious universities attract global talents, and the influx of students creates a demand for educational services, leading to opportunities for educational services and training providers.
Q4. What is the one thing you miss the most during your study at CUHK Business School?
- Maggie: I miss the close bond with my schoolmates. From rushing for the school bus, exploring the canteen and spending time in the library, those memories hold a special place in my heart. Even now, some of the most important relationships are with those who were part of my IBBA journey.
- William: The thing I miss the most during my study at CUHK Business School is the quality of lectures and discussions among fellow students. The campus provided a conducive environment for learning, and the interactions with professors and students greatly enhanced the educational experience.
- Kelly: I certainly long for the cherished moments I shared with my classmates and teachers. The breathtaking scenery is also something memorable. Although I did not have the opportunity to visit the library, I look forward to exploring it when I travel to Hong Kong in the future.
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 Website, abridged with permission from the School’s Alumni Affairs and Development Office.