CUHK EMBA Annual Conference 2026
On 9 May 2026, the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) Executive MBA Programme (EMBA) gathered more than 230 EMBA participants, alumni, faculty, industry leaders and government officials at the Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong for the CUHK EMBA Annual Conference 2026.
Under the theme “Innovate to Lead – Agile Leadership in Shaping the Future of Hong Kong and Beyond”, attendees explored how modern leadership must adapt to a landscape of rapid technological and economic change. The conference featured insights from prominent figures who shared their perspectives on inclusive growth, scientific discovery and operational agility.
Inclusivity as Business Strategy
Opening the evening’s discussions, The Honourable Paul Chan Mo-po, GBM, GBS, MH, JP, Financial Secretary of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, highlighted that true inclusivity drives sustainable business growth. He emphasised that artificial intelligence should serve as an amplifier of human capability across the workforce, urging that the fruits of innovation be broadly shared across society. He closed with a memorable call to action: “grow the pie together, and make sure we cut it well.”
Cultivating an Innovation Mindset
Reinforcing this call to action, Professor Dennis Lo, SBS, JP, Vice-Chancellor and President of CUHK, discussed the disciplined approach required for scientific breakthrough. He emphasised that innovation relies on a mindset that stays alert to extraordinary potential within everyday research and commercialisation processes.
Navigating “The Next China”
The discussions then shifted to the practical tools that leaders need to navigate regional markets. Mr Joe Ngai, JP, Chairman of McKinsey Greater China, offered an optimistic outlook on “The Next China” — a term describing the next phase of the region’s economic growth, driven by innovation and high-quality development. He asserted that long-term success requires strategic clarity and an unwavering focus on enduring opportunities.
The Science of Agility
Dr Malina Ngai, JP, Group CEO of AS Watson Group, presented agility as a precise science. She introduced a specific formula highlighting that true agility is achieved by redesign systems to eliminate drag:
Net Agility = (Strategic Clarity x Capability) – Organisational Friction
She pointed out that only by minimising internal friction and administrative red tape can a company maximise team capacity and accelerate its responsiveness to the market.
Celebrating 33 Years of Legacy
The 2026 conference also marked a significant homecoming for the CUHK EMBA community, highlighting its 33-year history of nurturing business leaders. The strong turnout from various alumni classes and university heads underscored the strength of the programme’s unified network.
The successful execution of this year’s event was driven by the dedicated efforts of the organising committee, led by Macy Chan and Michael Chan from the Class of 2026. Their exceptional coordination allowed the community to reconnect and realign on future leadership goals.
