Ready to catch the tech wave

The digital landscape is evolving unprecedentedly, and three CUHK Business School alumni are embracing the dynamics. With a shared belief in the transformative power of technology, they are not just observing the changes around them but also actively shaping their industries to better serve their clients and communities.

Terence Cher (EMBA 2005)
Director of Brand, International, Arizona State University
Phoenix, the US

Vincent Hui (PACC 2010)
Senior Tax Manager, PwC
Munich, Germany

Victor Leung (MBA 2019)
Client Architect, Thought Machine
Singapore


Q1. Could you briefly describe your current job scope or responsibilities?

  • Terence: I am responsible for developing a framework to globally communicate the university’s brand and values. My role involves strategically positioning the university in the international education landscape, guiding future directions, and collaborating with internal and external stakeholders to implement a comprehensive global brand management plan.
  • Vincent: As a German tax advisor, I provide guidance to corporate clients, particularly international investors in Germany, on matters related to local tax regulations. My primary focus is on tax issues related to M&A, tax planning for inbound investment in Germany, tax consideration for restructuring, and developing tax-efficient business structures.
  • Victor: I collaborate with senior stakeholders to understand business needs and design scalable, cloud-native core banking solutions and smart contract frameworks. I provide consulting services for digital transformation projects, resolve technical issues, and offer client training and support. Additionally, I work closely with engineering and product teams to ensure high-quality deliverables.

Q2. Which industry do you see strong business potential in?

  • Terence: The technology industry shows strong business potential in Phoenix. The city is emerging as a tech hub, attracting startups and established firms with support from various organisations. Academic institutions provide a steady supply of skilled graduates crucial for tech workforce expansion. Its quality of life, including a lower cost of living and appealing climate, enhances its attractiveness for tech professionals, supporting recruitment and retention efforts.
  • Vincent: I believe the biotechnology and semiconductor or information technology (IT) sectors hold strong business potential. Germany boasts world-class research institutes and a deep talent pool in biotechnology, making it a prime location for collaboration and growth. Meanwhile, the semiconductor and IT industries are expanding rapidly, with multinational corporations increasing their footprint in Munich and other regions.
  • Victor: Singapore boasts a strong potential for financial technology or fintech. Its robust financial sector, supportive regulatory environment, and strategic position as a global financial hub create fertile ground for fintech innovation. The government’s proactive stance on digital transformation, coupled with a highly skilled workforce and advanced technological infrastructure, further drives growth in this sector.

Q3. How is the life in the city where you live now?

  • Terence: Phoenix enjoys a bright and warm climate with more than 300 sunny days annually, fostering an outdoor lifestyle. The city boasts unique natural beauty with its picturesque cacti, rugged mountains, and breathtaking sunsets. As one of the fastest-growing cities in the US, it attracts new businesses, cultural venues, and opportunities, making it a vibrant place to live and work.
  • Vincent: Munich is the capital of Bavaria, one of Germany’s 16 federal states. It embodies Bavarian culture in every aspect, from its history and dialects to its cuisine, fashion, design, and architecture. Germany is home to many different nationalities living together in harmony. It places a strong emphasis on environmental protection and a high awareness of sustainability issues.
  • Victor: Singapore is an efficient city known for its rapid growth and constant evolution. Its diverse culture is a melting pot of traditions, offering a rich and inclusive environment. As a global hub, Singapore embraces multiculturalism, fostering a harmonious blend of different ethnicities and traditions, making it an exciting place full of opportunities.

Q4. What is the one thing you miss the most during your study at CUHK Business School?

  • Terence: I miss my EMBA cohort and faculty the most. I treasure the friendships, knowledge, experience and challenges we shared, especially in maintaining a work-life-study balance, which prepared me for post-graduation assignments and empowered me to contribute effectively to diverse teams. I particularly appreciate the I-Ching module, which remains relevant in my life today.
  • Vincent: The relationships I formed with people – whether fellow classmates, professors, or staff – were incredibly supportive and meaningful. I look forward to connecting with more great individuals from CUHK, not just those I already know but also alumni from around the world.
  • Victor: I miss the most the MBA study trip to Germany, Chile, Japan, and Korea. I look forward to experiencing those immersive cultural and business learning opportunities again, exploring diverse markets, and building international connections, but this time with a focus on applying the insights gained to real-world business challenges.

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The interviews first appeared in CUHK Business School Alumni Website, abridged with permission from the School’s Alumni Affairs and Development Office.