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14 Apr 2022, 01:00
| FROM CUHK: A “Time Speculator” Yielding Positive-Sum Gains in Medicine and Research |
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Henry has spent most of his life practising medicine and conducting research, completing one ten-year plan after another. Although he is presently working as the Deputy Chief Hospital Manager of Union Hospital, he continues to maintain his clinical practice and research. He said, “Financial speculators use other people’s capital to maximise profits. I leverage other people’s time to create positive-sum outcomes.” Compounding Strengths to Realise Possibilities A prolific researcher, Henry has been rated as a “Most Highly Cited Researcher” by Clarivate Analytics for several years in a row, and he has bagged a slew of international awards. Despite his constant immersion in research as well as his clinical and management work, he does not consider himself a workaholic. He said he achieves work-life balance with the support of the others. In his words, “In management, doing things alone is a bad strategy. It is better to leverage the strengths of others with wisdom and tact.” Most of his current research papers are the fruits of productive collaborations between local and international teams. “If you want to ‘profit’ from other people’s time, you must make sure they also receive a reasonable return on their investment. That’s how you maintain a long-term win-win partnership.”  “It is impossible for one person to complete all the work. It is better to capitalise on the capabilities of others, ensuring that everyone receives a reasonable return on investment and maximises gains collectively,” says Dr. Henry Lik-yuen Chan (EMBA 2014), Deputy Chief Hospital Manager of Union Hospital. “To successfully reap the benefits of time capital investment, Henry claimed that one must remain perceptive of the macro environment. A forward-facing strategy to earn the respect of teammates and win them over is also important. Thus, when he formulates his work plans, he always ensures that he factors in some potential bottlenecks: “I only want my team to spend 80 percent of their capacities in daily work, so that they can conserve spare resources to deal with unforeseen problems.” For example, during his time at the CUHK Faculty of Medicine, the hospital introduced a device to measure liver fat, attracting a significant and unexpected amount of interest from the public. His team therefore used the 20 percent of time they spared to establish a hotline to handle the influx of enquiries they received. In the eyes of his subordinates, he is an agile and loving supervisor, and his management style was indeed evolved from his experience. Put Ego Aside and Win Others Over with Virtue A graduate of the CUHK Faculty of Medicine, Henry has consistently developed 10-year plans for various phases of his life. He revealed that at the time he had decided to specialise in hepatology, he was not particularly enthusiastic about the field. To him, hepatology research was just a means by which he could build a reputation for himself in the world. Interest, he felt, was something that could be fostered over time. While others marvel at his stellar rise and the rich returns he yields on his investments, Henry admitted that “expecting to fail” was a constantly turning cog in the back of his mind. “The success of any scientific researcher is built on previous failures. There is no need to be afraid of failing; what matters most is what you learn from the experience.” With this motto spurring him on, he never blames his team for their mistakes. Instead, he believes that leaders should be cautious about exalting themselves to an unhealthy extent. “One of my most important mentors is Professor Anna Lok, a world-renowned hepatologist in Michigan, U.S.A. During a business trip, she inspired me even a super-competent person should not to be hard on oneself. In addition to being confident, one must also learn to trust our teams.” Internalising such mentality, Henry insisted to maintain his clinical duties even till today in order to stay attuned to the needs and feedback of the frontline staff.  Henry has a distinct management philosophy. He encourages his teams to learn from their mistakes and creates opportunities and platforms for ideas exchange. Joining Management to Live Out His Passion and Mission Speaking about the prospects for Hong Kong’s medical research and healthcare development, Henry said that the two sectors remain on drastically divergent paths. “The cost of basic scientific research rises by the day, and yet, the resources that Hong Kong allocates for this type of research remains limited. Doctors at universities must also perform a large amount of clinical work, leaving them with just half of their time to devote to research. On the contrary, the healthcare quality in Hong Kong is among one of the world’s best, and there is immense room for further development with Hong Kong’s continued integration with the Greater Bay Area.” Henry joined Union Hospital with the intention to promote healthcare development and to continue his mission to care for the sick. While hospital management and planning entails work that extends beyond the scope of doctors’ professional expertise, he is grateful that he had enrolled in the EMBA programme several years ago to enhance his capabilities and broaden his horizons. “The programme allowed me the opportunity to learn from various industries and apply their best practices for healthcare management and operations.” Encouraging other alumni and students of CUHK Business School, he said, “Start with what you’re good at. This will lead to some small successes. Set goals, make good use of your time and strive towards the fields you are most passionate about. Don’t undervalue yourself, but don’t grow complacent either. Maintaining this mindset will propel you towards greater success.” First published in the CUHK Business School Alumni Portal on 10 March 2022 and the iMoney magazine on 19 March 2022, this article was republished with permission from the School’s Alumni and Corporate Affairs Office. The post A “Time Speculator” Yielding Positive-Sum Gains in Medicine and Research appeared first on CUHK Business School. |
24 Apr 2022, 20:00
| FROM CUHK: CUHK MiM Forum 2021-2022: Inspiration from the Leaders’ Road to Success |
Infusing the event with inspiring leadership wisdom were honourable speakers including Ms. Marie Claire Lim Moore, Chief Executive Officer, TransUnion Hong Kong; Dr. Paul Sin, Director of Technology and Transformation, New World Development Company Limited; Mr. Steve Tsang, Chief Financial Officer, Asia Pacific, SSP Group Plc.; and Mr. Gabriel Kung, Chief Commercial Officer, Bowtie Life Insurance Company Limited.   In his opening keynote, Prof. Lin Zhou, Dean of CUHK Business School, set the scene for the day by expressing his gratitude to the guest speakers for their support to the School and their inspiration for MiM students. He encouraged students to probe the valuable insights shared by the speakers and learn from their recipe of becoming a visionary and inspiring leader. Prof. Dora Lau, Director of MSc in Management Programme and the Associate Director of Centre for Entrepreneurship, encouraged young participants to seize the unique opportunity to learn first-hand how the business leaders charted their ways to leadership and rose to the challenges, both professionally and personally.  Prof. Dora Lau, Director of MSc in Management Programme and the Associate Director of Centre for Entrepreneurship Adeptly juggling between career and family, Ms. Marie Claire Lim Moore, CEO of TransUnion Hong Kong, shared not only how she strived to live her life with purpose, but also how purpose worked in an organisation and helped it build resilience in the long term. Flashed back to his journey from a Management Trainee to now an executive, Mr. Gabriel Kung, CCO of Bowtie Life Insurance Company Ltd., pointed up his most important learning was: never be complacent, be persistent, learn from others and face every possible risk and difficulty. The forum was also joined by two active alumni of CUHK Business School. Dr. Paul Sin (MBA 2002), Director of Technology & Transformation at New World Development Company Limited, opined that every encounter could be a worthy cause and illustrated this with his own path to success, which was far from an open highway but a zigzag across technology, consultancy and financial services over different regions. Mr. Steve Tsang (MBA 2014), CFO, Asia Pacific of SSP Group Plc., highlighted a myriad of skills core to leaders and shed light on mindful leadership and the importance of being an effective coach.     The post CUHK MiM Forum 2021-2022: Inspiration from the Leaders’ Road to Success appeared first on CUHK Business School. |
30 Apr 2022, 19:00
| FROM CUHK: A New Kind of Student |
 Magdalena Sofía Montenegro Reyes Year 3 Student Integrated BBA Programme “Coming from Chile to Hong Kong was an opportunity for me to become a more global professional. In CUHK, you can join activities like cultural encounters outside your major. CUHK also encouraged me to develop passion projects, such as creating ThinkOcean CUHK and joining the Diversity and Inclusion Committee. I really appreciate the professional development opportunities at CUHK. You can meet with career coaches, practise interviews, join mentorship programmes, etc. I got my first-ever internship at an edge tech company called eSix through the university’s Entrepreneurship and Innovation Minor Programme. My second internship at Farandole came by chance through networking. It has been really fun to learn about NFTs as well as wine and spirits investments, especially now that this technology is booming! I am now doing a one-year exchange at the Durham University in the UK to learn about the local culture and to get out of my comfort zone. Durham University has over 200 societies, from football club to instant noodles society. I joined the Latin Social Dance Society and the Women in Business Society, and the experience is amazing! So be curious and take every experience as a learning opportunity!”   Henry Lam Year 3 Student CUHK-IE BBA Dual Degree Programme “The CUHK-IE BBA dual degree offers unique opportunities to learn from two top business schools. On top of what I have learned in CUHK, my two-year experience at IE Business School in Spain has honed my entrepreneurial skills. The courses here have a practical focus. As a student consultant for Ricola, I provide innovation and product development ideas for Hospital La Paz, the largest hospital group in Madrid. It’s my pleasure to be recognised by the IE Honours programme for being the top 5% of the university and be chosen as the IE Case Competition Team. At CUHK, I am a project manager in BESGO (Business Education for Social Good) who promotes social entrepreneurship and ESG to students. As a GLEAM (A Group of Learning Enhancement Ambassadors) ambassador, I help new students adjust to university life and develop my mentoring skills at the same time. Being a student assistant for several professors also widened my knowledge in the academic field! University is an opportune time to explore your possibilities. Be open to challenges and grab every chance you get!”   Judy Li Year 3 Student Global Business Studies Programme “Though the pandemic has wrecked our campus lives, I still had great fun by joining different student clubs and meeting new faces at CUHK. I kicked off my university journey with an orientation trip to Seoul with my batchmates. With all the marvellous and meaningful activities, we formed strong bonding with not only each other, but also the programme director and managers. Being the President of Strategic Investment Society, I met like-minded companions and we hosted career events for our members. I also joined United College’s Debating Team as I have been an enthusiastic debater since high school. It’s my honour to be awarded the Champion, Best Debater, and Most Popular Debater awards in one of the debates! I am particularly grateful for the scholarships I received at CUHK and beyond. To pass on educational success, I set up a platform on HKDSE study tips called “DSE 5 Sing Sing”on Instagram and “Study with Judy” on YouTube in Year 1. Wanting to deepen my marketing knowledge, I am honoured to land an internship at UBS this summer to gear myself up for the vibrant business world!”   Claire Zhao Year 3 Student Professional Accountancy Programme “In the Co-op@CUHK programme, we learn how to equip ourselves to meet workplace standard by taking up full-time work placement with full credit and full pay. My co-op journey has been fruitful and inspiring, and helps me further explore my career potential and possibilities. Living in Chung Chi College, I enjoy the most convenient hall location and the many activities it offers – such as the Host Family Caring Programme, the Mentor Programme and the English Table. To diversify my cultural experiences, I also joined virtual exchanges to take courses offered by Nanyang Technological University in Singapore and Peking University. Beyond my campus life, I spend a lot of time exploring Hong Kong. Since Year 1, I’ve tried hiking, cycling, mountain climbing and kayaking. The beauty of Hong Kong’s natural scenery is really impressive. I love my CUHK life and can’t wait to start my next exploration!”   Vivian Ma Year 7 Student Hotel and Tourism Management Programme “I started cycling at the age of 15. With CUHK’s support, I took a gap year to become a professional cyclist for Hong Kong. I still remember the moment which we came second in the Jakarta Asian Games 2018. I am truly grateful for this life-changing experience! After going back to CUHK, I gained industry experience through internships and case competition. I spent last summer interning at Swire, where we were able to apply textbook theories to real-life situations. Through case competitions, we can also practise our research, financial modelling and presentation skills. Our team was the 1st runner up in the Cornell International Real Estate Case Competition 2021. Special shout-out to CUHK professors, advisors and alumni for the guidance during training! CUHK offers students many overseas learning opportunities, enabling us to experience a different style of education and meet new friends from diverse backgrounds. I am currently studying at Cornell University in the United States for one semester.”  COVID has upended one’s life routines and reshaped the education and business landscapes. It is also a time which one recognises the importance of a close-knit community – a support system that enables the university and its students to thrive intellectually and socially. The world may never be the same again after the pandemic, but the School’s vision and our people’s passion for shaping a better tomorrow will stay unchanged. We #LookForward to welcoming you at our beautiful campus again in the near future. Thinking of advancing yourself in the new normal? Explore what’s in your future with CUHK Business School’s programmes. Learn more The post A New Kind of Student appeared first on CUHK Business School. |
02 May 2022, 20:00
| FROM CUHK: CUHK Business School and CIMA Sign Partnership Agreement for CGMA ®Finance Leadership Program and Awards |
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The programme will be offered to CUHK students of all Business Undergraduate programmes, Business Postgraduate programmes and alumni from these programmes who graduated within two years. Under the partnership agreement, CUHK students can sign up for the FLP at a preferential rate in the first year and stand a chance to receive the CGMA Finance Leadership Awards, which offer a one-year programme subscription, covering materials, assessments and exam fees. “The pandemic and technological disruptions have propelled us to reimagine business education. We are excited to join hands with CIMA to offer a new digital programme for our students and alumni to hone their leadership skills, taking our long-standing partnership with CIMA to the next level,” said Prof. Lin Zhou, Dean of CUHK Business School. “Being the first business school in Hong Kong to offer the CGMA Finance Leadership Awards, we hope to encourage our outstanding students to seize the opportunity to build their capacity to become competent leaders in the finance industry.”  Prof. Lin Zhou, Dean of CUHK Business School (upper left); Prof. Seen-Meng Chew, Associate Dean (External Engagement) of CUHK Business School (bottom left); Mr. Paulus Chau, Director, Hong Kong and Emerging Markets, CIMA (upper right); Ms. Patti Ho, Lead Manager, Business Development, Hong Kong and Emerging Markets, CIMA (bottom right) Structured with real-life case simulations, the FLP offers a mix of finance, accounting, leadership and digital skills in demand to help students stay ahead in the industry. On successfully completing the programme and fulfilling the practical experience requirements, students can earn CIMA© membership at either the ACMA or FCMA level in addition to the prestigious CGMA® designation, accelerating their professional development worldwide. The post CUHK Business School and CIMA Sign Partnership Agreement for CGMA ®Finance Leadership Program and Awards appeared first on CUHK Business School. |
16 May 2022, 01:00
| FROM CUHK: Straddling Polarities to Help Hong Kong Creativity Soar Again |
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Having spent over two decades in the business, Alexis has seen the industry both at its prime and its nadir. He has risen to the trials and tribulations of the times and recently that of the pandemic. Despite the turbulence the industry has undergone over the past years, his passion for advertising is undimmed: “We are always juggling between being rational and emotional, innovative and prudent and going macro while staying micro to resolve for innovative solutions. We embrace challenges to help creativity in Hong Kong reclaim its former sparkle.” Nothing Is Impossible in This Fascinating Industry Alexis said he has long been enthralled by the advertising industry’s allure. “I joined the industry at its heyday. At the time, advertising received world-class resources and support and people flocked to work for advertising agencies. The situation was similar to today’s investment banks and consulting firms, where openings are highly sought-after.” With the opportunities being so precious, everyone gave their all. “We were always chasing deadlines, obsessing over every detail of the content to produce exceptional work. I still remember there were rumours of ghosts in the office, yet no one was terrified even when they had to work till late night. All they cared about was, ‘I’m very busy, don’t mess with me!’.” As Alexis recounted these days of “fighting” hard for the job, the corners of his lips turned up. “Interestingly, people not only worked hard, but they also played hard and let loose their best creative potential,” added Alexis, sitting in an office filled with limited edition figures, cross-over playthings and proud collections. He said that the company’s executives used to go on vacation every year to the global CEO’s overseas castle and chart out the following year’s plans. The colleagues would keep a cat in the office or bring their pets to work. He once arranged a “Bark You Up at 6:45pm” Campaign to send a dog mascot out to the office to urge everyone to just go home (Corresponding to the Cantonese saying, “to close the gates and let the guard dogs out”, which means when the dogs are out, it is time to close for the day). It seemed as if any whimsical thing could happen in this space.  Alexis (centre right, holding the award) and his team go all-in at work and at play. This has enabled them to create many extraordinary results. Honing Tenacity and Creativity Besides working hard and playing hard, people in the industry often have to straddle two polarities. Understandably, the industry is intrinsically bound to commercial considerations and rational assessments and analyses. But advertising ultimately must also be able to move people with a human touch and emotional connection. To stand out, advertisements need to be bold and innovative and have a macro vision to lead the markets. At the same time, they must maintain a delicate sensibility to cover all bases. “I don’t consider this a dichotomy. Rather, it serves as a reminder to take the best care of everything while being well-prepared.” In creative undertakings or in running a business doing creative work, relying on rational analysis may not always be the best approach. As cliché as it may sound, sometimes “following your heart” might just lead to better, if unexpected, outcomes. As a case in point, he talked about how when he needed to manage and integrate the projects of new subsidiaries, he would rationally see that the business figures were unideal. However, his intuition would drive him to try something new, such as letting young leaders flex their ingenuity and vision for the future and venturing into new areas of business. The results were often surprisingly good. When faced with the challenge of losing clients, Alexis would not simply cling on to his existing territory, but would actively seek out further business opportunities. “Traversing these polarities enables us to build up our resilience and creativity. It also prompts us to step ahead and seize both current opportunities and future trends. Such an attitude helps us tackle any adversity with greater strength and vitality.  “People working in advertising often have to straddle two polarities. It helps us build up our stamina, creativity and resilience, and enables us to tackle any adversity with greater strength and vitality,” said Alexis Chiu (BBA 1997), the Chairman of the HK4As and Group Managing Director of Saatchi & Saatchi Hong Kong. Going Far with Advertising As the chairman of HK4As (The Association of Accredited Advertising Agencies of Hong Kong), Alexis aspires to introduce more young people to the magical charm of the advertising industry and attract them to partake in the sector. These new talent will not only bolster Hong Kong’s soft power but will also help push the industry forward. “By working hard, holding firm in their resolve, refusing to be boring and always maintaining a ‘why not?’ attitude, they will open new frontiers beyond their imagination.” Besides a mission to transform the industry, Alexis is also championing HK4As’s diversified development. This includes incorporating more local cultural elements into the Kam Fan Awards to better meet the needs of the next-generation clients; and launching a talent development scheme to empower young people and help them gain job satisfaction and social value. He also encourages his peers to adopt an international perspective while tapping opportunities in the region. “Set your eyes on the business opportunities and resources in the Greater Bay Area—the region is brimming with advanced technologies. These areas need to be explored for exchange and collaboration opportunities so that Hong Kong’s advertising talent can broaden their growth.”  During his BBA studies at CUHK, Alexis was already determined to join the advertising industry to showcase his creativity. Alexis was grateful to the CUHK Business School’s liberal culture for instilling in him a sense of action and mission. “I still remember professors encouraging us to think outside the box when we made the class presentations. For this reason, I sought the help of my friends from the arts and performing arts to help me in the creation of storyboards and videos. Those were thoroughly enjoyable experiences.” The breadth of the BBA curriculum also enabled Alexis to gain important management knowledge in areas such as operations, collaboration and strategic thinking. “Since that time, I’ve lived by the credo of staying ahead and staying creative. It’s still driving me forward till this very day.” First published in the CUHK Business School Alumni Portal on 7 April 2022 and the iMoney magazine on 23 April 2022, this article was republished with permission from the School’s Alumni and Corporate Affairs Office. The post Straddling Polarities to Help Hong Kong Creativity Soar Again appeared first on CUHK Business School. |
26 May 2022, 21:01
| FROM CUHK: Led the way in CSR accounting research – First in Hong Kong to receive the world-renowned award |
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Selecting from papers published in the past 5 to 15 years, the Award was created to recognise accounting research of exceptional merit that has significantly impacted the discipline and withstood the test of time. Since its launch in 2010, it is the first time the prestigious award is received by academics in Hong Kong. Published in 2011 and co-authored by Prof. Dan S. Dhaliwal, Prof. Oliver Zhen Li, Prof. Albert Tsang and Prof. Yang, the award-winning paper Voluntary Nonfinancial Disclosure and the Cost of Equity Capital: The Initiation of Corporate Social Responsibility Reporting was one of the earliest to lead the emerging wave of accounting research on corporate social responsibilities (CSR). In brief, the paper set out to examine a potential benefit associated with the initiation of voluntary disclosure of CSR activities: a reduction in the cost of equity capital. With a citation of 3,224 times, the paper is one of the top three accounting academic journals of The Accounting Review and has contributed tremendously to later research on CSR among the accounting and finance academics. “I learned a great deal working with my wonderful co-authors, Dan, Oliver and Albert. It was an exciting journey to bring our shared mission to life to raise awareness on CSR issues in the discipline. The process not only helped me gain tremendous growth on the path of academic research but also memorable friendship,” shared, Prof. Yang. Founded in 1916, the American Accounting Association is the premier community of accountants in academia built on leading-edge research and publications. The post Led the way in CSR accounting research – First in Hong Kong to receive the world-renowned award appeared first on CUHK Business School. |
30 May 2022, 01:01
| FROM CUHK: CUHK Business School Students Outshine 800 Contestants at Global Markets Competition |
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This year, a total of 864 undergraduate and postgraduate students across the globe teamed up and constructed investment pitches to compete in the preliminary simulation. 82 finalists then took on an advanced sales and trading simulation to compete on an individual basis. Out of 15 CUHK students who made it to the Grand Final, Elson Chan (QFIN Year 2) won the overall championship, receiving a cash prize and a fully sponsored placement in Amplify Trading’s Summer Training Programme. Adding to the list of outstanding performers, Thomas Chan (QFIN Year 2) was ranked Top 10, while Chun-ching Wong (QFIN Year 1), Christine Fung (IBBA Year 2) and Sammy Chim (GBS Year 2) were ranked Top 20. Students’ sharing: Elson Chan (QFIN Year 2): “I am honoured to receive the grand prize in this competition. It was a remarkable experience to conduct global macro research and construct a sell-side pitch to potential investors. The competition not only allowed me to apply my financial knowledge, but also experience the role of sales trader and hedge fund manager. The simulation was intense, and I could feel the pressure of making every trading decision. CUHK has greatly supported us to explore our talents outside the classroom, so we are able to get a good grasp of the financial world. ” Thomas Chan (QFIN Year 2): “It was a great experience for me and my teammate to conduct a detailed analysis and formulate our investment strategy. Simulating the role of a market maker allowed me to leverage my financial knowledge and make calculated decisions to maximise commission and return. This experience enabled me to develop a comprehensive understanding of the financial market and has imbued me with practical market sense.” Chun-ching Wong (QFIN Year 1): “Through the competition, I have learned how to facilitate client orders and manage portfolio risks. I have gained first-hand experience and an overview of the job duties of a trader, which helped me to discover my interest in pursuing a career in sales and trading.” Christine Fung (IBBA Year 2): “This competition has enriched my understanding of the financial market and the various roles in an investment bank and buy-side in the financial market. This experience helps me put my textbook knowledge into practice in the ever-changing market. I am now confident to devote myself to the financial world after graduation.” Sammy Chim (GBS Year 2): “During the competition, I composed a sell-side pitch of S&P 500 Index-related trade ideas specialised in the technology industry and ESG theme. It was a valuable opportunity to connect what I learned from lessons to the real world. As a student passionate about investment, this excellent result gives me more confidence and courage to pursue a career in finance.” The post CUHK Business School Students Outshine 800 Contestants at Global Markets Competition appeared first on CUHK Business School. |
31 May 2022, 20:01
| FROM CUHK: Unexpected Turns in the Life That Made the HKMA’s Chief Executive |
He revealed that he was actively involved in social services during his time at the university, and always wanted to cultivate a people-oriented career after his graduation. Drawing an analogy between a fortuitous life and driftwood in a river, he remarked that a simple decision could change one’s course in life. Eventually, Eddie took an opportunity to join the government and built his career with the HKMA, serving the public by steering Hong Kong’s financial industry. Eddie Yue, who took his post on 1 October 2019, emphasised that the HKMA’s top priority is maintaining Hong Kong’s financial stability. Born into a humble family, Eddie grew up with seven siblings in a few-hundred-square-feet unit at Tai Hang Tung Estate. Later, the family moved to Lek Yuen Estate in Sha Tin and faced pragmatic schooling choices. “Sha Tin was a new town with limited choices for school. I searched along the railway line. In the end, I applied for the Diocesan Boys’ School (DBS), given its decent reputation and proximity to a train station.” Back then, most DBS students set their sights on entering the University of Hong Kong. Serendipitously, Eddie chose the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK). “DBS had always given us plenty of freedom—we could study an A-Level, or self-study a Higher-Level. I gave the latter a go. With surprisingly good results, I was admitted to the Department of Biochemistry at CUHK. At that time, a senior told me it was easy to transfer from biochemistry to medicine and I had aspired to become a doctor. Besides, living in Sha Tin, I often wandered around the CUHK campus and was captivated by its natural scenery. Its strong humanistic culture and the sincerity of its students led me to study at CUHK in the end.” Broadening Horizons at CUHK Life is defined by unpredictable events. Soon after Eddie embarked on his journey at CUHK, its policy changed and no longer allowed students to transfer their major from biochemistry to medicine, leaving Eddie at a crossroads. “If I chose to continue with the Biochemistry Programme, my career options after graduation would be very limited as biotechnology wasn’t popular back then. I had only two options. First, I could retake the A-Level exam. However, I was only left with a few months before the exam, being December at the time, so I thought the grades would not be up to the right standard. Alternatively, I could change my major and that’s what I did.” Setting his heart on changing his major, Eddie considered the Social Work Programme given his experience in the CUHK’s Social Service Team. “The team was divided into two groups according to personal interests: one focused on social policy research and the other on practical work. I chose the latter and volunteered at St. Christopher’s Home. This had a huge impact on me. We often say, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ Serving as a volunteer helped me to profoundly understand the meaning of this. Regardless of their position, people can bring hope to the receivers and even change lives.” Although highly interested in social work, Eddie understood that his introvert personality might not fit for frontline work. Besides, he had practical concerns. “I came from a low-income family. I had the chance to attend university only because I was the youngest and my siblings were supporting the family. Employment prospects were key to my decision.” Considering the heavy burden of family and the wider career options offered by studying business, he decided to pursue an interview with the Business Administration Programme. Eventually, he was admitted into the BBA Programme. His four years at CUHK, as Eddie explained, left an indelible mark on his personal growth. “The most prominent gain was my intellectual curiosity, which broadened my horizons. In addition, CUHK provided a unique General Education Programme which allowed me to make full use of the credits for studying the subjects I was most passionate about and gain insight into multiple fields. I still remember that there were many cultural magazines placed outside the room of Student Union in the Benjamin Franklin Centre, such as City Magazine and City Entertainment Magazine, which nourished my curiosity away from the selection at the university library. These experiences at CUHK had a lasting impact on my life.”  Graduation photo of Eddie (second from the right) and fellow CUHK students.  Eddie (right) receiving the Bang How Memorial Scholarships from the Chung Chi College. Giving His All for Tasks, Big or Small After graduation, Eddie became a trainee manager at a British bank. After two to three months of training, he was assigned as a teller of the branch in Pak Tin Estate, Shek Kip Mei. He was full of confidence, until he was confronted with the difficulties that all the frontline staff had to face. Neighbouring a street market, they had to deal with cash in all kinds of conditions, including those that were wet. “During the training, I thought I had mastered cash counting, only to discover that my skills were far from adequate on the frontline. I recall a time in the first week of work when we failed to reconcile the bank balance at the end of the day, so everyone had to stay behind to conduct a recount. In the end, it was me that had counted a hundred dollars less! My mistake led to the ‘detention’ of all my colleagues. That was the moment I realised that for whatever task, big or small, I must be highly attentive and give it my all.” As time went by at the bank, Eddie began to notice that his fellow graduates in other organisations would work late every night, while he always got off work on time. “It was comfortable at first, but with time, it occurred to me that I should stretch myself while I’m still young.” With this in mind and the timely opportunity of becoming an administrative officer in the government, he embarked on a new journey of challenges. The first one and a half years in the Kwun Tong District Office were truly rewarding. “The government was tearing down squatter structures in Cha Kwo Ling Village. The standard procedure for squatter control units started with removing the rooves. However, there was a household that could not afford to move at all, so they had to stay home even when rain was pouring down indoors. Witnessing this, I negotiated with the Housing Department until we found the family temporary residence. Being able to help others at work was deeply gratifying. That’s the beauty of life—who would have thought, that someone who hadn’t opted for social work study ended up being a ‘social worker’ in the District Office.” Stepping into the Financial World Administrative officers are often rotated around different posts. In 1991, Eddie was assigned to the Office of the Exchange Fund, although—as he shared—he knew little about finance at the time. He struggled with grasping complex financial terminology and even note-taking. The only thing he could do was to learn on the job and supplement this with a master’s degree in economics. When the HKMA was established in 1993, Eddie joined it as a founding member and has been working there ever since.  Eddie (middle) accompanying Mr. Joseph Yam (left), the incumbent Chief Executive of the HKMA in 1994, on an overseas business trip for the first time. When asked if he would remain permanently at the HKMA, Eddie disclosed that there was a time he had had second thoughts. Even as a student, he had never really planned his future or career. Rather, he “drifted along with the flow”. In 1995, he decided to take a break and reflect on his life. He ended up applying to the MBA Programme at Harvard University to fulfil his dream of studying abroad. “I got to know friends from all over the world. It broadened my horizons and revealed the boundless potential I could have in my career.” After graduation, Eddie decided to return to the HKMA. This puzzled his friends, as he had embarked on this journey, just to return to where he started. “In fact, the two years away provided me with endless possibilities. After gaining new perspectives and reviewing my options, I made the well-considered decision to stay at the HKMA, convinced it was a job I could undertake for the rest of my life.” Being Prepared and Decisive Eddie returned to the HKMA as the administrative assistant to its then Chief Executive, Mr. Joseph Yam. It was 1998 when the Asian financial crisis hit, and the Hong Kong dollar was under heavy speculative attack. Severe market disorder prompted the government to intervene. He recalled that he learned a lot from Yam at that time. “Mr. Yam often said, ‘Urgent matters should be dealt with slowly.’ The tenser one feels, the easier it is to lose control. Even on the last day of the intervention, when a significant amount of foreign reserves had to be used to counter speculators, Mr. Yam stayed perfectly calm the entire day. Later, at the financial crisis of 2008, I stood firm on the principle ‘preparing for danger in times of safety’, and my colleagues and I had full sets of plans ready for all possible scenarios well before the crisis hit.” Having worked with the first two chief executives of the HKMA, Mr. Joseph Yam and Mr. Norman Chan, and witnessing how they devised strategies and commanded, Eddie learned that maintaining Hong Kong’s financial stability was – and is – the top priority of the HKMA. These first-hand experiences also made him more determined to always be prepared and vigilant for any eventuality. After successfully tackling the two financial crises, Eddie was appointed Chief Executive of the HKMA on 1 October 2019. He faced a serious challenge from week one: an Emergency Regulations Ordinance was invoked in Hong Kong on 4 October, which led to a flood of rumours on social media, claiming that the Linked Exchange Rate System would collapse and calling upon people to withdraw their bank savings. “Recognising how influential social media can be in spreading fear, we needed to counter the rumours as quickly and accurately as possible, to prevent further speculation that may harm people’s confidence in the financial system. We set up an instant messaging group among the HKMA executives and colleagues from the Communications Division where we worked out strategic responses to the rumours. In two or three hours, the rumours were quelled. We had also asked younger colleagues for advice on making the posts more relevant. The decisiveness and teamwork spirit of the HKMA shone throughout the operation.” Equipping Oneself with Soft Skills Eddie believes soft skills hold more importance than specific knowledge. For students wishing to enter the finance industry, he has three pieces of advice to impart: “Firstly, you must be interested in your potential job, and not just let the salaries be the deciding factor. Out of passion for finance, even after 20 years at the HKMA, I still feel refreshed and excited about work every day. Secondly, the finance industry today is not limited to professional knowledge in accounting, financial analysis and so on. Instead, it has expanded to new fields such as fintech, big data and green finance. Thus, one should expand their knowledge base before entering the industry to gain a competitive edge. Lastly, as a people-oriented industry, finance requires its practitioners to show empathy when interacting with other people, instead of only thinking from one’s own perspective. These skills might not be learned from books, but can be acquired through experimenting, experiencing, and practicing.”   Eddie Yue delivering the opening keynotes at the Hong Kong FinTech Week 2020, held online. He announced the new fintech strategy for Hong Kong (photo 1), and moderated the online panel discussion between central bankers, exploring the roles of central banks in leveraging economic benefits and managing risks in the digital economy (photo 2). (In photo 2, the panellists from left to right are Mr. Agustín Carstens, General Manager of the Bank for International Settlements; Mr. Yi Gang, Governor of the People’s Bank of China; and Mr. Klaas Knot, President of De Nederlandsche Bank, and Chair (then-Vice Chair) of the Financial Stability Board.) This article first appeared in CU Alumni Magazine (March 2021 Issue), republished and translated with permission from Alumni Affairs Office, CUHK. The post Unexpected Turns in the Life That Made the HKMA’s Chief Executive appeared first on CUHK Business School. |
12 Jun 2022, 16:01
| FROM CUHK: CUHK Business School Remains the 33rd Worldwide in the Financial Times Masters in Finance 2022 – Pre-experience Programmes Ranking |
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Amidst the set of ranking measures, CUHK Business School’s MSc in Finance continues to achieve outstanding results in a few aspects of alumni career progress. In the “Careers Service” ranking, the programme came 4th globally (from 5th in 2021), retaining 1st in Asia for the second consecutive year. This shows the effectiveness of the programme’s careers service in terms of career counselling, personal development, networking events, internship search and recruitment, as rated by the alumni. The programme has also remained strong as 2nd in Asia in the ranking of “Alumni Career Progress”, which assesses the professional growth of alumni three years after graduation. The survey respondents reported 59 percent salary rise on average since graduation. Prof. Joseph Cheng, Director of MSc Programme in Finance (Full-time) is pleased with the result, “We are honoured to be recognised again as one of the world’s top Pre-experience Master’s Programmes in Finance with remarkable results in our career support services. It is a testament to our continued commitment to equipping our students with the right skills and knowledge to lead a rewarding and successful career.”     Financial Times defines pre-experience programmes as those aimed at students with little or no professional experience. The rankings are based on information collected from business schools and their alumni who completed their degrees three years ago (in 2019). For more details, please click here to read the full Financial Times Masters in Finance 2022 – Pre-experience Programme ranking results. The post CUHK Business School Remains the 33rd Worldwide in the Financial Times Masters in Finance 2022 – Pre-experience Programmes Ranking appeared first on CUHK Business School. |
14 Jun 2022, 20:01
| FROM CUHK: Jumpstarting Young Entrepreneurs’ Dreams as the Greater Vision |
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Since becoming the Executive Director of the Alibaba Hong Kong Entrepreneurs Fund (the Fund) in 2015, Cindy has been more of a changemaker than a venture capitalist. During the interview, she emphasised the need to change the I&T ecosystem to nurture more innovative talents for Hong Kong and advocate for an entrepreneurial spirit. “Having a bold vision is vital. It will spur progress, instil optimism and shine a light on a brighter future.” A Trailblazer’s Commitment Cindy has mentored and cultivated a slew of Hong Kong start-ups. She is also a trailblazer who dares to dream of a better future and follows up with positive action to turn it into a reality. Before joining the I&T sector, she worked at major accounting firms, listed companies and managed a green-field telecom project in Mainland China. After observing the I&T industry’s explosive growth, she joined Alibaba as its Senior Director of Finance. When the company decided to invest HK$1 billion to establish the Fund and help young people realise their dreams, Cindy, sharing the same vision, stepped forward to take on a leadership role. “Even the loftiest ambition must be realised on the ground. I was born and raised in Hong Kong and be familiar with Alibaba’s culture and mission. I feel I’m in a position to help realise the Fund’s vision.”  “Any start-up, venture capital fund or business must have a bold vision. It will spur progress, instil optimism and shine a light on a brighter future,” shared Cindy. The Fund was rolled out in 2015, the same year the Hong Kong SAR government set up the Innovation and Technology Bureau. Cindy recalled how tough it was to promote I&T back in the day. I&T development was still in its nascent stages, and many start-ups lacked not only capital but also family understanding and social recognition. To transform this culture, Cindy and her team initiated a series of efforts, beginning with talent cultivation. Over the years, the Fund has invested directly in nearly 60 start-ups. Since 2017, collaboration has been made with Cyberport and HKSTP to organise JUMPSTARTER, a global pitch competition, and promote innovation in e-commerce, smart city, AI, and other emergent tech fields. Responding to a shortage of mentorship and business development channels, the Fund has been organising monthly gatherings for investors and start-ups to exchange ideas and explore collaboration opportunities. It has also helped universities industrialise their research findings. Despite the enormity of the undertaking, Cindy seemed unfazed. “This is how leaders give back to their communities. I’ve benefited from the many doors that my mentors, friends and forerunners have opened. I hope that young people will also receive society’s support to pursue their dreams.” Cindy encourages everyone to value and respect others’ individuality. Her leadership style, marked by her approachability, reflects this: “People have always been the most important factor in everything we do. As leaders, we must first ‘listen’ to others’ ideas and ‘empower’ colleagues to accomplish their jobs. We must also be ‘accountable’ for our decisions, never pass the buck to others and be resolute in making ‘decisions’. That’s what the word ‘lead’ is truly about.” Shifting Circumstances, Unwavering Commitment Having observed and experienced the start-up sector for years, Cindy opined that the keys to start-up success are vision and agility. “During the pandemic, many start-ups encountered immense challenges. In general, those who have overcome adversity have a clear vision and the courage to pivot their business when circumstances change. For example, one start-up specialising in accounts receivable financing pivoted away from their offline business because of the pandemic. They began focusing on Amazon’s and Alibaba’s platforms and referencing from customers’ consumption habit to perform credit risk assessment. As a result, the business not only survives but also managed to grow during the very difficult period.” With the government investing more resources and strengthening the policies for I&T, the number of start-ups in Hong Kong increased by nearly 70% between 2016 and 2021. Some traditional enterprises, attracted by the favourable returns in I&T or spurred by their own need for digital transformation, have also increased their investments in start-up projects. These positive developments, coupled with the propitious developments in the Greater Bay Area, make Cindy optimistic about the future of the sector. However, she reminded entrepreneurs to stay true to their aspirations and be clear about their values and goals: “The GBA presents a massive market as well as fierce competition. Yet, there is also a greater supply and demand for talent. Start-ups must flex their uniqueness and seek breakthroughs to achieve their goals.” Giving Back and Promoting Collaboration Cindy has leveraged her experiences at CUHK Business School to encourage young entrepreneurs to enhance their competitiveness and expand their support networks. “The broad-based design of the BBA programme and CUHK’s liberal arts education helped me appreciate the complementary and collaborative nature of different fields. The friends I made at CUHK have been a huge source of support for me throughout my career.” When she launched JUMPSTARTER, Cindy relied on the help of her classmates who worked for major corporations for sponsorships and participation. It was also a means of introducing start-ups and I&T to the broader society. “Many young entrepreneurs have also expressed a need for mentorship guidance. The Business School’s many outstanding alumni could consider sharing their experiences with start-ups so that they can benefit from them.”  Cindy relished her campus experience. She is keen to give back to her alma mater by helping CUHK students in their innovative pursuits. As a member of CUHK’s Global Alumni Advisory Board, Cindy is happy to utilise her experience to promote academic research and the commercialisation of research findings: “I hope that the Fund can foster more successful start-ups to help young people see additional career paths and possibilities. For me, I will actively promote I&T in academia to inject greater diversity into the economic structure of Hong Kong.” First published in the CUHK Business School Alumni Portal on 5 May 2022 and the iMoney magazine on 21 May 2022, this article was republished with permission from the School’s Alumni and Corporate Affairs Office. The post Jumpstarting Young Entrepreneurs’ Dreams as the Greater Vision appeared first on CUHK Business School. |
16 Jun 2022, 03:01
| FROM CUHK: CUHK Business School and Microsoft Hong Kong Join Hands to Nurture Future Ready Digital Talent |
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The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) Business School and Microsoft Hong Kong have formed a strategic partnership to nurture the development of digital skillsets that will be vital for future success in business. CUHK Business School is the first business school in Hong Kong to become a Certiport Authorised Testing Centre, where students can obtain industry-recognised Microsoft Certifications starting in the new academic year, available to over 3,000 CUHK Business School students. The partnership gives CUHK Business School students access to Microsoft Fundamentals courses designed to equip them with in-demand digital skills in fields including AI, big data and the cloud. Training will be administered through the Microsoft Learn online platform. Upon successful course completion and passing the required assessments, students will be awarded with industry-recognised certifications. With access to the education resources in Microsoft’s AI Business School, CUHK Business School will orchestrate digital transformation elements in its curriculum design, business case development and academic research enhancement. CUHK Business School students will also have the opportunity to participate in capstone projects, chartered by Microsoft Hong Kong or its key partners or customers, to translate their knowledge and skills into innovative business solutions in practice. “As a pioneer in business education in Asia, we are excited to partner with Microsoft to nurture a new generation of tech-savvy leaders ready for the future of work,” said Prof. Lin Zhou, Dean of CUHK Business School. “We are proud to be the first business school in Hong Kong designated as a Certiport Authorised Testing Centre to allow our students to acquire the in-demand industry-recognised certifications. The partnership is a testament to our commitment to developing relevant and competent talent and building the digital capabilities of our students to contribute to the digital transformation across different sectors in Hong Kong and beyond.” Cally Chan, General Manager of Microsoft Hong Kong and Macau, added, “As digital transformation gathers pace, business leaders need to be increasingly adept in AI, data science and cloud computing. Microsoft understands that developing a transformation strategy extends far beyond business and technology to leadership and organisational capabilities. Microsoft certifications encompass both the technical and strategic side of transformation, empowering people with practical insights for their unique journey. We are thrilled to support the future-readiness of Hong Kong’s brightest talent through this partnership.”  (From Left to Right) Prof. Seen-Meng Chew, Associate Dean (External Engagement) of CUHK Business School, Prof. Lin Zhou, Dean of CUHK Business School, Cally Chan, General Manager of Microsoft Hong Kong and Macau and Mr. Fred Sheu, National Technology Officer, Microsoft Hong Kong, announced the “Strategic partnership to nurture elite digital talent” today. About CUHK Business School Established in Hong Kong in 1963, CUHK Business School is the first business school to offer BBA, MBA and EMBA programmes in the region. The School currently has more than 4,500 students and the largest number of business alumni (40,000+) in Hong Kong. About Microsoft Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT” @microsoft) enables digital transformation for the era of an intelligent cloud and an intelligent edge. Its mission is to empower every person and every organisation on the planet to achieve more. The post CUHK Business School and Microsoft Hong Kong Join Hands to Nurture Future Ready Digital Talent appeared first on CUHK Business School. |
23 Jun 2022, 22:01
| FROM CUHK: MiM Students Reimagine Banking in the Metaverse as the Greatest Team in BOCHK Challenge |
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This year, BOCHK Challenge (the Challenge), the annual competition organised by Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited, tasked the participants to apply cutting-edge technologies to improve customer experience and operational efficiency of the financial industry. With the belief that technology will take centre stage in the banking industry, the DreamMeta team, composed of Vera Yang, Hannah Boon, Edwin Mak and Rayden Qiu from MiM, impressed the judges with their vision of a ‘BOCverse’, in which the ways banks connect with their clients and employees are reimagined in a new digital age. “When we prepared the proposal, we came to realise the challenges that traditional banks may encounter as they go through digital transformation. With ‘BOCverse’, we hope that we can resolve their pain points and change the future of banking experience.” Vera shared.  CUHK Business School students seized two awards at BOCHK Challenge 2021-22. “I am so proud that our hard work has come to fruition.” Edwin cherished, “Everyone on the team is very creative in our own ways. One of the greatest challenges is to encapsulate all the different ideas we brought to the table into the final proposal.” Rayden added, “Edwin and I had a debate on whether we should build a whole new metaverse or leverage other existing platforms. I think we managed an effective discussion, putting different perspectives together to arrive at the best solution.” Savouring the moments which concluded the “fulfilling, enjoyable and unforgettable” journey on a high note, Hannah recalled, “Our final pitch manifested our teamwork, enthusiasm and passion. We have learned so much from each other and absolutely from our generous mentors.” Dr. Toa Charm, Associate Professor of Practice in Management and Director of Business Development, The Asia-Pacific Institute of Business, and Prof. Tina Choi, Adjunct Associate Professor, Department of Management, were mentors of the DreamMeta team. Prof. Choi shared the pride of her students, “During the training, the team stood strong with grit and resilience when I hammered out the creative and interactive way of presentation with them again and again. Their perseverance and commitment shaped them into a truly cohesive team and made a strong impression on the judges. ‘Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity’, once again, congratulations to the team.” The post MiM Students Reimagine Banking in the Metaverse as the Greatest Team in BOCHK Challenge appeared first on CUHK Business School. |
24 Jun 2022, 01:01
| FROM CUHK: CUHK EMBA Ranked Top 5 in Asia Pacific in the QS Global Executive MBA Rankings for 6 Consecutive Years |
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Over 190 EMBA programmes in the world were ranked this year, 26 of which are joint EMBA programmes. CUHK EMBA Programme scored 73.4 overall, and ranked 8th (3rd in Asia Pacific) in Diversity among the world’s standalone EMBA programmes. The ranking combines input from thought leaders in business and management alongside the perceptions of global employers who recruit from the world’s best EMBA programmes, and is further enhanced by programme-specific indicators. Data is collected from two long-standing QS surveys – the QS Global Employer Survey and the QS Academic Survey, accounting for 30 percent and 25 percent of the ranking weight respectively. The responses from these surveys span a total of five years, with responses from more recent years in greater weighting. In addition to these surveys, schools were asked to submit data relating to their EMBA programmes covering a variety of topics. Executive Profile, which includes average years’ work experience, managerial experience, and c-suite experience make up 15 percent of the ranking weight. Career Outcomes make up 20 percent of the ranking weight, which includes salary uplift within a year of graduation, as well as the percentage of students who are promoted within a year of graduation. The remaining 10 percent of the ranking weight is Diversity of class, which includes both the representation levels of women and number of nationalities among the programme’s students. Please click here to find out more about the rankings. The post CUHK EMBA Ranked Top 5 in Asia Pacific in the QS Global Executive MBA Rankings for 6 Consecutive Years appeared first on CUHK Business School. |
29 Jun 2022, 03:01
| FROM CUHK: CUHK Business School Undergraduates Crowned Champion at TIHK Tax Debate Competition 2022 |
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Since its induction in 2015, TIHK Tax Debate Competition provides a platform for students to bring their perspectives from the lens of tax professionals to the latest and emerging trends in taxation. This year, students were tasked to discuss the impact of an array of taxation policies on the sustainability and long-term development of Hong Kong. The winning team comprised Alice Wing-man Tam (IBBA Year 4), Cherry Cheuk-yiu Ho (HRE Year 2), Henry Yat-hei Wong (PACC Year 1) and Peter Pui-lung Wan (PACC Year 4). Henry Wong was also awarded the Best Debater Award. Each team member is awarded with internship placements at “Big 4” (the largest accounting and professional services firms, i.e. EY, Deloitte, KPMG and PwC), a cash prize and fee exemption of Chartered Tax Adviser Examination. Let us hear what the team members would like to say about their experience: Alice Wing-man Tam (IBBA Year 4): “Never have I ever been through an exciting experience like this. The debate topics were thought-provoking and highly relevant.” Cherry Cheuk-yiu Ho (HRE Year 2): “Thanks to the effort of my wonderful teammates – it was really exciting to win the championship. Special thanks to Dr. Butt, who relentlessly inspired us with his compelling ideas and professional knowledge.” Henry Yat-hei Wong (PACC Year 1): “I would like to express our sincere gratitude for all the support given by the School of Accountancy of CUHK Business School, especially Dr. Butt. The opportunity to scrutinise different tax issues and the insights shared by the judges after every debate definitely benefited us all round.” Peter Pui-lung Wan (PACC Year 4): “This competition was a valuable opportunity to sharpen my public speaking and communications skill, which is vital for me as a professional-accountant-to-be.” The team’s coach, Dr. YY Butt, Associate Director of the Professional Accountancy (PACC) Programme, commented, “The team members were very passionate. They spent numerous hours in research on various tax policy proposals and rigorously analysed the imperatives and implications. Their brilliant execution during the competition was well rewarded.” The post CUHK Business School Undergraduates Crowned Champion at TIHK Tax Debate Competition 2022 appeared first on CUHK Business School. |
30 Jun 2022, 18:00
| FROM CUHK: Always on the Lookout for Opportunity |
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Leaping from Singapore to Hong Kong Born in Singapore to her parents from Hong Kong, Yee Yan spent her childhood listening to her parents reminisce fondly about their days in their native place. Their stories inspired a desire in her to visit their roots ever since. While researching universities overseas for her higher education, she discovered the new BBA-JD programme at The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK). The programme would grant her both an undergraduate and a postgraduate degree upon graduation, also allowing her to rediscover her roots. Because of her outstanding academic achievements in Singapore, she was admitted to CUHK Business School with a full-tuition scholarship. Since Yee Yan arrived in Hong Kong to pursue her dream in 2017, she has retraced and retrodden her parents’ footsteps, scoured the little nooks and crannies of the city and compared notes with them. “It has brought us all much closer. They bring me a piece of their past and I bring them a piece of the present.” Her insights as a Singaporean studying abroad even found a larger audience. When she was in Year 2, she was invited by Channel U in Singapore to share her CUHK and Hong Kong experience with the wider Singaporean community.  Yee Yan embraces the opportunities to explore natural gems in Hong Kong. Although Singapore and Hong Kong share many similarities as international financial centres, Yee Yan found their differences to be like night and day. She admired how Hongkongers, including her classmates, were “plugged into” the financial scene, and how Hong Kong’s tenacious spirit of entrepreneurship sparked in times of crisis. “The people in Hong Kong are extremely adaptable and are always on the lookout for the next hustle. It’s something that I aspire to be as well.” A Natural Trailblazer This enterprising and trailblazing spirit that she so greatly admires is in fact already ingrained within her. She chose CUHK’s inaugural business and law programme for the immense opportunities and challenges it promises its students. “I was drawn to the BBA-JD programme because it was the first of its kind in the university. All established programmes have their own inaugural moments, a set of pioneers who continued developing the programme until it was in its optimal state. I want to be one of those pioneers for the BBA-JD programme.” It would not be an understatement to claim that Yee Yan thrived personally and professionally in this environment. Within two years, she won five additional scholarships. She also took advantage of what the university and Hong Kong had to offer – opportunities that are often hidden in plain sight – and unlocked a “challenging, inspiring and exciting” undergraduate experience for herself.    “I won’t say that it’s been a bed of roses. I’ve had my fair share of challenges, but I have only grown into a more well-rounded person because of it. Being in a small programme with strong camaraderie supported me greatly, because I always knew my batchmates would be there for me.” She continued, “Beyond this, I’ve also had several inspiring and exciting experiences over the years, especially before the pandemic hit.” Uncovering Hidden Gems One of Yee Yan’s most memorable experiences was attending the University Scholars Leadership Symposium in Bangkok, an opportunity that she met with in rather unusual circumstances. “I was poring over a mass mail to students when I noticed an advertisement tucked in a tiny corner of the mail. The United Nations Humanitarian Affairs was inviting students to a one-week international leadership symposium in Bangkok, and CUHK offered to reimburse students for their trip. It was an amazing start to my learning experience at CUHK.” The symposium was most definitely an eye-opener for Yee Yan. Around one thousand young leaders of 60 countries gathered to discuss humanitarian affairs and drive social change. Yee Yan was inspired by the trove of ideas presented by the delegates, particularly those offered by Glitter Girls, a US group that organises trips to care homes to volunteer manicures and pedicures to senior citizens. “I had volunteered quite a lot in senior homes, and we would almost always follow a set of routine during our visits. Glitter Girls made me realise that we had been constrained by what we had done before and never really explored what they would have liked or needed. It was humbling.” After returning to Hong Kong, Yee Yan and her CUHK friends started Haircuts for Love. Together, they assembled a group of 15 local and international student volunteers to provide haircuts at care homes. The unique volunteering programme equipped ordinary university students with hairstyling skills and saw widespread participation from senior citizens.    Living Her Undergraduate Life to the Fullest Determined to live her student life to the fullest, Yee Yan embraced CUHK’s gamut of learning, exchange and internship opportunities to broaden her horizons. At school, she deliberately chose classes to acquire the digital skills that future business leaders need. She signed up for the Business Information Systems course, where she learnt to build data visualisation graphs with Power BI. When she went on an exchange at the University of Southern California in the US, she enrolled in a class to learn Python. “I took advantage of the wide array of courses available and joined a chess class as well. It was a very interesting experience. We had to play against our professor during exams, and our grades were based on how close we came to beating him.”   To enrich her undergraduate experience beyond academia, Yee Yan completed several internships at renowned international financial institutions and law firms, including HSBC Singapore, J.P. Morgan, Slaughter and May and Morrison & Foerster. She also signed on as a peer English tutor and a treasurer of the University YMCA. Yee Yan was grateful that her CUHK mentors were there to help her navigate the learning journey. She particularly respected Prof. Andy Wong, the former Associate Dean (Undergraduate Studies) (now CUHK’s Director of Admissions and Financial Aid). “He was very down to earth with his students and always had time to talk. Our conversations were not limited to school. We spoke about philosophy, life and practical advice for my future. He put everything into perspective for me. I am very glad that I met him at the stage that I did.” Stay Inquisitive, Stay Ready Reflecting on her vivid experiences, Yee Yan expressed her gratitude for the cultural encounters she could avail herself of. “I was truly fortunate to have had these kinds of opportunities with generous financial support from the university. As I keep telling my juniors, just keep an eye out, because there are opportunities for you everywhere.” Yee Yan offered three tips for anyone who wishes to make the most of their time at CUHK: “Look around. Walk around. Ask around. You can always learn a lot by asking questions and being curious about things that nobody expects you to be curious about. That’s what I live by.” Presently nearing the end of her five-year journey, Yee Yan plans to stay in Hong Kong for two more years to train as a solicitor at an international law firm first. “The world is changing at a pace that makes it difficult to chart out any long-term plans. It was only five years ago that I decided to come to Hong Kong, but it feels like a lifetime has passed between then and now.” True to her style of keeping her mind open, she added, “I’ll just go with the flow. I’ll look at the choices available and make the right decisions then.”  Thinking of advancing yourself in the new normal? Explore what’s in your future with CUHK Business School’s programmes. Learn more The post Always on the Lookout for Opportunity appeared first on CUHK Business School. |
06 Jul 2022, 02:00
| FROM CUHK: Thriving with Digital Agility |
 Zilong Chen (MSc ITM 2021) Lark Digital Consultant, ByteDance Shenzhen, China  Sherrie Ling (BBA HTM 2015) Senior Client Success Manager, iClick Interactive Asia Group Limited Seoul, South Korea  Alex Cheung (MSc FIN 2021) Associate (Transaction and Investment Management), Victoria Asset Management London, The United Kingdom Q1. What is your role in your organisation?
Learn more The post Thriving with Digital Agility appeared first on CUHK Business School. |
06 Jul 2022, 04:00
| FROM CUHK: CUHK Business – July 2022 |
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Our Research  Innovation & Technology Digital Red Packets and the Power of Sharing Online By Prof. Lin, Lisa Ya Research study finds that digital red packets are most useful as a tool for companies to gain new and retain existing customers when they are allowed to be shared on social media.  Innovation & Technology Can Robots Be Used to Obtain Honest Customer Feedback? By Prof. Wan, Lisa C., Prof. Choi, Sungwoo CUHK research collaboration with leading robotics pioneer and Hong Kong hotel suggests service robots can help gauge customer satisfaction.  Consumer Behaviour How Marketers Can Leverage on the Power of Comparison By Prof. Shen, Hao CUHK research using Chinese data illustrates that consumers prefer products that elicit competence when comparing to peers who are better off, and vice versa  Consumer Behaviour Sitting on a Gold Mine: Do People Spend More When Home Prices Rise? By Prof. Yang, Yang (Zoe) CUHK research finds that housing price appreciation leads to higher online consumption, less payment hesitation, less order returns and more online shopping activity during work hours. Our People  Alumni Story Meeting Market Appetites with a Distinctive Tam Jai Taste Daren Lau (OneMBA 2011), the Chairman, Executive Director and CEO of Tam Jai International Co. Ltd., has successfully capitalised on an online fad with the noodles shop and turned it into branding gold, catapulting this Hong Kong brand to greater prominence both locally and abroad.  Faculty Story An All-Round Educator Pays it Forward From her BBA, MPhil and PhD studies to her current position as an associate professor at the School of Hotel and Tourism Management, Prof. Lisa Wan’s life has an inextricable connection with CUHK Business School.  Alumni Story A Global Citizen’s Quest to Step Out, Step Up and Step Ahead Deric Stephane Toche Foka (MSc in ITM, 2021) is constantly stepping out of his comfort zone to become “existentially flexible” in a rapidly changing world.  Alumni Whereabouts Thriving with Digital Agility Living in a digital age, aspiring alumni of the CUHK Business School set eyes on opportunities beyond traditional boundaries and triumph by tapping into rising trends outside of Hong Kong. Our Happenings
 Read Online Download PDF Want even more insights? Subscribe to the monthly digest of China Business Knowledge and our biannual CUHK Business School magazine now! About CUHK Business CUHK Business School’s magazine CUHK Business provides a platform to inform readers of selected business topics and school updates through articles written by staff and guest writers. Situated at the world’s doorway to China, with a well developed foundation in business education and research, CUHK Business School has a unique role in nurturing business leaders of tomorrow. We hope you will find the articles interesting and stimulating. The post CUHK Business – July 2022 appeared first on CUHK Business School. |
10 Jul 2022, 22:00
| FROM CUHK: CUHK Business School Receives AMBA Re-accreditation |
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Upon receiving AMBAaccreditation, all current MBA students and recent MBA alumni of CUHK Business School are invited to join AMBA’s global member community of more than 60,000 students and alumni in more than 150 countries on a complimentary basis, for networking, thought leadership, career development, and a variety of benefits. Accreditation from AMBA represents the highest standard of achievement in post-graduate business education. Its rigorous assessment criteria ensure that only the highest-calibre programmes which demonstrate the best standards in teaching, curriculum, and student interaction achieve Association of MBAs accreditation. Prof. Lin Zhou, Dean of CUHK Business School, takes pride in the school for receiving the prestigious accolade. “This is a testament to our world-class teaching and research excellence, and our commitment to developing best-in-class, socially responsible business leaders. Our leading network of over 40,000 alumni in 49 countries will continue to encapsulate the best of the East and the West to reshape the future of business.” Andrew Main Wilson, Chief Executive of the Association of MBAs and Business Graduates Association (BGA) said, ‘I would like to congratulate everyone at the CUHK Business School who worked towards this re-accreditation. The Business School has an impressive international presence and truly adds to our network of the top 2% of Business Schools globally.’ The post CUHK Business School Receives AMBA Re-accreditation appeared first on CUHK Business School. |
18 Jul 2022, 03:00
| FROM CUHK: Going Beyond the Low-Hanging Fruit and into the Next Century |
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Taking the Road Less Travelled Looking back at his career, Andy mentioned that when he started his entrepreneurial journey, start-ups were few and far between. Support was scarce, let alone guidance or mentorship. All he could do was toughen up, press ahead and learn from trial and error. According to him, entrepreneurs must always be prepared for failure. He has first-hand experience with investors pulling out and having to let go of dozens of teammates. Despite these challenges, Andy never thought of giving up, because he had long decided to shoot for the stars. “It is easy to go back to working for others and enjoying a stable and high-paying job, but, as in the story of The Three Little Pigs, if you could dig in and power through the most difficult obstacles, the path will become smoother.” Many start-ups focus on a specific field to make financing and development easier to manage; but Andy takes a different view: “If entrepreneurs put all their eggs in the same basket, they would have a hard time bouncing back in times of adversity.” As a case in point, Andy said Richard Branson, the founder of the Virgin Group, owns more than 400 companies. “Investors, of course, prefer entrepreneurs to be focused on their business, which is relatively easy to do. Yet, rather than having to seek external support when the going gets rough or having to risk being overwhelmed by macroenvironmental changes, I prefer to create an ecosystem of complementary businesses.” Presently, Andy’s company is involved in data analytics, digital marketing, microinsurance and other businesses. He is also the co-founder of a company that engages in ESG businesses, which he expects to be a trend to stay.  Andy is intent on fostering a digital media ecosystem. He has already moved towards emerging tech applications such as NFT, blockchain and InsurTech. Adopting the Long View and Creating Long-Term Value Andy chose the path of entrepreneurship because he enjoys creating something from nothing and generating new value. To him, entrepreneurship is more than about immediate gains. “Too many people equate entrepreneurial success with company valuation; but becoming a unicorn shouldn’t be the only metric for success. Entrepreneurs should be able to look farther ahead than most other people.” He recalled visiting Guinness’ original brewery in Dublin after he graduated with his EMBA: “When I saw that Arthur Guinness signed a lease with the government for 9,000 years, it inspired me to take the long view. While this may make things more difficult, the mindset has helped me go farther and faster. In fact, half of my current business portfolio is geared towards future market opportunities. We’re even looking into trends that may shape the coming century.” On the day of the interview, Andy’s company concluded an NFT project for a local bank. It was just another success story of Andy getting ahead of the game. “These experiences motivate my team and me to keep pushing forward. As a matter of fact, I have already prepared a press release for 2030 as we are tapping into the mega-trends of blockchain and microinsurance.” In terms of I&T development, Andy thinks ESG will still play a central role, but its ultimate success will depend on how well financial systems, private enterprises and innovative ideas work together. As for blockchain and AI, he said their success will be determined by whether the two technologies can strike a balance between centralisation and decentralisation. In the face of immense competition and opportunities, both within and outside the region, Andy believed that start-ups should look ahead with not only depth but also breadth. “I always stress that start-ups should position themselves for the international market right off the bat. They should consider returning to the comfort zones of Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area only after tackling the broader market. Prioritising what is difficult over what is simple is the only way in which they will avoid being easily crushed by their competitors. The I&T environment in Hong Kong is quite good. It is an international financial centre with a wealth of talent having global perspectives. If start-ups have a mature entrepreneurial mindset, they will achieve twice the results with half the effort.”  “Entrepreneurship is about going beyond the low-hanging fruit and shooting for the stars. It is by choosing to tackle the most difficult area that your persistence will be meaningful. Because if you succeed, you will have made history,” shared Andy. Claiming First-Mover Advantage and Making History A few years after embarking on his entrepreneurial journey, Andy decided to enrich his business knowledge by enrolling in the EMBA programme of the CUHK Business School. In addition to learning from professors and classmates from various professional backgrounds, he received support for his ventures from the strong EMBA alumni network. After graduation, he actively participated in and served the CUHK EMBA Alumni Association. Two years ago, he even became the President and rallied alumni to give back to the community. “There are many influential figures from a variety of industries in the EMBA programme. That’s why I wanted to encourage everyone to contribute their strength and help the less fortunate among us and give back to society.” Andy advised alumni who want to start their businesses to stay optimistic and be prepared to rise to the occasion: “If entrepreneurship was easy, everyone would be doing it. The reason your toil and persistence are meaningful is because this is a difficult path to walk on, and if you succeed, you will have made history.” First published in the CUHK Business School Alumni Portal on 9 June 2022 and the iMoney magazine on 18 June 2022, this article was republished with permission from the School’s Alumni and Corporate Affairs Office. The post Going Beyond the Low-Hanging Fruit and into the Next Century appeared first on CUHK Business School. |
28 Jul 2022, 21:00
| FROM CUHK: CUHK MiM Capstone Blazes a New Trail for Overseas Wedding |
Kicked off in April, the Capstone Project commenced six skill workshops virtually to hone the skills of MiM students. With leading industry experts in Hong Kong and Japan, the two-month training took the students on a journey from cracking a case effectively, revealing hidden customer needs, adopting the right consulting tools to presenting a compelling, client-centric solution online.   At the Business Conference on 6 May, MiM students enjoyed a thought-provoking dialogue with Ms. Casey Chow from ESD Services Limited (ESDlife), delving into her first-hand experience and the latest developments in the wake of the pandemic, and more importantly, the emerging trends and upcoming opportunities in the wedding industry. Months of dedication was concluded on a high note on 9 June, as the MiM students teamed up to present their proposals to representatives from Primrose Garden. Judges were impressed with the industry insights and the creative yet practical solutions the students brought to the table. Dr. Anson Au Yeung shared, “I am impressed by how creative the students are in applying their knowledge obtained in class to solve practical cases. The Capstone Project is a unique experience. It calls for intensive, active listening and collective wisdom to understand complex business issues from multiple strategic perspectives. I hope the experience will serve to remind the students the importance of listening and staying humble.”       Winning teams and students include:       Let’s hear some of the MiM students’ sharing on their experiences in the Capstone Project:  The Capstone Project was undoubtedly the best way to conclude our wonderful MiM journey. It was amazing to see how far everyone has come since the beginning. I would like to give special thanks to Prof. Dora Lau, the MiM Team, teaching assistant Zhang Xin, and all the mentors that helped us throughout this project. Without their assistance and guidance, we wouldn’t have been able to complete it as successfully as we did. — Edwin Mak Awardee of Best Speakers  “The MiM Capstone has provided me with a very valuable opportunity to apply what I have learned in MiM programme to a practical project. It challenged and strengthened my skill to communicate internally within the team, and externally across cultures and languages. Successful and effective communication played a key role in my Capstone journey and will support my future development.” — Zhi-zhou He Champion team The post CUHK MiM Capstone Blazes a New Trail for Overseas Wedding appeared first on CUHK Business School. |
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