Congratulations to our HKU teams for winning the First Place, Third Place and Best Presenter in 2024 ISM-HK Student Case Competition!
The ISM-HK Student Case Competition is an annual competition hosted by the Institute for Supply Management Hong Kong (ISM-HK). The competition aims to empower students to discover the latest and upcoming trends in Supply Chain & Procurement.
This year, ISM-HK has collaborated with HKU Asia Case Research Centre and Cathay Pacific to present a real-life case on supplier risk management with sustainability as the key theme. A total of over 350 students from various universities in Hong Kong, Australia, Canada, China, India, Indonesia, and Singapore participated in this year competition.
Top 5 finalist teams showcased their solutions to distinguished panel of judges from renowned companies such as AS Watson, Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong Jockey Club, HSBC, Li & Fung, Lululemon, Mars, Microsoft, MTR, Richemont, Schneider Electric and World Green Organization. Our students have demonstrated exceptional problem-solving skills and won First Place, Third Place and Best Presenter in the competition.
“The ISM-HK Student Case Competition offered me a precious opportunity to network with supply chain professionals and experts, gaining insight into how they approach similar complex problems that involve sustainability, supply chain, corporate risk, and various departments within the company. Such complicated problems often involve cooperation and understanding to mitigate and solve them, in which we learnt greatly from the judges and other teams’ presentations.”
(by Miss Ho Lucine Tsz Ying)
“The ISM-HK Student Case Competition opened a new door for me in the supply chain management and procurement sector. Previously, I had never worked on any supply chain–related cases, and this certainly helped me formulate a high-level overview of how an aviation company’s backend supply chain functions. Huge thanks to the judges’ reflections in the semi-finals and the finals who raised important questions to help us construct a more comprehensive solution in solving supply chain related issues.”
Congratulations to our students for winning Champion, 1st Runner-up and Merit in HKSI Institute Case Competition 2024!
The HKSI Institute Case Competition is an annual business competition organised by the Hong Kong Securities and Investment Institute (HKSI Institute). The competition aims to nurture young talents in the financial services industry and equip students with practical skills as well as exposure to professional community.
The theme of this year competition is Sustainability. Collaborating with 20 sponsoring companies, HKSI Institute presented participants with real-life sustainability and finance-related cases for research and case cracking. In the final round, the 5 finalist teams presented their initiatives for developing Hong Kong as a new sustainable finance hub.
From the pool of 103 teams with over 250 student participants, our students stood out by demonstrating their exceptional presentation and case cracking skills, and won Champion, 1st Runner-up and Merit in the competition.
(The team comprises 1 other team member from other Faculty of The University of Hong Kong.)
1st Runner-up
Team Name: Synergy Strategies
Team Members:
Miss Cheung Lok Ching, BBA(IBGM), Year 1
Mr. Fan Ka Kiu, BBA(IBGM), Year 1
Miss Lo Nikkia, BSc(MAT), Year 1
Merit
Team Name: Landing Consulting
Team Members:
Miss Xu Meiyi, BBA(Law)&LLB, Year 5
(The team comprises 1 other team member from other Faculty of The University of Hong Kong.)
Student Sharing:
“For my teammate, Alastair, and I, the competition was unknowingly an extremely fruitful experience where we learned more about the real estate industry (preliminary round), sustainability reporting, and sustainable finance. In the semi-final round, through brainstorming initiatives to develop sustainable finance in Hong Kong, we learned more about unique financial products, environment law, and a plethora of other topics that seemed unrelated at first. Next, after pitching our deliverable to judges from financial institutions, ESG consulting firms, and the Securities and Futures Commission, the panel interview gave us invaluable insights into Hong Kong’s developing initiatives and how the city is approaching developing sustainable finance.
Our highlight of this competition is definitely getting to meet our amazing project sponsors, Ms Michelle Wong and Mr Kenneth Cheng from PricewaterhouseCoopers, where their guidance exceeded the scope of this competition. Whether it be for my personal career development or learning – we thank both our mentors and HKSI for hosting such a successful competition.”
(by Mr. Kim Seungwoo)
“When I initially encountered the case question, I must admit that I felt a sense of intimidation, as the concept of green sustainable finance has always appeared complex to me. However, upon reflection, I am sincerely grateful for this competition, as it has provided me with a valuable opportunity to gain insights into Hong Kong’s ongoing initiatives and accomplishments in the field of green sustainable finance. Not only were we able to assess the current market performance, but our endeavour to identify the obstacles hindering Hong Kong’s progression as a leading green sustainable finance hub also enabled us to develop a profound understanding of the existing market landscape.
Another noteworthy aspect of this competition was the challenging panel interview, where we were not permitted to refer to our PowerPoint presentation. Consequently, we had to thoroughly memorize our ideas. This experience not only tested our presentation skills but also assessed our true comprehension of the proposed concepts. I am genuinely delighted that the judges recognized the initiatives and pain points put forth by our team, validating the hard work we invested.
Undoubtedly, this journey was both demanding and rewarding, and I would not have achieved this milestone without the unwavering support of my teammates and mentors.”
(by Miss Cheung Lok Ching)
“This competition brought me to research and explore more on the ESG, Green Finance, and Sustainability industries, which were topics that I had never touched upon. As a Year 1 student, I was intimidated by the technicality of the field provided, but curiosity propelled me to go in depth. I learnt about different initiatives that Hong Kong has been trying to develop as a sustainable finance hub, and it excites me to know that there are so many people and organisations work for the betterment of the society through building new frameworks and technologies.
Aside from research, this competition was also a great platform to hone my presentation skills. Not only was it about public speaking, but designing how to formulate the deck and speech was another challenge I started training myself on. Although I am no expert in presentation, it was a good kickstart to start equipping myself with the right skills.
It was a wonderful and rewarding journey, and I am immensely grateful for having amazing teammates with me along the way.”
(by Miss Lo Nikkia)
“Participating in the HKSI case competition with Joey and Nikkia was a rewarding experience. We faced challenges and learned from them. Our team prioritized communication and collaboration, supporting each other throughout the process. The competition involved intense research, analysis, and decision-making. We had to think critically, adapt, and remain focused on our goals. Working with Joey and Nikkia taught me the importance of teamwork and leveraging diverse strengths. The competition exposed me to the business world and the value of thorough research. We delved into market trends, financial analysis, and industry dynamics. It has expanded my knowledge and analytical skills. The competition pushed me out of my comfort zone, helping me develop presentation and public speaking skills. Feedback from judges encouraged improvement. Overall, the HKSI case competition transformed me. It taught me teamwork, adaptability, and research skills. I am proud of our team’s accomplishments and grateful for the lessons learned.”
We are pleased to announce the successful conclusion of the HKU-Airstar Bank Joint University Case Competition (JUCC) 2024. Our HKU Teams have demonstrated exceptional analytical and presentation skills, securing the Championship and 2nd Runner-up position in the competition.
JUCC is the annual signature event of HKU International Case Society (HICS), a student-run organisation supported by the School. It serves as a platform for students to showcase their case cracking, analytical and presentation skills. 16 teams of elite students from The University of Hong Kong, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, City University of Hong Kong, and The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology participated in the 48-hour business case challenge and presented their solutions to the panel of judges.
This year, HKU Business School collaborated with Airstar Bank to present a real-world business case with the theme “Crafting a Profitable Future”. As a prelude to the competition, Mr. Eddie Rong, Head of Innovation and Payment at Airstar Bank, delivered a talk to participating students on April 1, 2024, sharing his insights and experiences in virtual banking and FinTech industry. The students greatly benefited from the workshop and gained in-depth understanding of the industry before case cracking.
The Division Round and Grand Final Round took place on April 14, 2024. In the morning, student teams were divided into four divisions and presented their ideas to a panel of judges consisting of executives from Airstar Bank and accomplished alumni representatives from participating universities. The top-scoring team from each division advanced to the Grand Final in the afternoon, competing for the Championship. The judging panel for the Grand Final included:
Ting Jiang, Chief Financial Officer, Airstar Bank Limited
Albert Koo, Chief Risk Officer, Airstar Bank Limited
Christina Wong, Managing Director, Accenture Strategy & Consulting, Greater China
Teddy Liu, Member of Council, Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants
Vincent Tam, Chief Advisor, Relearn Education Limited
After careful deliberation, the Grand Final judges identified the Champion, 1st Runner-up, 2nd Runner-up, Merit Team and the Best Presenter. They are:
Champion: NAWN Consulting (from The University of Hong Kong)
1st Runner-up: Mars Advisory (from The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology)
2nd Runner-up: Vinco Consulting (from The University of Hong Kong)
Merit Team: Delta Consulting (from The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology)
Best Presenter: Mr. Adrian Lau from Delta Consulting (from The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology)
Miss Nori Law, Team Leader of the Champion Team and year 1 BEcon&Fin programme student from HKU, shared her experience in the competition, stating “I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the HKU International Case Society and Airstar Bank for granting us the invaluable opportunity to delve into the realm of Hong Kong’s virtual bank and FinTech industry, enabling us to gain profound insights. I learned the importance of identifying the root cause of the problem and catering our strategies towards a target demographic to provide a more detailed and feasible solution.”
Additionally, Miss Joey Cheung, a member of the 2nd Runner-up Team and year 1 BBA(IBGM) programme student from HKU, added, “The journey itself taught me invaluable lessons about teamwork, time management, problem-solving, and effective communication. These skills will undoubtedly serve me well in future endeavours, making the JUCC experience truly rewarding and memorable.”
We would like to extend our congratulations to all participants and the winning teams of JUCC for your dedication, hard work, and impressive performances. Four students from the Champion team and the Best Presenter will be offered internship opportunities at Airstar Bank from June to August 2024.
The Grand Final Judging Panel, Ms. Christina Wong from Accenture (2nd from the left), Mr. Albert Koo from Airstar Bank (3rd from the left), Ms. Ting Jiang from Airstar Bank (middle), Mr. Teddy Liu from Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants (3rd from the right), Mr. Vincent Tam from Relearn Education Limited (2nd from the right), with Prof. Winnie Leung from HKU Business School (1st from the left) and Mr. Chris Park from HKU International Case Society (1st from the right).
Case Presentation by one of the finalist teams.
Prof. Winnie Leung (1st from the left), Ms. Ting Jiang (2nd from the left) and Mr. Albert Koo (1st from the right) with the Champion Team – NAWN Consulting.
Mr. Teddy Liu (1st from the left), Ms. Christina Wong (2nd from the left) and Mr. Vincent Tam (1st from the right) with the 1st Runner-up Team – Mars Advisory.
Mr. Teddy Liu (1st from the left), Ms. Christina Wong (2nd from the left), Mr. Vincent Tam (1st from the right) with the 2nd Runner-up Team – Vinco Consulting.
Prof. Winnie Leung (1st from the left), Ms. Ting Jiang (2nd from the left) and Mr. Albert Koo (1st from the right) with Mr. Adrian Lau (2nd from the right), The Best Presenter of JUCC 2024.
Everyone gave a “thumbs-up” after the competition.
Thank you for the support from the three supporting organisations, including Case Analysis Team from HKUST Business School, Case Competition Team from CUHK Business School and Business Proposal and Competition Club from CityU College of Business.
Student Sharing from HKU Teams:
Champion Team – NAWN Consulting
“I am thrilled to share that my team, NAWN Consulting, emerged as the Champion of the HKU-Airstar Bank Joint University Case Competition (JUCC) 2024. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the HKU International Case Society (HICS), HKU Business School and Airstar Bank for granting us the invaluable opportunity to delve into the realm of Hong Kong’s virtual bank and fintech industry, enabling us to gain profound insights. I learned the importance of identifying the root cause of the problem and catering our strategies towards a target demographic to provide a more detailed and feasible solution.
As the team leader, I would like to thank my teammates, Nikkia Lo, Anson Ng, and Wee Duangthip for their hard work in cracking this 48-hour case. It has been a memorable and precious learning journey for all of us.”
(by Miss Law Lok Yee Nori)
“I am honoured to have represented HKU Business School in JUCC 2024. It was a challenging yet rewarding experience that allowed me to sharpen my analytical skills and develop my teamwork abilities. I am grateful for my teammates’ diverse talents, which complemented each other and empowered us to crack the case within the 48-hour time limit.
Reflecting on the journey, I am grateful for the training provided by HICS, which transformed us from novices to confident competitors. Participating in a case competition with a time constraint was challenging but memorable. Representing HKU in JUCC 2024 was a privilege, and I look forward to joining more case competitions in the future. Our team also had previous experience working together, which made the case-cracking process more efficient. Despite the challenges posed by the extensive information and the technological nature of the Airstar Bank case, our hard work paid off.
Analysing Airstar Bank’s business model enriched my knowledge of the FinTech industry. The competition provided valuable insights and the judges’ feedback guided us to develop more robust strategies. Winning the first place was a recognition of our hard work and an encouragement for me to challenge myself further. I am grateful for my teammates’ dedication and efforts. I would also like to thank HICS, especially Mr. Chris Park, for their support throughout the journey.”
(by Mr. Duangthip Wee)
“To me, JUCC was not just a simple 48-hour competition, but a whole journey I experienced with my team starting from the first day of HICS. Throughout our time doing internal practices in HICS, my team and I had always aspired to compete at JUCC, making this victory a dream realised after countless hours of hard work and dedication. My teammates, more than just colleagues, have become lifelong friends whose camaraderie was indispensable on this challenging journey.
Beyond the trophies and accolades, the most rewarding aspect of this experience was the invaluable lesson in the power of team spirit. Experiencing its significance firsthand has been transformational and is something I will treasure forever. I am immensely grateful to HICS for their guidance and support in honing our skills for case competitions. Their pivotal role was instrumental in moulding us into a cohesive and determined team.
Reflecting on this journey, I am proud to see how much we have grown when we first embarked on our case competition journey at HICS. It was a profound honour to represent the support provided by HICS and to demonstrate our collective growth at JUCC.”
(by Miss Lo Nikkia)
2nd Runner-up – Vinco Consulting
“The HKU-Airstar Bank Joint University Case Competition (JUCC) 2024 was a meaningful and challenging experience that truly allowed me to develop my collaboration and critical-thinking skills. By staying with my teammates for 48 hours and formulating recommendations to help the virtual bank, Airstar Bank, we all learned a lot about the financial landscape of Hong Kong. Overall, I am enthralled to have been able to lead a team to represent HKU and place third overall.”
(by Mr. Sy Mateo Rafael Roman)
“Joining the JUCC 2024 was a significant milestone in my first-year journey, leaving a lasting impression of dedication and personal growth. Initially, JUCC appeared daunting, but as a member of HICS, the aspiration to participate became a driving force during our internal practice sessions. Yet, the true reward from this experience goes beyond any trophy or certificate; it lies in the extensive development of my soft skills.
Although we achieved 2nd Runner-up, I have no regrets. Witnessing the wholehearted commitment of my teammates during the intense 48-hour competition was a highlight. Together, we invested our best efforts, meticulously crafting recommendations, refining details, and ultimately creating a compelling presentation deck. The journey itself taught me invaluable lessons about teamwork, time management, problem-solving, and effective communication. These skills will undoubtedly serve me well in future endeavours, making the JUCC experience truly rewarding and memorable.
Once again, I am grateful to HKU Business School, HICS and the Airstar Bank for organizing this remarkable competition and providing a platform for growth. I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to everyone who offered guidance and support throughout this journey. Your mentorship, feedback, and encouragement have been instrumental in shaping my skills and fostering personal development.”
(by Miss Cheung Lok Ching, Joey)
“Participating in the JUCC has been a transformative experience, fostering the development of my personal, communication, team building, and business analysis skills. Through the competition, I was able to challenge myself in a high-pressure environment and explore my capabilities in a real-world business setting. The intense nature of the competition pushed me to think critically and analytically, honing my business analysis skills as my team formulated innovative solutions. Collaborating closely with my team members allowed me to enhance my interpersonal skills, as we navigated differing perspectives, delegated tasks, and worked towards a common goal. Overall, the JUCC experience played a pivotal role in my personal growth, equipping me with the essential skills and experiences necessary to thrive in the business world. I would like to express my gratitude to Airstar Bank and The HKU Business School for hosting such a fruitful competition.”
(by Mr. Jung Seungwon, Matt)
“Participating in JUCC was an intense and rewarding experience. Within a mere 48 hours, our team collaborated closely, analysing complex business problems, refining our analytical skills, and crafting a compelling presentation. The pressure pushed us to think critically, adapt, and communicate effectively. Beyond competition, we gained lasting friendships, expanded our network, and learned valuable lessons in teamwork, resilience, and gratitude.”
We are delighted to share the news that HKU Business School and Pasona Group Inc. have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on 28 Mar 2024. This collaboration between the two institutions aims to promote global business education and empower professionals to excel in the international community.
Pasona Group Inc., a leading Japanese company specializing in employment and staffing solutions, will work together with HKU Business School to promote and support the growth of business education and international business activities between Hong Kong and Japan. This partnership will cultivate an environment that nurtures business professionals with a global perspective.
Through this MOU, HKU Business School and Pasona Group will collaborate on the following initiatives:
International business teaching and learning programs
The HKGCC Business Case Competition is an annual competition hosted by Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce (HKGCC). The competition aims to foster the sharing of ideas between tertiary students and businesses and to motivate students to apply the skills and knowledge learned in class to develop solutions for real-life business challenges.
This year’s competition was sponsored by the Chevalier Group, the Chinachem Group, Jardine Matheson, and the Swire Pacific. Students were provided with an opportunity to develop innovative ideas and crack one or more business cases from the four sponsors with topics ranged from smart city and community engagement to health-consciousness and sustainability.
After clearing the initial round, students received feedback and guidance from their respective sponsors to refine their proposals in the mentorship phase. Each sponsor then selected three best teams to advance to the final. The 12 finalist teams proceeded to the Final Pitching were required to give a 10-minute presentation followed by a 5-minute Q&A with the panel of judges.
Students from the HKU Business School have achieved remarkable success and won numerous awards in the competition, including three Champions and two 1st Runner-ups with the four sponsoring companies.
Champion (Swire Pacific track) and 1st Runner-up (Chinachem Group track)
Team name: Pawn Consulting
Team members:
Miss Chin Hoi Lam Michelle, BBA(IBGM), Year 2
Miss Chzhan Lina, BBA(IBGM), Year 2
Miss Leung Victoria Sze Pui, BBA(IBGM), Year 2
Miss Yao Chuanjie, BBA(BA), Year 2
Champion (Chevalier track)
Team name: ChroCare
Team members:
Mr. Bi Hu, BBA(IBGM), Year 3
Miss Kim Sihyun, BBA(IBGM), Year 5
Miss Pyun Joo Ah, BBA(IBGM), Year 3
Miss Yu Yue, BBA(IBGM), Year 3
Miss Angeles Megan, BSc, Year 3
Champion (Chinachem Group track)
Team name: MICG Consulting
Team members:
Miss Au Cheuk Yee, BEcon&Fin, Year 1
Miss Ching Nga Sze, BBA(Law)&LLB, Year 1
Mr. Lee Chi Hiu, BBA, Year 1
(The team comprises 1 other team member from other universities)
1st Runner-up (Chevalier track)
Team name: DY Consulting
Team members:
Mr. Cheung Kam Man, BBA(BA), Year 2
Miss Wong Tsz Ching, BBA(Acc&Fin), Year 2
Mr. Yang Ka Lam, BSc(QFin), Year 3
Miss Wun Ally Lok Yin, GEBP, Year 2
Student Sharing:
Champion (Swire Pacific track) and 1st Runner-up (Chinachem Group track)
“One of the highlights of the competition was being able to participate in all 4 business tracks. It provided us with valuable insights into the ESG practices of these prestigious groups and their shared commitment to creating a sustainable future for Hong Kong. This experience underscored the integral role of ESG integration in business operations for long-term resilience in a rapidly changing environment, as well as the importance of giving back to the community.”
(by Miss Chin Hoi Lam Michelle)
“Our perception of the business world underwent a transformation as a result of this competition. Previously, we believed that standing out with a unique value proposition and making a genuine, tangible impact should be enough to differentiate oneself in the business landscape. However, we quickly realized that even influential companies like the sponsors, which are actively contributing to society, sometimes require assistance in raising public awareness about their efforts. Effective communication strategies can be the missing link in achieving differentiation. Furthermore, we honed our teamwork and soft skills, learned to manage our time effectively, communicated efficiently as a team, and leveraged each other’s strengths.”
(by Miss Chzhan Lina)
“Participating in the HKGCC Case Competition was an incredible experience that has left an indelible mark on my personal and professional growth. During this competition journey, our team focused on highlighting scalable and innovative solutions, organizing exhibits, and incorporating interactive activities for the corporate to engage and educate customers and participants. Through our innovative initiatives for Swire Pacific and Chinachem Group, we aimed to make a positive impact on society and the environment. I deeply appreciate my teammates’ collective effort, collaboration, and synergy which were the driving forces behind our success. I extend my deepest gratitude to our supervisor, whose guidance and support were invaluable throughout the competition. This experience has left me inspired and even more determined to contribute to the business world and create meaningful change.”
(by Miss Yao Chuanjie, Rosie)
Champion (Chevalier track)
“Winning the championship in the Chevalier Group track of the HKGCC Business Case Competition 2023/24 was an exhilarating experience that provided me with a unique blend of real-world business insights and opportunities. Collaborating closely with our team and mentors, I gained a deeper understanding of how businesses can play a transformative role in society. This competition was not just about showcasing our abilities in the areas of problem solving, research and analysis, it was also about applying them towards making tangible improvements in the city, driving innovation, and fostering sustainable growth. The lessons learned and the connections made have been invaluable, truly enhancing my perspective on the potential impact of thoughtful business practices.”
(by Mr. Bi Hu, Tiger)
“Our proposal, as it aims to provide service to the chronically ill and the elderly population, a part of the proposal comes from our personal experiences with the toughness of having chronic illness, whether it be yourself or a beloved member of the family. As ‘doing something new’ as a large business should always be a deep consideration about what value it can bring to people before any market potential analysis, we came up with the proposal with a real consideration of what value it could bring to the target population. Also, a part of it has been fuelled by the anecdotes that we have collected on the hardships in the lives of the chronically ill population.
During the solution-devising part of the competition, we have learnt that while a lot of new business proposals can come from a good heart or an altruistic point of view, some of these ‘for-good activities’ tend to have larger overhead than the value they can ultimately bring. Therefore, the role of management consulting should be to devise a solution which accounts for this pitfall in the failure of effective altruism. By doing so, we were able to further understand why it is important to possess skills and fundamental knowledge of financial forecasting and general business operations to come up with feasible and realistic, yet meaningful solutions for businesses.”
(by Miss Kim Sihyun, Blair)
“Throughout this competition, I was encouraged to think strategically and generate innovative ideas. I had the opportunity to explore how Chevalier could effectively utilize its inherent advantages and expertise to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the initiatives outlined in the Smart City Blueprint. This experience significantly improved my critical thinking skills and my ability to propose creative solutions. Working on the proposal alongside my teammates, we faced various challenges that required problem-solving and collaboration. These experiences highlighted the importance of effective teamwork and communication when addressing complex issues. I learned how to actively engage with my team members, leverage their diverse perspectives, and collectively find solutions. Overall, participating in this competition provided me with a comprehensive learning experience. It equipped me with valuable skills in strategic thinking, innovation, problem-solving, and collaborative teamwork. I am confident that these skills will greatly benefit me in future endeavours, enabling me to approach problem-solving situations with confidence and work collaboratively with others to find effective solutions.”
(by Miss Pyun Joo Ah)
“The experience of participating in the HKGCC competition has been truly enriching for me. Not only have I acquired valuable professional knowledge from the esteemed judges and my fellow teammates, but also the atmosphere of collaboration and unwavering support within our group has left an indelible impression on me. The memories we created while working on the case competition and presenting as a unified team at HKGCC will forever hold a special place in my heart.”
(by Miss Yu Yue, Mary)
Champion (Chinachem Group track)
“Participating in the HKGCC competition was an enriching experience for me. I learned how to analyse complex business problems and propose effective solutions within a limited timeframe. I also improved my teamwork, communication, and presentation skills as we worked together to develop our ideas and presented them to the judges. It was a great opportunity to network with professionals and they gave valuable feedback on our performance. Overall, the case composition challenged me to think outside the box and developed innovative solutions to real-world business challenges.”
(by Miss Au Cheuk Yee)
“The reason why I joined this competition was that it collaborated with four well-known corporations, so this would be a precious chance for me to get more insights about the real business industry outside the classroom. The competition would undoubtedly enhance my soft skills, such as creativity, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills, as well as prepare me for stepping into the business world in the near future.
During the deck-making process, I learned how to effectively transform our innovative ideas into practical solutions by adding necessary details. The mentoring phase enabled me to learn how the industry professionals thought about our ideas, so that we could polish them to make them more feasible and cost-effective. Through the Q&A session in the final, I gained valuable insights into the key areas that deserved attention within the business society. In conclusion, I am grateful for this experience as it has greatly enriched my knowledge in solving real-life business challenges.”
(by Miss Ching Nga Sze, Gloria)
“In this competition, I’m able to combine what I have learned and the real business world together. It’s a very prime chance for me to gain this experience and I definitely learn a lot. Our group faced different challenges but after times of discussion, we were able to find a solution for it. I understood that it’s important to be a team player, and proactively explore solutions for different kinds of business problems or the actual focuses of them.”
(by Mr. Lee Chi Hiu)
1st Runner–up (Chevalier track)
“Upon joining the HKGCC Case Competition, we were granted a remarkable opportunity to explore and immerse ourselves in the vast array of business prospects that arise from the visionary Hong Kong Smart City Plan. This forward-thinking plan aspires to transform Hong Kong into a next-generation urban city, dedicated to providing its citizens with an enhanced and enriched living experience.
Participating in this competition has proven to be an invaluable experience, as it has equipped us with the knowledge and skills necessary to design products that can make a positive and lasting impact on society. Through this journey, we have gained insights into the intricate interplay between innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility, thereby enabling us to develop solutions that align with the broader goals of the Hong Kong Smart City Plan.
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my teammates for their unwavering support throughout this transformative experience. Their collaborative spirit, dedication, and unwavering belief in our shared vision have been instrumental in propelling us to the point we have reached today. It is through their collective efforts and steadfast support that we have been able to overcome challenges and surpass expectations.
Furthermore, I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the HKGCC and Chevalier for organizing and supporting us along our journey. Their commitment to fostering innovation has been instrumental in providing us with this exceptional platform to showcase our ideas.”
(by Mr. Cheung Kam Man, Stephen)
“Participating in the HKGCC Business Case Competition 2023/24 was an enlightening experience that provided us invaluable insights into the real business landscape. From the initial brainstorming sessions to the intense mentoring phase, and finally the challenging final pitch, I gained a deep understanding of the intricacies of business operations and the ability to integrate innovative solutions with strategic thinking. Moreover, the competition journey honed my attention to detail and time management skills. These competencies, together, were sharpened through practical experience and the pressure of tight deadlines.
Last but not least, I am deeply grateful to my teammates, in which our collaboration strengthened tremendously as we overcame challenges together. Our ability to leverage each other’s strengths and work cohesively was instrumental to our success. I believe this achievement is not only a milestone in our academic journey but also a significant personal accomplishment that will undoubtedly shape our future endeavours in the professional world.”
(by Miss Wong Tsz Ching, Angela)
“The competition was a catalyst for critical thinking and the development of innovative solutions to complex business problems. Initially, we generated a wide range of potential solutions, aiming to create an all-in-one solution. However, upon conducting a more in-depth analysis of the case, we recognized the need to make trade-offs and remove certain features from our solution. This process of analyzing the case, identifying key issues, and formulating practical recommendations significantly enhanced my problem-solving abilities. It taught me the importance of considering different perspectives and making informed decisions to achieve the most effective and feasible solution. Moreover, presenting our solutions to the judges and effectively communicating our ideas was a significant aspect of the competition. Initially, it was challenging to explain the working principles and advantages of our creative and innovative solution. This experience helped me improve my presentation skills, including structuring the content, delivering a persuasive pitch, and responding to questions confidently.
Furthermore, participating in the competition allowed me to network with professionals, judges, and fellow participants from the business community. During the HKGCC Case Competition, we had the opportunity to interact with competitors from different schools and majors. Additionally, we had the privilege of engaging with industry veterans from the sponsor company. This experience provided us with valuable perspectives from diverse backgrounds and allowed us to learn from the expertise and experiences of seasoned professionals in the field.”
We are delighted to announce the successful conclusion of the HKU-Accenture Business Consulting Programme (BCP) 2023-24, held on February 24, 2024. This year marked the sixth edition of the programme, which aims to equip students with industry knowledge, exposure, and essential skills for the business consulting field, allowing them to apply their university education in practical scenarios.
After a rigorous selection process from a pool of hundreds of applicants, 30 students from HKU Business School were selected and divided into six teams of five to participate in 4 master class lectures curated by Accenture Managing Directors, covering a range of topics such as Introduction to Consulting, Design Thinking, Storyboarding & Executive Presentation, and Next Gen Technology. Accenture Managers also provided coaching sessions to help students reinforce their learning. The programme focused on developing core consulting skills and culminated in a case competition, where students could apply their newly acquired knowledge in a simulated business environment and compete for the Championship and Best Presenter Award.
Mr. Elvis Kwong, Team Leader of the Champion Team, a year-4 BBA(Acc&Fin) programme student, expressed his appreciation for the programme, stating, “throughout the programme, I learnt to solve real-life problems by adopting design thinking and identified underlying business problems by using MECE framework. Additionally, I honed my ability to construct compelling storylines that effectively communicate with the audience. Our team also had the chance to network with the professionals and received constructive feedback after the final pitch. I highly recommend those who want to enter the consulting industry to join this programme.”
The Best Presenter, Ms. Angela Leung, who is a year-3 BBA programme student, added that “it has been an incredible experience for me. The programme has not only equipped me with valuable skills like design thinking and storytelling but also provided me with the opportunity to receive mentorship from my incredible mentor. Her guidance and expertise have inspired me greatly in generating innovative business strategies. Moreover, I feel extremely fortunate to have collaborated with my teammates. The synergy and camaraderie within our team have been instrumental in our success. I am grateful for this opportunity to learn, grow, and build lasting connections through the HKU-Accenture BCP.”
The key to success for this programme is HKU’s long-standing partnership with Accenture, who brings in not only industry-proven consulting expertise but also dedicated consulting professionals who commit to the University’s and Business School’s shared goal of nurturing future business talents. The University looks forward to a continuous collaboration with Accenture in the years to come. Congratulations to all the participants of the HKU-Accenture Business Consulting Programme 2023-24!
Champion Team – Agile Mind:
Mr. Elvis Kwong (Team Leader – 1st from the right)
Ms. Such Kaur (1st from the left)
Mr. Samhith Vaidya (2nd from the left)
Mr. Bob Li (3rd from the left)
Ms. Stephanie Leung (2nd from the right)
Case Presentation by The Champion Team
Ms Christina Wong, Accenture Managing Director (2nd from the left) and Mr. Jeff Chiu, Accenture Coach (3rd from the left) with the Champion Team
Mr. Luca Fong, Accenture Managing Director (left), Mr. Milton Fung, Accenture Strategy Senior Manager (right), with Ms. Angela Leung (middle), The Best Presenter of the Case Competition
The Case Competition Judging Panel, Prof. Olivia Leung (1st from the right) and Prof. Winnie Leung (2nd from the right) from HKU Business School, and Ms. Christina Wong (3rd from the right), Mr. Luca Fong (2nd from the left) and Mr. Milton Fung (1st from the left) from Accenture, with the Champion Team and Best Presenter.
Everyone gave a “thumbs-up” during the Lunch Celebration
The Debriefing Session with Accenture judges and coaches after the Closing Ceremony
Two current Undergraduate Students, Mr. Christopher Lee [Year 4 – BBA(IS)], and Mr. Leslie Li [(Year 4 BFin(AMPB)] have been nominated by the Faculty as student representatives for attending the Cultivating Authentic Leadership Beta Gamma Sigma Conference in Washington, D.C. from 8-10 February 2024.
The 2024 Cultivating Authentic Leadership Conference boasts a comprehensive program comprising keynote sessions, workshops, panel discussions, and other engaging activities carefully curated to facilitate an in-depth exploration of the realm of Authentic Leadership for all student representatives. Additionally, the conference provides invaluable networking opportunities, enabling BGS members to connect with accomplished leaders and fellow members from across the globe. Below are the appreciation testimonials from Christopher and Leslie, highlighting the valuable insights and takeaways they gained from their participation in this transformative conference.
“Networking is the biggest takeaway of the conference. Christopher said, “Interacting with students from different universities provided a unique perspective on global leadership challenges. There were even students coming from Australia and Nigeria. These connections extend beyond mere acquaintanceship, holding the promise of future collaborations and partnerships within the Beta Gamma Sigma community.”
Mr. Christopher Lee | BBA(IS) Year 4, Academic Year 2023-24
“The panel discussions provided real-world examples of how fellow members from various fields leveraged their Beta Gamma Sigma membership to drive authentic leadership in their career paths. From social entrepreneurship to crisis leadership, the panellists shared practical insights and actionable takeaways, inspiring me to harness the resources and opportunities Beta Gamma Sigma offers in my professional journey.”
Mr. Leslie Li | BFin(AMPB) Year 4 , Academic Year 2023-24
Beta Gamma Sigma is The International Business Honor Society recognising and honouring top performing students from around the world in business schools accredited by The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International). The Beta Gamma Sigma HKU Chapter was established in 2012.
Members of Beta Gamma Sigma are the top 10% of undergraduate students, top 20% of graduate students and all doctoral candidates that have successfully defended their dissertation at an AACSB accredited business school. Besides giving recognitions to outstanding students, Beta Gamma Sigma also awards business verterans with exceptional leadership as Chapter Honorees in the annual Induction Ceremony.
Since its founding in 1913, Beta Gamma Sigma has inducted more than 900,000 outstanding students into membership worldwide. With more than 600 collegiate chapters and lifetime members from over 190 countries, Beta Gamma Sigma is truly a global network.
