Prof. Shuqing Luo and her co-author Prof. Guoli Chen won the Case Centre Awards and Competitions 2024 – Strategy and General Management category for their outstanding case “SHEIN vs Zara: Digital Transformation in the Fast-fashion Industry”. The case highlights how the Chinese apparel maker SHEIN has disrupted the fast-fashion industry, and explores how it can leverage its strengths while addressing challenges such as geopolitical risk and environmental impact.
The Asia Case Research Centre (“ACRC”) of HKU Business School is committed to the advancement of learning and teaching in business education and strives to promote leading management thinking through research on the latest practices in the Asia Pacific business environment.
As a major producer of quality business cases, ACRC boasts a repository of nearly 800 business case studies drawn from a vast range of industries and disciplinary areas, written mostly by HKU faculty members. Its cases are distributed globally through its own website as well as those of Harvard Business School Publishing, Ivey Publishing and The Case Centre.
Additionally, ACRC is the organiser of the world’s largest business case competition for undergraduates—the HSBC/HKU Asia Pacific Business Case Competition—providing some of the brightest minds of tomorrow with the skills to make valuable contributions to the global economy.
Congratulations to Prof. Shuqing Luo on this remarkable achievement!
On September 13th, 2024, The University of Hong Kong played host to the highly anticipated AMPB Alumni Homecoming Party, bringing together an exceptional group of individuals from the Asset Management and Private Banking (AMPB) programme. With over 70 guests in attendance—including industry practitioners who have served as our adjunct professors, guest mentors and guest speakers, our AMPB alumni and faculty members. The event was a vibrant celebration of professional achievements and enduring relationships.
The evening commenced with a warm and inspiring welcoming message by Prof. Anna Wong, Programme Director for Asset Management and Private Banking and Mr. Joseph H. L. Chan, JP, Under Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury of the Hong Kong SAR Government. Professor Wong highlighted AMPB’s inauguration ceremony was held in the same function room exactly 7 years ago. Both speakers reflected on the immense growth of the AMPB community over the years, highlighting the programme’s pivotal role in shaping leaders for the ever-evolving financial landscape.
A key part of the event was the alumni sharing session, where graduates from various cohorts spoke about their career journeys, successes, and challenges. Each of them were asked to use one word to express their feelings about the AMPB programme, three words from them were “unexpected”, “grateful” and “transformative”.
The energy of the evening was further amplified by mini games designed to foster interaction among the participants, adding a fun and playful element to the occasion.
The event concluded with a mingling session between the alumni and guests. The AMPB Alumni Homecoming 2024 was more than just a reunion; it was a celebration of the thriving community that continues to support one another in their personal and professional endeavors.
We look forward to seeing these connections continue to grow and strengthen, paving the way for future collaborations and successes within the AMPB community.
We are thrilled to announce that our students have won the Champion in the NHH International Case Competition 2024!
NHH International Case Competition is an annual international undergraduate case competition hosted by Norwegian School of Economics in Bergen, Norway. 15 teams from top business schools around the globe were invited to tackle real-life business issue posed by the case company – DNV.
The competition consisted of a 5-hour seeding case and 24-hour case. Our students have demonstrated exceptional presentation skills, creativity, and teamwork and bring home the Champion. Congratulations!
Mr. Duangthip Wee, BBA(IBGM), Year 2 Miss Law Lok Yee Nori, BEcon&Fin, Year 2 Miss Lo Nikkia, BSc(MAT), Year2 Mr. Ng Tsz Nam, BBA(BA), Year 2
Faculty Advisor:
Prof. Winnie Leung
Case Competition Coach: Ms. Pinto Rasika Tasdyata (Pipin)
Student Sharing:
In September, my team had the amazing opportunity to represent HKU Business School in the prestigious NHH International Case Competition in Bergen, Norway. It was an incredible journey filled with learning, collaboration, tourism, laughter, and amazing food, alongside 14 other top Business School teams around the globe.
We started off the week with a 5-hour seeding case challenge for Highsoft, where we focused on new marketing strategies to win over the Chinese market. We pitched our strategy of adding HighChart Plugin into Salesforce 360, which tapped into the growing demand for data visualization in CRM systems within the Chinese market. Winning this round in our group was such an encouraging start!
Moving on, the main event was the 24-hour case challenge for DNV, which focused on how they can drive digital transformation and increase their recurring revenue. We developed two key strategies: first, we proposed a maritime emissions pooling platform that enables trading of emissions reduction credits, helping clients adapt to new regulations. Secondly, we introduced an EMT simulation technology designed to enhance the safety and control of large power grids through advanced simulations. I’m incredibly proud that our hard work paid off, and we won this case as well!
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to Norwegian School of Economics (NHH) for organising such a fantastic event, and to thank the host, NHHS Case Club for making the whole process extremely smooth and enjoyable. Additionally, a special thanks to HKU Business School again for giving us this special opportunity to compete in this amazing event.
This competition taught me so much about collaboration and creative problem-solving. I’m truly grateful for the new insights and friendships I gained along the way.
Thanks to everyone who made this journey possible and my first trip to Europe extremely memorable!
(by Mr. Duangthip Wee)
Thank you, HKU Business School, for the opportunity to embark on this unforgettable NHH International Case Competition (NHH ICC) experience.
In Norway, I connected with students from business and economics schools worldwide, witnessed the serene beauty of the fjord cruise, and explored Bergen’s city streets whilst savouring a myriad of delicious delights, including reindeer hotdogs, pastries, fishcakes, salmon, gelato ice cream, and more!
The rigorous 24-hour case cracking tested us mentally and physically. However, it was a source of immense pride upon devising innovative and feasible digital solutions that were appreciated by our case company, DNV.
Upon winning the championship title, one of my next most memorable experiences was indulging in fine dining atop Fløyen mountain alongside the CFO and senior business development managers of DNV, where I gained further valuable insights into the energy industry.
Throughout this journey, our coach, Pipin Tasdyata, and our dedicated team, NAWN consulting, supported each other, I could not imagine my NHH ICC experience without them.
(by Miss Law Lok Yee Nori)
The week at NHH International Case Competition has been an unforgettable rollercoaster of emotions. From the excitement of exploring a new Nordic city and the exhaustion of our 24-hour case competition, to the nervous anticipation of pitching on a global stage with a livestream, every moment was extraordinary on its own. Meeting like-minded peers from Norway, the Netherlands, Canada, the Philippines and beyond was an incredible cultural exchange that forged new friendships across the globe. Thank you, HKU Business School, along with our professors, coaches and staff for bringing this opportunity to life for us!
Being able to enjoy this experience in Bergen with my team NAWN Consulting, and our beloved coach, Pipin Tasdyata, has been a dream come true, and will remain as one of the most memorable university moments. Grateful to have my team for all the hard work and joy throughout the journey!
(by Miss Lo Nikkia)
My journey at the NHH International Case Competition in Norway was nothing but remarkable. I am incredibly grateful to HKU Business School for providing such a unique opportunity, which allowed me to meet talented students from business and economics schools around the globe.
We had to accomplish an intense 24-hour case competition, which pushed us to our limits. As I was ill during the entire event, it certainly tested both my mental and physical endurance. Yet, my team, NAWN Consulting, as well as team coach, Pipin, supported me in all unwavering ways. It felt rewarding when we were ready to present our innovative digital solutions that resonated with our case company, DNV.
Winning the championship was a highlight, as we had the rare opportunity to present in front of DNV’s CFO and senior managers. Dining with them on top of the Fløyen mountain was unforgettable, as we received valuable insights as well as personal experiences in DNV, which deepened my understanding of this vital sector.
Bergen’s breathtaking beauty, with its stunning fjords and clear skies, created a perfect backdrop for our journey. I will always cherish the moments spent gazing at the Norwegian sunset, shimmering in pink and orange the evening before our case competition.
This journey was a whirlwind of emotions and experiences, from exploring a new city to the thrill of pitching on a global stage. The friendships formed during this cultural exchange will last a lifetime. Thank you to everyone who made this dream come true; it will forever remain a cherished memory in my university life.
Collaborating with Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited (Cyberport) and the AICPA & CIMA, Venture into Future Career (VFC) was initially introduced in 2020 as an exclusive programme for undergraduate students at the HKU Business School.
The primary objectives of the VFC Programme are to assist our budding talents in the following ways:
Providing students with career guidance and coaching
Facilitating career-focused discussions between students and experienced industry leaders
Equipping students with firsthand industry knowledge to help them identify career interests and strategically plan for their future careers
Over the past four VFC cohorts, we have mentored a total of 160 students from the Faculty. With the expert guidance of faculty members, guest speakers, industry stalwarts, and the practical experiences provided by startups at Cyberport, students have gained valuable insights, enhancing their readiness for the ongoing exploration of their career paths.
On October 10, 2024, the opening ceremony for the Venture into Future Career Programme 2024-25 took place at the HKU Rayson Huang Theatre, marking the commencement of its fifth cohort and celebrating this significant milestone alongside our esteemed programme partners. This new cohort comprises 45 students from 10 programmes who are eagerly anticipating the journey ahead, which includes receiving mentorship, training, and engaging with seasoned business professionals from diverse sectors.
Group picture with guests and VFC 2024-25 students
(Left to Right)
Mr. King LAI, Founder and CEO, Pubrio Limited Mr. Paulus Chau, Director, Hong Kong and Emerging Markets, AICPA&CIMA Ir. Eric Chan, Chief Public Mission Officer, Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited Prof. Derek Chan, Associate Dean (Undergraduate), HKU Business School Prof. Winnie Leung, Assistant Dean (Undergraduate), HKU Business School Mr. Charles WHITTAKER, Head of Sales and Distribution for Swire Hotels Dr Albert Lam, Chief Technology Officer and the Chief Scientist of Fano Labs
Student sharing by past participants
(Left to Right)
Ms. Bella Liu, BBA, Year 2 Mr. Carlos Or, BBA(IBGM), Year 2 Ms. Hazel Hu, BBA(Acc&Fin), Year 2
Global challenges have become increasingly acute. We have accomplished much, but more to be done. The year of 2024 marks a milestone in HKU Business School’s sustainability journey, as we proudly launch our first-ever Sustainability Report, which makes us the first business school in Hong Kong to publish a standalone sustainability report. We hope to share the progress we’ve made and envision goals we aim to achieve together in the future.
The Report communicates the School’s ongoing efforts and achievements in sustainability from July 2023 to June 2024, which have been demonstrated from the perspectives of Education, Alumni, Research, Knowledge Exchange & Partnership, and Sustainable Campus.
“The School recognises the importance of balancing short-term benefits and long-term sustainability efforts, and we are striving to contribute to a lasting impact on sustainability.”
— Professor Hongbin Cai, Dean and Chair of Economics of HKU Business School
At a Glance of the Report:
30+ ESG-related teaching courses across our UG, TPG and executive programmes
Launched the brand-new programme named Master of Climate Governance and Risk Management
Our Alumni Association has grown to 3,000 members, across Asia-Pacific, North America, the Middle East, and beyond
Nurtured alumni start-up stars to develop creative solutions addressing environmental and social issues
50+ ESG-related international top journal publications in the past 3 years
Asia No. 1 on UTD Top Business School Research Rankings based on publications in the past five years
Established the HKU Jockey Club Enterprise Sustainability Global Research Institute in June 2024
Throughout the year, our students from the Impact Lab have dedicated over 149,000 hours of work to support more than 50 social impact organisations
58.4% female students and 28.7% female faculty members
During the reporting period, HKU Business School carbon emissions totalled 3,806 tonnes CO2e for scope 1 and 2, and started to assess scope 3 emissions
We invite you to read our Full Report for more details and welcome your comments, feedback, and all your enthusiasm for sustainability!
On October 1, HKU Business School celebrated a significant milestone with the successful establishment of its first-ever school-wide overseas alumni network in Singapore. The event saw an impressive turnout, bringing together over 50 alumni from Singapore and more than 20 alumni from the HKU-Fudan IMBA program in Shanghai, fostering international ties and reinforcing the global community spirit.
In her Welcome Remarks, Alice Hui (Head of Development & Alumni) shared the school’s latest exciting achievements in growing its global alumni networks, while also promoting two of the School’s newest dynamic programmes, which are the EMBA International Stream and the Master of Climate Governance and Risk Management.
The gathering featured insightful keynote speeches from distinguished speakers, including HKU Business School’s Associate Dean of External Relations, Professor Heiwai Tang, and Professor Paul Cheung from the National University of Singapore’s Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy. Their addresses provided a captivating and enlightening analysis of the global economy’s influence on Hong Kong and Singapore.
A special congratulations to Chris Leo, who was appointed as the inaugural President of the HKUBS Singapore Alumni Network, alongside Executive Committee members, Nishant Kumar, Vibhav Varshney, Mona Lai, Rajbir Talwar, and Carole Yang. We have full trust in their stewardship to ensure the success of this new alumni network in Singapore.
This landmark event signals a new chapter for the HKU Business School alumni community, promoting closer connections and collaboration on an international scale.
Group photo of all participating company representatives
Prof. Pingyang GAO, Associate Dean (Taught Postgraduate) delivered a welcoming speech to all participating employers.
Prof. Pingyang GAO, Associate Dean (Taught Postgraduate) and Prof. Derek CHAN, Associate Dean (Undergraduate), joined the fair on behalf of the HKU Business School and presented souvenirs to show appreciation for the support from all employer representatives.
The HKU Business School Career Fair was successfully conducted on September 26, 2024, a Thursday. This exclusive event tailored for Business School Students featured participation from 69 distinguished companies, along with over 200 HR executives and industry experts. Held under the theme “Investing in HKU Business School’s Global Talent – Aspire & Connect!”, the fair was designed to offer HKUBS students unparalleled opportunities to network, engage, and aspire towards their future careers.
The event commenced with an inspiring opening address to corporate guests by Professor Pingyang Gao, the Associate Dean of Taught Postgraduate. Throughout the day, more than 1,400 current students from Undergraduate, Master, and MBA Programmes actively participated in the fair, interacting with employer representatives across various sectors such as banking and finance, consulting, FMCGs, luxury retail, and technology. The enthusiasm displayed by both students and corporate partners at this annual event was truly gratifying.
We express our deepest appreciation to each of the corporate partners who supported the Career Fair, sharing valuable industry insights with our students. Their presence and active engagement elevated the event, fostering a collaborative and growth-oriented atmosphere.
Stay tuned for upcoming events and initiatives aimed at further empowering our students and nurturing the business leaders of tomorrow!
Students seized the opportunity to interact with recruiters and industry professionals from various renowned firms.
Students seized the opportunity to interact with recruiters and industry professionals from various renowned firms.