The School of Business and Management at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST Business School) yesterday hosted a forum in Singapore, uniting experts from academia and industries to delve into the vibrant development of the family office and supply chain management (SCM) sectors in the region. This forum aims to foster collaboration and uncover new opportunities in these pivotal industries, strengthening the ties between Hong Kong and the Lion City.
With an esteemed audience consisting of industry practitioners and school alumni in Singapore, the forum served as a dynamic platform for the school to share valuable insights, foster meaningful connections, and embark on new avenues for collaboration. The event also facilitated the school's engagement with its alumni and the formation of a vibrant network of professionals.
In his opening speech to kick-start the forum, Prof. HUI Kai-Lung, Acting Dean of Business and Management of HKUST, said, "Hong Kong and Singapore epitomize Asia's rise. Collaboration opportunities abound between them. By leveraging our industry connections and the intellectual prowess of our dedicated research centers, this forum has strengthened ties with school alumni and the industry in Singapore. We are very grateful to the forum speakers and participants for their active engagement and fruitful exchange."
At the forum, a panel discussion looked into the synergy between Singapore and Hong Kong in family business and the family office sector, featuring insights from Mr. Richie EU, Managing Director of Mergers & Acquisitions, Eu Yan Sang International Limited; Prof. Roger KING, Senior Advisor and Founding Director of the Roger King Center for Asian Family Business and Family Office; Prof. Winnie PENG, Director of the Roger King Center for Asian Family Business and Family Office; and Mr. Daniel TEO, Chairman and Managing Director, Hong How Group.
During the panel discussion, Prof. King said that by leveraging our research focus in ethnic Chinese family businesses, we can help unlock synergies between the two cities - both with significant ethnic Chinese populations - to promote the growth of family businesses in the Asia-Pacific region. While stressing that managing family legacy centers on preserving the harmony, values and wealth of the family, Prof. Peng said that with their well-established ecosystems in family office management, Hong Kong and Singapore offer collaboration opportunities in various areas, including geographical asset diversification, impact investing and philanthropy.
Another panel, moderated by Prof. CHEUNG Ki-Ling, Member of Executive Committee of the HKUST Li & Fung Supply Chain Institute, explored enhancing supply chain resilience against global economic shifts. It brought together Mr. Bill FONG, Senior Director, Global Supply Management, Micron Technology Inc, Mr. Robert SINCLAIR, Former President of Supply Chain, Global Brands Group (a member of the Fung Group), and Ms. ZHANG Ting-Ting, Chief Executive Officer, Singapore Fashion Council for an enlightening discussion.
Prof. Cheung said that challenges and opportunities intertwine in the fast-changing global SCM sector. By tapping into the insights from Singapore and Hong Kong - key gateways to Southeast Asia and mainland China - the School aims to foster discussions and innovative ideas for navigating this dynamic landscape, he noted.
The school faculty members participating in the panel discussions represent the two dedicated research centers focusing on the relevant sectors. The HKUST Li & Fung Supply Chain Institute, launched in May 2024, taps into HKUST's research excellence and Li & Fung's industry expertise in SCM to drive real-world impact. On the other hand, the Roger King Center for Asian Family Business and Family Office aims to bring together academics, practitioners, and policymakers in promoting quality development in family business and family office sector in Hong Kong and beyond.
About The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) (https://hkust.edu.hk/) is a world-class university that excels in driving innovative education, research excellence, and impactful knowledge transfer. With a holistic and interdisciplinary pedagogy approach, HKUST was ranked 3rd in the Times Higher Education's Young University Rankings 2024, while 12 of its subjects were ranked among the world's top 50 in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024, with "Data Science and Artificial Intelligence" being ranked first in Hong Kong and 10th in the world. Our graduates are highly competitive, consistently ranking among the world's top 30 most sought-after employees. In terms of research and entrepreneurship, over 80% of our work was rated "Internationally excellent" or "world leading" in the latest Research Assessment Exercise 2020 of Hong Kong's University Grants Committee. As of June 2024, HKUST members have founded 1,747 active start-ups, including 10 Unicorns and 14 exits (IPO or M&A).
About the HKUST Business School
The School of Business and Management of The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST Business School) is young, innovative and committed to advancing global business knowledge. The School has forged an international reputation for world class education programs and research performance, and has received many top global rankings. For more details about the School, please visit https://bm.hkust.edu.hk
