ALUMNI FIRESIDE CHAT
A Heart-to-Heart Dialogue
This summer, we launched a brand new initiative—MBA Alumni Virtual Fireside Chat Series—through which students can gain inspiration from alumni on their MBA journeys, career pursuits, and passions.
We owe our thanks to the three MBA alumni who took time out of their busy work schedules to engage in open dialogues with students on topics relating to their work and personal lives.
Embrace Change: Dare to be Bold
Our very first session began with
Ray Lin (FT12) as the guest speaker. Currently the Sales Director, North Asia at Medallia, a customer experience management company based in California, Ray candidly shared how he ventured outside his comfort zone to hunt for new opportunities and build a fulfilling career.
Having joined two software startups as a founding employee, Ray found it important to search for a work environment that not only allows you to grow and make an impact, but also brings joy and purpose to your work. To improve students’ success in searching for the right company, he shared useful tips from his career journey.
Ray also stressed the importance of continuous learning along the path to success and recommended a few great self-development books for students to read. “No one knows everything. So, don’t be afraid to try, ask for help, or tap into your existing networks and know-hows to find your answers,” he said.
Our second speaker was
Jacky Mak (PT05), the Managing Director, Head of OTC & FIC Business Development of Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing. Jacky has an intriguing career: formerly an engineer, he successfully reinvented himself and became a CFO without a CPA qualification.
Having worked at various global financial institutions, Jacky offered a valuable perspective on different corporate cultures. For MBA students who want to transform their careers, he suggested practical actions and offered his formula for success—always improve your strengths through continuous learning, and be diligent. “With determination, everyone can achieve career transformation regardless of your stage of life,” he said.
On the topic of time management, Jacky, as a morning person, revealed how his 4:30am daily routine helps him strike a good balance between his executive career, family, and personal interests.
Lead Effective Cross-functional Teams to Success
In our August session,
Wallace Law (PT11), Director of Commercial and Planning cum Shiseido Fragrance Division, Shiseido Hong Kong, had an open discussion with students on thought leadership, team management, and his approach to running the commercial strategy of the multi-brand beauty giant in Hong Kong.
Overseeing different corporate functions and fragrance brands, Wallace leads his cross-disciplinary team of 40 staff with his “One Team, One Goal” philosophy. Through effective communication, delegation, and mutual trust, he has constructed common ground for teams to set aside differences between their respective priorities and work toward a common goal.
The pandemic is reshaping our world. The transition from in-store to virtual purchases has become the new norm in the retail arena. Looking ahead, Wallace believes the industry will continue to leverage technology to gauge market data and use innovation to grow business and manage crises.
Renee Cheng, MBA Alumni Relations
