I was comparing different programs in various countries. At the time, the undergraduate accounting syllabus at UC provides a smooth entry towards the Chartered Accountant qualification.
What memories stand out to you when reflecting on your time spent at UC?
I remember the special nights when we got invited to sit at the head table during dinner at College House, which was always preceded by a glass of sherry with the principal.
I had my first exposure to rugby watching the teams playing at the field. It has become a game that I enjoy and I am now an avid All Blacks supporter.
What would you consider the biggest challenge you have faced in your career?
I have come across several financial crisis during my career. I have learnt to survive through some of them and thrived at the companies I was with. [Happy to share more later]
On the other hand, what would you consider your biggest success?
I was appointed CEO of Link Asset Management Limited in May 2010, which is the company I am still leading. Over my tenure as CEO, I have grown the Link Real Estate Investment Trust from HK$ 40 billion to over HK$100 billion, from solely focused in Hong Kong to having diversified to 11 cities in four jurisdictions. It is now the largest real estate investment trust in Asia.
I heard you first met your wife in New Zealand – can you tell us that story?
I met my wife at UC as we were both staying at University Hall. We spend a lot of time together at some of the same subjects. We also took the Easter holiday to do a road trip around the island. She left after one year and completed her undergraduate study in Australia. As a result, we had a long distance relationship for several years.
What advice would you give to a student or recent UC graduate who would like to follow a career path like yours?
Be a life long learner, take risk to make progress in your career, learn good people skills which is more important than technical competency