14/05/2026
More than a conference, it was a homecoming.
At the Ritz-Carlton, the CUHK EMBA Annual Conference 2026 proved that while success requires a new formula, our unified network remains the engine for transformation. Under the theme “Innovate to Lead – Agile Leadership in Shaping the Future of Hong Kong and Beyond”, we moved beyond traditional dialogue to define a roadmap for leadership in an era of disruption.
The conference began with a direction. 🧭
The Honourable Paul Chan Mo-po, GBM, GBS, MH, JP, Financial Secretary of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, shared an inclusive vision, suggesting that inclusivity is not charity but the smartest business strategy available. He highlighted how AI, as an amplifier of human capability, empowers individuals and workforces alike — and urged that the fruits of innovation be broadly shared across society. He closed with a memorable call to action: to "grow the pie together, and make sure we cut it well."
This was echoed by Professor Dennis Lo, SBS, JP, Vice-Chancellor and President of The Chinese University of Hong Kong, shared insights into the journey of his scientific discovery and the commercialisation of research. He illustrated that innovation originates from a specific mindset, the ability to stay alert and identify extraordinary potential within mundane.
From visions, the conversation shifted to the heart of leadership. 🫀
Mr Joe Ngai, JP, Chairman, McKinsey Greater China, built on this macro-optimism with his insights on "The Next China", highlighting that winning in this new era requires an unwavering belief in enduring opportunities.
To navigate this complexity, Dr Malina NGAI, JP, Group CEO of AS Watson Group, presented agility as a rigorous science. She shared a formula highlighting that true agility is achieved by redesigning systems to eliminate drag:
Net Agility 🟰 (Strategic Clarity ✖️ Capability) ➖ Organisational Friction
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The rest of the night was so much more than the strategic formulas.
Looking across the room at over 230 participants, we felt the sheer weight of our shared history. To have our city's leader, our university's heads, and industry titans all anchored in one room, looking toward a collective future, was incredibly profound. It was a vivid reminder that we are the architects responsible for Hong Kong’s next chapter.
Suddenly, the CUHK EMBA legacy felt more alive than ever. 🌱
In the sight of classes of alumni coming back, this community has proven that while industries change, the warmth of our network remains our greatest competitive advantage as we move forward the future.
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A heartfelt thanks to the dedicated Organising Committee, led by Macy Chan and Michael Chan (Class of 2026), for first and foremost demonstrating the agility we discussed. Here’s to a future defined by agile leadership!