Agility & Innovation: CUHK EMBA Annual Conference 2026 Gathers Top Leaders to Discuss Hong Kong’s Future
The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong recently served as the backdrop for the CUHK EMBA Annual Conference 2026, a landmark event that transcended the typical professional gathering. Under the theme “Innovate to Lead – Agile Leadership in Shaping the Future of Hong Kong and Beyond,” the conference brought together over 230 EMBA participants, alumni, faculty, industry titans, and government officials for a profound exploration of leadership in an era of rapid disruption.
A Vision for Inclusive Growth
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.”
The Mindset of Discovery
Building on the theme of innovation, Professor Dennis Lo, SBS, JP, Vice-Chancellor and President of The Chinese University of Hong Kong, shared the journey behind his pioneering scientific discoveries. Professor Lo emphasised that innovation is born from a specific mindset, the disciplined ability to remain alert and identify extraordinary potential within the mundane aspects of research and commercialisation.
Strategic Clarity and the Science of Agility
The dialogue shifted from macro-visions to the practical mechanics of modern leadership. Mr Joe Ngai, JP, Chairman of McKinsey Greater China, offered an optimistic outlook on “The Next China,” asserting that success in this new era requires an unwavering belief in enduring opportunities.
Dr Malina Ngai, JP, Group CEO of AS Watson Group, further deconstructed the concept of agility, presenting it as a rigorous science. She introduced a formula highlighting that true agility is achieved by redesigning systems to eliminate drag: Net Agility = (Strategic Clarity x Capability) – Organisational Friction
Celebrating the CUHK EMBA Legacy
Beyond the strategic insights, the evening served as a “homecoming” for the CUHK EMBA community. With 33 years of legacy as a foundation, the presence of city leaders, university heads, and diverse alumni classes underscored the strength of the programme’s unified network.
The event served as a vivid reminder that the warmth and collaboration within this community remain its greatest competitive advantage. As the architects of Hong Kong’s next chapter, the participants left with a renewed commitment to the agile leadership required to shape a collective future.
Acknowledgements
The success of the Annual Conference 2026 was made possible by the dedicated Organising Committee, led by Macy Chan and Michael Chan, Class of 2026, whose own agility and coordination ensured a seamless and impactful event for all attendees.
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