The business world is no longer just talking about Artificial Intelligence—it is actively transforming because of it.
On May 15, the CityUHK Faculty Lounge was buzzing with energy as we hosted the high-impact executive forum, "AI Across Industries: Strategy, Adoption, and Leadership for Efficiency Growth." Co-hosted alongside iab HK, the exclusive event brought together over 50 dynamic professionals, including current MBA/EMBA students, distinguished alumni, academic professors, and prominent industry leaders.
Here are the key highlights from an afternoon dedicated to bridging academic excellence with real-world industry leadership.
1. Cross-Industry AI Insights From Global Giants
AI adoption looks different in every sector. Our esteemed panel of global experts delivered practical, high-level insights tailored to their specific fields of expertise, offering a 360-degree view of the current corporate landscape:
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Banking & Finance: Richard Chow (Executive Director at UBS) shed light on navigating strict regulatory frameworks while leveraging AI for smarter risk management and efficiency.
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Consulting & Strategy: Alan Chan (Partner at PwC) shared proven methodologies for scaling AI experimentation into robust, company-wide business strategies.
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Luxury Retail: Howell Wong (Regional Digital & Omnichannel Director at Christian Dior Couture) captivated the audience with how luxury brands maintain human-centric artistry while utilizing AI to personalize the modern customer journey.
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Marketing & Digital Ecosystems: Representing iab HK, the discussion delved into how data-driven AI applications are completely revolutionizing consumer engagement and media efficiency.
2. Panel Discussion: Leadership in Flux
Led by CityUHK’s Professor Stephanie Gao, the panel discussion, "Leadership in Flux," sparked an insightful conversation on how AI is fundamentally reshaping modern business structures.
The consensus was clear: AI transformation is less about the technology itself and more about the leadership behind it. Speakers candidly discussed managing organizational shifts, upskilling teams, and the adaptive leadership mindsets required to guide workforce culture through technological disruption.
3. A Highly Interactive Q&A Session
One of the most rewarding segments of the forum was the vibrant Q&A session. The room came alive with meaningful dialogue as our ambitious MBA/EMBA alumni and industry leaders challenged the panel with sharp, forward-looking questions. From the ethical implications of AI deployment to the specific skills next-generation executives need to thrive, the exchange of ideas perfectly bridged cutting-edge academic theory with boots-on-the-ground business reality.
4. Unwinding & Connecting: The Networking Reception
The insights from the stage seamlessly carried over into the networking reception. Against the elegant backdrop of the Faculty Lounge, attendees connected over complimentary drinks, traded business cards, and sparkled conversations that lasted long into the evening. It was a powerful reminder of the strength of the CityUHK community—where seasoned executives, fresh talent, and academic pioneers naturally collide to form lasting professional bonds.
A Sincere Thank You
An executive forum of this caliber would not be possible without the incredible minds who shared their time and expertise.
We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to all of our speakers from UBS, PwC, Christian Dior Couture, iab HK, and CityUHK. Thank you for making this forum a resounding success and for adding immense, tangible value to our MBA/EMBA programmes and alumni network.
To everyone who attended, thank you for your energy and insights. The future of AI leadership is bright, and it is being shaped right here at CityUHK.
Interested in joining a network of visionary leaders? Discover how the CityUHK MBA and EMBA programmes can elevate your executive journey.
