Born and raised in Hong Kong, Professor Mike Leung began his career at IBM, where he worked as an engineer and consultant before advancing into project management. He later relocated to Canada and spent over a decade in the United States as Director of Software R&D at a healthcare consulting firm. In 2001, he returned to Hong Kong and assumed the role of Managing Director at AGENDA, where he transformed the company into one of Asia's largest independent digital marketing and e-business consulting agencies. Following its acquisition by WPP in 2008, Mike remained in the role for over 17 years before co-founding his own agency with two partners in 2018.

Professor Leung holds a Ph.D. in Management Sciences from the University of Waterloo, Canada, and has studied Psychology at the University of Hong Kong and Anthropology at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. He has also completed executive training programmes at the University of Toronto and the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, as well as workshops at Stanford University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Additionally, he was invited to visit the headquarters of Google and Facebook to gain insights into their project management and innovation cultures.

Professor Leung is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP), Agile PM, Scrum Master, and Certified Management Consultant (CMC). He is also certified in Design Thinking by IDEO and in the LEGO Serious Play Method.

What do you enjoy most about teaching CityUHK MBA students?

As an Adjunct Professor with industry connections and real-world experience, I value the dynamic exchange of ideas with diverse, experienced MBA students. I find it rewarding to bridge theory and practice, helping students tackle complex problems and develop leadership skills. Seeing them grow in confidence, refine their decision-making, and prepare to make a meaningful impact in their careers is both a privilege and a source of fulfillment.

How do you combine theoretical concepts with the latest industry practices and business trends?

I combine theoretical concepts with industry practices by leveraging my professional experience, staying current with business trends, and incorporating real-world case studies into my teaching. I invite guest speakers, implement experiential learning, and encourage students to engage with contemporary challenges. At times, I adapt assignments mid-course to reflect emerging issues, asking students to address them in their project plans. This approach helps students develop the adaptability and problem-solving skills essential for navigating today’s ever-changing business landscape. My goal is to equip students to think critically, apply knowledge effectively, and thrive in dynamic settings.

What books would you recommend CityUHK MBA students to read? Why?

I recommend The Lean Startup by Eric Ries for its practical approach to innovation and adaptability. Don’t wait for the perfect time—it doesn’t exist. Act now!

Another great read is Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman, which delves into the intricacies of decision-making by uncovering biases and exploring the complexities of human judgment.

The Starfish and the Spider by Ori Brafman and Rod Beckstrom illustrates the transformative power of decentralised organisations, showing how adaptability, collaboration, and shared leadership can create unstoppable movements and lasting impact.

Last but not least is Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck. It reveals how embracing a growth mindset—believing in the power of effort and learning—can unlock potential, turn challenges into opportunities, and foster personal and professional success.

What business topics should CityUHK MBA students be the most familiar with when they graduate from our programme?

Our MBA programme goes beyond theory—it mirrors the fast-paced, interconnected challenges students will face as leaders. To thrive, tomorrow’s leaders must master not only foundational theory but also the pulse of today’s evolving business landscape. Our focus for 2025 and beyond: Generative AI, Sustainable Business and Circular Economies, Intelligent Enterprise, and Resilience in the Age of Uncertainty.

One career advice to our CityUHK MBA students.

Invest in lifelong learning, cultivate a network that challenges your thinking, and align your skills with industries and trends primed for growth.