Malaysian Honoree and Banking Chief Reveal What Leading in the AI Era Really Takes

From visionary leadership to navigating intercultural dynamics in the digital era, BUV MBA students had the opportunity to explore the multifaceted role of today’s leadership through in-depth conversations with top executives.  

Learning from Leading Industry Leaders 

As part of the “Cross-cultural Management and Leadership” module, current MBA students and graduates at British University Vietnam (BUV) took part in the MBA Guest Talk and Networking event, titled ‘Effective Leadership: A Cross-cultural Perspective’.  

This unique opportunity allowed MBA students, who are preparing to become future leaders and CEOs, to engage directly with two distinguished industry leaders: Dato’ Dr. Teo Tong Kooi, CEO of DPS Corporate Advisory – a highly respected titleholder recognised for his outstanding contributions to business and society, and Mrs. Nguyen Thuy Hanh, General Director and Head of Corporate and Investment Banking at Standard Chartered Bank Vietnam.  

Through in-depth conversations and personal experiences, the speakers shared candid insights into the challenges and responsibilities of purpose-driven and future-ready leadership.  

Redefining the Next Generation of CEOs  

Dato’ Dr. Teo Tong Kooi, a seasoned executive with decades of experience at the helm, unpacked the essence of the CEO role, not as a glamorous position, but as a deep responsibility of stewardship. In his keynote titled ‘The Job of the Chief Executive’, Dr. Teo highlighted three core responsibilities that define successful leadership: setting a clear vision and strategy, building a high-performing senior team, and cultivating a strong, values-based culture, emphasising that true leadership is reflected not in personal accolades but in organisational impact.  

Today’s businesses are increasingly defined by disruption, from geopolitical shifts and climate change to, most notably, the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital transformation. As these technologies evolve, they are not only transforming operations but also redefining what it takes to lead, compete, and grow in the global economy.  

“AI and digital transformation are not trends of the future, but realities that we are facing now,” affirmed Dato’ Dr. Teo Tong Kooi. “The next generation of CEOs will be expected not only to embrace AI technology and digital transformation but to integrate them strategically across every facet of the business. Leadership is not about control but influence. In cross-cultural environments, humility, empathy, and respect are far more effective than command-and-control approaches. Future leaders must cultivate cultural empathy, take calculated risks, and develop resilience in times of disruption.” 

Future-Proof Leadership in Times of Disruption 

Complementing this was Mrs. Nguyen Thuy Hanh’s perspective on ‘Future-Proof Leadership’. Drawing from her own leadership journey, she emphasised the need for adaptability, emotional intelligence, and a strong understanding of diversity and sustainability in shaping effective leadership. Her talk underscored how today’s executives must remain agile and purpose-driven in the face of continuous change.  

By engaging directly with MBA students, those who are or aspire to become future leaders, Mrs. Hanh highlighted the unique opportunity to meet seasoned professionals who have dedicated years to reaching their positions. “It’s not always a smooth journey for leaders,” she stated. “Students can have a chance to hear authentic stories and insights reflecting real and meaningful leadership journeys shaped over time. This helps them gain a deeper understanding of the authentic path to leadership.” 

Additionally, Mrs. Nguyen Thuy Hanh highlights the importance of equipping people for the future by integrating cross-cultural understanding, sustainability, and digital transformation into MBA programmes, an approach she sees as both timely and essential. 

“In today’s business environment, there are plenty of opportunities, but whether we are well-prepared and courageous enough to seize them is a challenge in itself,” she shared. “Bringing these themes into the MBA programme helps students better understand how the business world operates and be prepared to identify and act on the right opportunities.” 

From Classroom to Boardroom: Empowering Global Leaders of Tomorrow 

During the session, MBA students had the opportunity to raise thoughtful questions revolving around challenges they face in the workplace, particularly in management roles in cross-cultural environments. In response, the speakers provided experience-based advice and offered practical solutions. These open discussions helped students gain valuable insights and walk away with tools to better navigate real-world leadership challenges.  

“What resonated with me most was the sharing of an integrated approach to risk management and the importance of strategic flexibility to maintain corporate sustainability. This insight gave me a clearer perspective on international standards, helping me to adapt the processes in my current work more purposefully,” shared Ms. Nguyen Huong Giang, Business Development Manager, LianLian Global. 

This MBA Guest Talk and Networking event exemplifies the hands-on, globally relevant approach that defines the BUV’s MBA programme. Students are not only learning from academics but also gaining access to real-world insights and leadership practices from those shaping the future of business. 

“BUV’s learning approach goes beyond academic knowledge and focuses on nurturing sustainable leadership thinking and widening the connections,” shared Mr. Ta Duy Hung, Market Research and Business Development Manager, Stavian Chemical. “Events like this truly bridge the gap between theory and practice, between the classroom and today’s complex, multipolar business world.” 

With accredited British education and 100% internationally qualified faculty, BUV is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of leaders, providing them with a comprehensive understanding of global business dynamics and the practical acumen to navigate complex challenges, ensuring they are not just managers but visionary and responsible leaders of tomorrow.  

For information about the BUV’s MBA Programme, please visit: https://www.buv.edu.vn/master-of-business-administration/