Cream of the Crop Executive genius across major industries by Charles Mak Telecommunications, finance and fashion retail are major economic pillars supporting Hong Kong's continued prosperity. Over the past two decades, William Lo has had his finger on the pulse of all three industries Holder of an MPhil degree in molecular pharmacology and a PhD in genetic engineering from Cambridge University, William Lo, currently vice chairman, managing director and chief financial officer of high-fashion retail giant I.T Ltd, initially aspired to become a scientist. However, upon graduating in 1987 he changed his mind. "A very good friend of mine at Cambridge said to me if we believe in and are confident about our analytical skills and brainpower, we can do most anything and do it well," he says. Over the past 20 years, Dr Lo has held executive positions with China Unicom, Citibank, HK Telecom, Cable & Wireless and McKinsey. He is also adjunct professor at Hong Kong Baptist University's School of Business and the Hong Kong Polytechnic University's Faculty of Management, and governor of the Independent Schools Foundation Academy and Junior Achievement HK. Universal skills Dr Lo's career journey has seen him cross industries several times and he can't single out one particular job as his most enjoyable so far. However, he says that the rise of IT offered him valuable space for creativity. During his tenure with Cable & Wireless, Dr Lo started Hong Kong's most popular Internet services brand Netvigator and initiated ITV (interactive television), an innovative idea that opened the door for Now Broadband TV, a spin-off of the original ITV concept. "It wasn't as popular back then, because we were way ahead of our time," he says. "If you want to launch a new business concept, you must pay attention to the timing." This, he stresses, requires common sense, business acumen and analytical skills. "University studies help shape young minds and polish analytical skills," he continues. "It is a process for cultivating thinking and communication abilities — the two most important things to get ahead in career and life. "Beyond that, every industry has its own principles and characteristics that are not difficult to acquire. The 80/20 rule applies; that is, some people put in 20 per cent of their effort to learn about 80 per cent of something. But to grasp the essence, the remaining 20 per cent, you may need to give 80 per cent's effort." Based on his observations and experience, Dr Lo says most people's biggest challenge lies in relationship management. "You can anticipate business outcomes, but developing people relationships is very much like being involved in scientific research because you're dealing with the unknown and with uncertainties," he says. "Learning specific skills is easy, but learning to become a nice person has nothing to do with skills." Perhaps explaining the secret of his success, Dr Lo says, "One of my best qualities is that I'm very nice to people. My father taught me about integrity. Money and businesses come and go. But credibility and reputation, however intangible, will get you far, whichever direction you may go. Life is so full of ups and downs and mistakes are inevitable. If only you have a high level of integrity, people will give you opportunities, whatever happens." Life lessons At the turn of the millennium, Asiaweek magazine named Dr Lo as one of Asia's digital elites, adding to the World Economic Forum young global leader accreditation he was given in 1996. Yet he remains rather casual about his achievements. "I'm a very satisfied person but that doesn't mean I should stop moving forward," he says. "My life philosophy is to work hard and play hard. This is typical of Hong Kong people because of the brisk pace of life. If you want to be in sync with the city rhythm, you must work hard to achieve maximum results, and let your hair down from time to time to unwind." Apart from his passion for exquisite vintage wines, Dr Lo finds a luxurious lifestyle something that he can do without. Now that he is fashion retail guru I.T's top man, his life is more relaxed and he appreciates the chance to take off his executive attire. "It has been some 20 years since I last wore a pair of jeans," he recalls. "Losing that executive look was quite an experience." His inquisitive mind keeps him going. "I like to try new things," he says. "Fashion trends change from one season to another. There is no stopping it. By placing ourselves at the forefront, we can always remain forward-looking." Got an "executive" question? Engage yourself in direct dialogue with Dr Lo and a host of renowned CEOs at Career Times' CEO Career Ladder forum. Taken from Career Times 3 August 2007 Your comments are welcome at [email protected]