When Steven Lyu (HKUST MBA Part-Time Weekly Intake 2023) relocated from Shanghai to Hong Kong in 2022, it marked more than a change of scenery—it was the start of a new chapter through HKUST’s MBA program. Now serving as CFO of HK Express, Steven reflects on how the experience shaped his thinking, broadened his perspective, and supported his transition into a new environment. The move wasn’t just about career—it was also about building new connections and reassessing priorities.
A Career Built on Numbers, A Mind Open to Questions
With over 12 years of experience in auditing, M&A, and portfolio management, Steven had built a solid foundation in finance. His career with Swire began at Cathay Pacific and led him to HK Express. Yet, his decision to pursue an MBA was driven by more than professional advancement—it was a chance to pause and refine his leadership approach. “We are not just learning new knowledge, but we are also reflecting on ourselves,” Steven shares, recalling a moment from Professor Chris Doran’s Applied M&A course. “The program forced us to make a strategy case on ourselves—questioning our market value, our goals, and how we position ourselves.”
Beyond the Familiar: Learning Outside the Finance Lens
Despite his finance background, Steven found the MBA program challenging him in unexpected ways. As an English major, diving into data analytics and statistics stretched his thinking. The diverse cohort—from entrepreneurs to family business successors—encouraged him to approach leadership and problem-solving differently. These interactions sparked conversations that went beyond theory, touching on values, decision-making, and cross-industry perspectives.
A Place to Try, A Space to Learn
One of the most valuable aspects of the program, Steven notes, was the opportunity to experiment in a low-risk setting. “You can fail with no repercussions,” he explains. “It’s the least costly way to make mistakes you cannot afford in real life.” This environment allowed him to test leadership styles, refine communication, and receive feedback. It gave him the confidence to apply new approaches in his role, knowing he had already explored them in a supportive space.
Global Views, Local Lessons
A GNAM week exchange at the University of British Columbia gave Steven the chance to work on social challenges in Vancouver’s downtown eastside. These experiences, along with regular interactions with classmates from various industries, helped him develop a broader view of leadership and collaboration. Exposure to real-world issues and diverse perspectives reinforced the importance of empathy and strategic thinking.
Connections That Last, Lessons That Stay
While the MBA strengthened his technical knowledge in IT systems, marketing, and strategy, Steven emphasizes that the most valuable outcomes weren’t on his resume. The friendships and personal insights gained were especially meaningful during his early days in Hong Kong. The program offered more than academic rigor—it created a network of peers who continue to exchange ideas and support each other.
Advice from Experience: Think Beyond the Next Job
To future MBA candidates, Steven offers a clear message: focus less on immediate job outcomes and more on long-term direction. “Think about what person you want to be in the long term,” he advises. For him, the value of the MBA lies in the clarity and confidence it helped him build. He encourages others to approach the experience with openness and curiosity, using it to explore ideas and challenge assumptions.
