Leadership Rooted in Experience

Leadership is a term frequently discussed in abstract concepts—as a collection of personality traits to emulate or a high-ranking position to be attained. However, my perspective, shaped by the legacy of my family and my own path in the business world, is that leadership is something demonstrated through action informed by lived experience. Theory is a starting point, but it is insufficient on its own. It is the decisions you make when things are difficult, the long-term outcomes you achieve, and the people you empower along the way that define true leadership.

Throughout my career, I have prioritised understanding over control. Decades of operating within the intricate landscape of Hong Kong’s economy have taught me that short-term victories are often fleeting and hollow. What truly matters is sustainable impact—impact that resonates across teams, communities, and even generations. This requires a leader to have a "long view." You must be able to see beyond the current fiscal quarter or the immediate news cycle to understand how your actions today will ripple into the future.

I view leadership as a platform for service rather than a stage for personal gain. My approach is rooted in the practical: What lessons can we apply today? How can our past failures—which are often more instructive than our successes—inform our future strategy? I believe in sharing these insights generously. In my role as a mentor and through the William SD Louey Educational Foundation, I aim to provide a roadmap for those navigating their own complex challenges. I don't want to just give orders; I want to share the "why" behind the "what."

True leadership also demands a high degree of openness. I have seen firsthand that authority without understanding leads to stagnation and resentment. Conversely, a leader who is grounded in experience but remains humble enough to listen creates an environment of trust. When people feel heard and understood, they are more likely to collaborate effectively and contribute their best ideas. This is how you generate tangible, lasting results.

For those aspiring to grow as leaders, I emphasise the importance of constant reflection. You must evaluate your experiences critically. Identify what worked, what failed, and—most importantly—why. Leadership is less about the accolades on your wall and more about the responsibility you carry.

It is the responsibility to make decisions that positively affect society and to pave the way for the next generation to lead even better than you did. It is a lifelong practice, built on sustained effort and a commitment to creating value that extends far beyond oneself.