2nd DigitalCFO Asia Hong Kong Symposium 2024

As Hong Kong braces for a projected slowdown in economic growth in 2024, the role of CFOs emerges as pivotal in navigating the challenges ahead. With the city's GDP growth estimated to dip to 2.9%, down from 3.2% in 2023 (according to the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce), companies face a difficult external environment that will continue to impact trade performance. Sectors like retail, which thrived in 2023, may see reduced growth as consumers scale back on revenge spending. Consequently, companies are expected to implement strategic measures to safeguard operations, amplifying the crucial role of Hong Kong CFOs in 2024.

At the inaugural DigitalCFO Asia Hong Kong Symposium last year, 44% of CFOs and finance leaders foresaw a greater focus on tech-driven finance as the top priority in 2024. In response to the economic slowdown, CFOs prioritize cost management and operational resiliency. With the advent of generative AI, CFOs now have a powerful tool at their disposal to identify growth opportunities. AI's advanced analytics analyze diverse data sources, offering insights and automating routine financial tasks. This integration allows CFOs to dedicate more time to strategic analysis and decision-making.

As companies strive for growth, increasing regulations also require them to balance business growth with ESG initiatives. CFOs are instrumental in integrating sustainability principles into financial strategies, supply chain management, and risk assessment frameworks. Embracing ESG initiatives not only contributes to environmental and social welfare but also enhances long-term value creation and resilience.

Collaborations among C-suite executives have soared, with CFOs playing a central role in fostering business partnerships with CMOs, CROs, and COOs. By engaging with key decision-makers across departments, CFOs gain invaluable insights into market trends and customer needs, driving sustainable growth in Hong Kong's dynamic business landscape.

The 2nd DigitalCFO Asia Hong Kong Symposium 2024, themed "CFO Reinvented - Identifying Opportunities through Innovation Amidst Slower Economic Growth", will bring together 120 CFOs and finance leaders to share insights on the latest technology, finance transformation, cross-functional collaborations and ESG initiatives, shaping the trajectory of finance in Hong Kong and beyond. The symposium will serve as a platform for high-level networking, enabling CFOs and finance leaders to exchange best practices, leverage collective expertise and stay ahead in today’s rapidly changing business landscape.

Join us at the 2nd DigitalCFO Asia Hong Kong Symposium where insights, expertise, and strategies converge to shape the future of finance in Hong Kong and beyond. Reserve your seat today to be part of this transformative event!

Discussion Points

Charting New Horizons: The CFO's Role in Driving Finance Innovation and Growth Amid Economic Headwinds
CFO Insights - Exploring the Key Concerns and Considerations of Hong Kong CFOs in 2024
Embarking on a Finance Transformation Journey to drive Business Growth - Pitfalls & Challenges
Aligning Strategic Vision: The CFO's Role in Communicating Finance Transformation Objectives to the Board
Resilient Supply Chains: Strategies for CFOs & Finance Leaders to Mitigate Geopolitical Risks and Ensure Business Continuity
A Paradigm Shift in Financial Decision-Making - Exploring the Impact of Generative AI on Future Finance Functions
The Strategic Imperative - Why CFOs Must Champion Transformation and Change Management Efforts in Organizations
Breaking Barriers - How Female CFOs & Finance Leaders are Pioneering Leadership in Finance
How can CFOs & finance leaders drive ESG initiatives for value creation beyond regulatory compliance?
Business Partnering - How Finance (CFOs) can Collaborate with Marketing/Sales (CMOs) to Drive Organisational Growth
Balancing Employee Expectations and Organizational Objectives in the Era of Gen Z Workforce and Digital Nomad Culture
Crisis Management for CFOs - Strategies for Responding to Cybersecurity Incidents

9:05AM - 9:35AM

Morning Keynote Presentation
Charting New Horizons: The CFO's Role in Driving Finance Innovation and Growth Amid Economic Headwinds

In this morning keynote presentation, we explore the critical role of Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) as visionary leaders driving innovation within the finance realm to navigate economic challenges and foster sustainable growth. Join us as we uncover how CFOs can embrace disruption, leverage emerging technologies, and cultivate a culture of innovation to propel their organizations forward amidst uncertain economic landscapes. Through insightful anecdotes, practical strategies, and forward-thinking perspectives, discover how CFOs can steer their teams towards new horizons of financial excellence and organizational resilience in an ever-evolving business environment.

Speaker:
Dr. Patrick Lau, Deputy Executive Director, Hong Kong Trade Development Council

9:35AM - 9:50AM

Technology Discussion
Bringing AI to Life: AI-powered ERP helps you to Manage your Business Better

Nowadays, Oracle NetSuite embeds AI functionality throughout the system to better support your daily workflows. AI can offer new ways to simplify tasks, suggest actions, and uncover business insights that result in more informed and better decisions.

Speakers:

Vivien Hui, General Manager, Introv Limited
Johnny Chow, Head of Financial Accounting, Hong Kong Express

Moderator:

Wafer Wong, Channel Sales Manager, Oracle NetSuite

9:50AM - 10:30AM

Panel Discussion 1
CFO Insights - Exploring the Key Economic Concerns and Technology Considerations of Hong Kong CFOs in 2024

This discussion delves into the primary economic challenges facing CFOs in the region, navigating through uncertainties and identifying strategic opportunities for growth and resilience. Additionally, the panel examines the pivotal role of technology in shaping financial strategies, operational efficiencies, and risk management practices in the dynamic business environment of Hong Kong. Through comprehensive analysis and expert insights, this discussion equips CFOs and financial leaders with valuable perspectives and actionable strategies to navigate economic complexities and leverage technology for sustainable success in 2024 and beyond.

Speakers:
Angus Tsang, Chief Financial Officer, CN Logistics International Holdings Ltd
Wilkie Wong, Chief Financial Officer, Esquel Group
Clarence Wong, Chief Economist, Peak Re

Kenny Cheng, Alternative Chief Executive & Chief Financial Officer, Welab Bank

Moderator:
Dr. William Chen, CIMA HK Committee Member & Adjunct Professor, Hang Seng University

10:50AM - 11:10AM

Executive Presentation 1
Aligning Strategic Vision - The CFO's Role in Communicating Finance Transformation Objectives to the Board

This session will delve into the pivotal role of the CFO in driving and communicating finance transformation objectives to the board. Explore how CFOs can align strategic vision with organizational goals, leveraging financial insights to propel the company towards sustainable growth. The session highlights best practices and strategies for effective communication, enabling CFOs to navigate the complexities of finance transformation and garner board support for impactful change.

Speaker:

Wilson Ma, APAC Finance Transformation, Mulberry England

1:40PM - 2:00PM

Executive Presentation 2
How can CFOs & finance leaders drive ESG initiatives for value creation beyond regulatory compliance?

Explore how CFOs and finance leaders can go beyond regulatory compliance by driving Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives for value creation. Learn strategic approaches to integrate ESG metrics into financial planning, foster stakeholder engagement, and align financial objectives with societal and environmental goals. Gain insights and practical examples to champion ESG initiatives and drive long-term success in today's dynamic business environment.

Speaker:
Cindy Ngan, Partner, ESG - Climate & Sustainability, PwC Hong Kong & Mainland China

2:20PM - 3:00PM

Panel Discussion 3
Breaking Barriers - How Female CFOs & Finance Leaders are Pioneering Leadership in Finance

A compelling panel discussion that sheds light on the transformative impact of female CFOs and finance leaders in reshaping the landscape of financial leadership. Through insightful dialogue and personal narratives, this panel explores the unique challenges, triumphs, and strategies employed by female finance executives as they navigate and excel in traditionally male-dominated roles. From fostering diversity and inclusion to driving innovation and championing mentorship, the discussion showcases the invaluable contributions of female leaders in propelling organizations towards greater success and sustainability. Join us as we celebrate the trailblazing journeys and collective achievements of female CFOs and finance leaders, inspiring future generations to break barriers and redefine leadership in finance.

Speakers
Caroline Djurvall, Regional Finance Director APAC, McLarens
Julie Chew, Managing Director & Chief Financial Officer, Instinet Pacific

Helen Ahlstedt, Chief Financial Officer APAC, Allegis Group

Moderator:
Akina Ho, Co-Founder of AllStarsWomen DAO

4:00PM - 4:40PM

Panel Discussion 4
Balancing Employee Expectations and Organizational Objectives in the Era of New Generation Workforce and Digital Nomad

Join our panel as we delve into the complex dynamics of managing employee expectations while aligning them with organizational goals within the context of the new generation workforce and the rise of digital nomad culture. Explore strategies, insights, and challenges encountered by organizations in fostering a harmonious environment where employee needs and organizational objectives intersect. From embracing flexibility and remote work to nurturing a culture of collaboration and innovation, discover how organizations can adapt and thrive in the face of evolving workforce trends while maintaining focus on their overarching goals. Gain valuable perspectives and actionable insights from industry experts on achieving synergy between employee expectations and organizational imperatives in today's dynamic work landscape.

Speakers:
Peter Ying, Chief Financial Officer, AliA Biotech Group

Helen Leung, Finance Director APAC Leasing, JLL

Dr Travis Huggins, Finance Director, Asia, City Facilities Management (HKG) Limited

Moderator:

Horace Ma, Chief Financial Officer, S. Culture Holdings (BVI) Ltd

Do I have to pay to attend the symposium?

The DigitalCFO Asia Symposium Series is free to attend for individuals who are currently holding CFOs or senior accounting & finance role in their companies, subject to availability. DigitalNow Asia reserves the final rights to approve or reject any registration should there be any discrepancies between both parties.

Can I register for the event with my personal email (Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail etc)?

No. Registrations must be done with a working company email address. Registrations from generic or free email domains such as Gmail, Yahoo, Outlook, etc will not be accepted.

Do I need to bring along anything for the symposium?

Please bring along the confirmation email and your business cards for registration and networking purposes.

Can I attend the symposium if I am not a CFO or finance professional?

Yes. You can purchase a networking pass here to attend the event, subject to availability and approval from the event organiser.

Can I attend the symposium if I am a vendor or products/service provider?

Yes. Vendors or service providers can participate in the symposium either by:

1) Taking up a sponsorship package
2) Purchasing a networking pass

Do drop us a message here and we will get back to you as soon as we can.

How do I know if my registration is successful?

If your registration is successful, a confirmation email with full event details will be sent to you within 48 hours to confirm your attendance.

Is there a dress code for the symposium?

The dress code for the symposium is business wear

or smart casual.

Is complimentary parking provided for attendees?

No. Complimentary parking is not provided for attendees. However, for some event venues, attendees are able to purchase parking coupons at a special rate for attending the event. Do check with us at events@digitalcfoasia.com

Can I attend the symposium if I am currently not employed?

Yes. However you are not eligible for the complimentary pass. You can purchase a networking pass to attend the event, subject to availability and approval from the event organiser. For more details, please click here.

HONG KONG | 18 APRIL 2024 | 9AM - 5PM

2nd DIGITALCFO ASIA HONG KONG SYMPOSIUM 2024

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CFO Reinvented: Identifying Opportunities through Innovation Amidst Slower Economic Growth

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Do I have to pay to attend the symposium?

Do I need to bring along anything for the symposium?

How do I know if my registration is successful?