Strategy – Empathy – Global Mindset: 3 Key Takeaways from the CEO of Standard Chartered Bank
July 14, 2025
Last week, students from VinUni MBA in Innovation and AI program had the valuable opportunity to learn directly from Ms. Nguyễn Thúy Hạnh, CEO of Standard Chartered Bank Vietnam. With over 30 years of experience in banking, Ms. Hạnh shared insightful perspectives on global strategy, leadership in the AI era, and the value of empathy in modern business environments.
1. Global Strategy: Not everyone has the same perspective!
Ms. Hạnh highlighted the contrast in how international banks assess Vietnam’s market. While some institutions had withdrawn due to a lack of a “shared future,” Standard Chartered identified Vietnam as a long-term strategic destination.
From a student’s perspective, Mai Tuấn Minh, MBA participant, shared:
“I realized that in business, perspective matters a lot – and strategies often reflect a nation’s history, global standing, and mindset.”
2. Empathetic Leadership
Ms. Hạnh emphasized the importance of continuous learning – from upskilling (enhancing existing skills) to reskilling (acquiring new ones) – so that individuals can not only keep up with technology but also unlock their full potential.
In the fast-changing landscape of AI, she believes that organizations must actively train, support, and guide their people – rather than leave them behind.
3. Set ambitious goals – and help people believe they can achieve them.
Ms. Hạnh introduced a compelling concept: Dual-Target Leadership – setting both baseline goals (realistic targets) and aspirational goals (stretch targets). This approach ensures teams stay grounded yet motivated to grow.
Leadership, she notes, is not only about setting the direction – but also about instilling belief in the team that they can reach it together.
A heartfelt thank you
We sincerely thank Ms. Nguyễn Thúy Hạnh for a session that was not only insightful in content, but also inspiring in spirit. Her sharing served as a powerful reminder of the role of empathy in shaping globally minded leaders.
