CHRISTINE IP
Greater China CEO
United Overseas Bank
What does your company do?
United Overseas Bank (UOB) is a leading bank in Asia with a global network of more than 500 branches and offices in 19 countries and territories in Asia-Pacific, Europe and North America. In Asia, we operate through our head office in Singapore and banking subsidiaries in China, Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand, as well as branches and offices. UOB was established in 1935 and is today rated among the world’s top banks, with an ‘Aa1’ rating from Moody’s and an ‘AA’ from Standard & Poor’s and Fitch Ratings.
What sort of services are associated with your company?
We provide commercial and corporate banking services, personal financial services, private banking, and other asset management services.
In Hong Kong we have been operating for over 50 years. These days, we focus on wholesale banking, providing a wide range of financial products and services such as global markets and transaction banking products. These are used across all kinds of customer segments including mid- to large-size corporates, multinational companies, financial institutions, and public sectors/NGOs.
What activities do you have planned for your shadows?
We have a three-day banking journey planned for them, giving them the opportunity to network internally with senior managers within the bank and learn about the challenges of the present-day banking business. The shadows will also play visits to various departments to observe banking operations.
What do you hope your shadows will get out of the experience?
Throughout the whole programme, I hope they will put themselves in my shoes, observe and ask questions, and form a rich and detailed mental model of how our bank operates. I also hope they build their own personal network – which will be extremely useful for their future career – and, most importantly, gain a better understanding of people management, which is crucial for a leader.
What leadership skills or lessons are you personally hoping to impart?
In my management philosophy, I allow my people to thrive. I help people in my team put the pieces together, but I don’t micromanage. I consider myself a servant leader rather than a power leader. I tell people that when they shine, I shine. I hope the shadows will be able to learn this kind of leadership spirit.
What skills and experiences are you looking for in applicants?
We are looking for candidates who are passionate about banking and who will consider banking as a career. Students who are creative, willing to learn and are motivated team players will definitely impress us.
What is the job market like for graduates in your industry?
As economic growth continues to gravitate towards Asia with its growing population, banking services that are continually growing will be in need of employees in the areas of client coverage, product development, governance and execution.
