Standard Chartered plays a pivotal role in enabling trade, investment and capital flows across major economic regions. The bank’s extensive presence in Asia, Africa and the Middle East allows it to support businesses navigating these markets, while also responding to global economic shifts such as emerging market growth in the East and Global South, supply chain diversification and financial integration with developed economies of the West. 

Standard Chartered Hong Kong and Greater China & North Asia CEO Mary Huen’s leadership has been pivotal in aligning the bank’s strategy with the dynamic needs of both its clients and markets. She has led the bank through a transformative period marked by global economic shifts, rapid technological advancements and evolving client expectations. This strategic alignment reflects her ability and skill to evaluate and respond to global trade dynamics, while leveraging the bank’s international network to unlock cross-border opportunities. 

“Our vision is to act as a bridge across high-growth markets, connecting wealth and commerce in meaningful ways,” Huen said, describing the bank’s unique positioning.

Huen’s tenure has also been defined by a strong emphasis on digital transformation and sustainability, integrating operational efficiency with broader environmental, social and governance (ESG) goals. Key achievements include record-breaking financial performance, strengthened regional connectivity and a significant increase in digital adoption among clients. These accomplishments underscore her ability to balance innovation with resilience in a highly competitive market.

Huen discussed her leadership approach, focusing on her strategic vision, responses to challenges, emphasis on sustainability and innovation. By aligning the bank’s priorities with global trade dynamics, wealth flows and emerging client needs, Huen exemplifies how purpose-driven strategy can create long- term value, highlighting both successes and ongoing challenges.

Strategic vision and achievements

Huen has redefined Standard Chartered Hong Kong and the region’s strategic direction, steering the organisation to capitalise on evolving economic trends and emerging market opportunities. Under her leadership, the bank has built on the strong foundations of traditional corridors, such as those between the East and West, while capitalising on structural shifts to deepen emerging corridors in Asia, Africa and Middle East (AAME) and the Global South. This highlights her ability to leverage evolving trends and the bank’s international network to serve as a superconnector for global trade, wealth and investment.

“Our strategy goes beyond traditional banking; it’s about creating bridges between regions by providing advisory services along with financial services, as they navigate cross-border opportunities across our network,” Huen stated. The emphasis on the Global South capitalises on growing trade corridors, such as the integration of Greater China with Southeast Asia and beyond. Huen has led the bank in facilitating Hong Kong companies’ expansion into Vietnam and supporting Vietnamese enterprises entering the Greater Bay Area, reinforcing the bank’s role as a trusted partner in navigating regional complexities.

Huen’s vision has yielded measurable achievements. In 2023 and 2024, the bank reported robust growth in deposits and wealth management revenues. This success was driven by flagship products like the Marathon Savings Account and Asia Miles Time Deposit, as well as digital transformation efforts. “Our digital strategy offers greater convenience to clients, while allowing frontline colleagues to spend more time on advisory activities which have allowed us to deepen our engagement and broaden our market reach,” she explained.

To ensure the success of her strategy, Huen has focused on fostering alignment across all levels of the organisation. “A vision must inspire action,” she emphasised, citing the importance of clear communication and empowering teams. Externally, the bank has reinforced its position through collaborations with global partners and solutions tailored to local market dynamics.

Digitalisation remains a cornerstone of Huen’s leadership. The bank’s digital-first approach has modernised client engagement, with around 80% of new accounts being opened via online channels. “Digital transformation has enabled us to adapt to evolving client needs while maintaining operational efficiency,” Huen noted.

Navigating challenges with leadership

Huen’s strategic pivot and measurable successes illustrate strong leadership, while earlier investments in digital channels are now driving scalability. However, maintaining relevance and ensuring seamless client experiences across diverse geographies will require continuous adaptation and operational innovation. Huen’s tenure as CEO of Standard Chartered Hong Kong has been marked by her ability to lead through periods of uncertainty and adversity with a focus on resilience, collaboration and innovation. From economic disruptions to geopolitical tensions and the COVID-19 pandemic, her leadership has consistently prioritised stability and long-term opportunity.

One of Huen’s most notable actions during the pandemic was her role in joining a government council aimed at fostering growth and exploration for Hong Kong and Mainland businesses. By working closely with policymakers and industry leaders, she facilitated opportunities for clients to expand into high-potential markets, particularly in South Asia, ASEAN, the Middle East and Africa.

Huen has demonstrated a commitment to sustaining partnerships, even during times of crisis. While many organisations scaled back, she doubled down on alliances with Disney and Cathay Pacific, reinforcing the bank’s long-term focus. “Our partnerships are not just transactional; they are about creating shared value for clients and partners alike,” she explained. During COVID-19, these collaborations were instrumental in driving engagement through innovative products like the Asia Miles Time Deposit, which resonated with clients seeking lifestyle rewards amidst travel restrictions.

Internally, Huen prioritised team morale and staying focused on a shared vision and building for the future. By maintaining open communication and offering flexibility, she ensured that employees felt supported and motivated. “Leadership is about ensuring your people see purpose and possibility, even in challenging times,” she remarked. Huen’s focus on resilience and adaptability has been critical in fostering a cohesive organisational culture.

Reflecting on these experiences, Huen highlighted the lessons learnt from adversity. “Every challenge teaches us to adapt and rethink our strategies. It’s about integrating these lessons into how we operate and lead,” she said. Her ability to balance immediate crisis management with future growth has reinforced the bank’s reputation as a trusted partner.

While Huen’s leadership has effectively navigated crises, balancing short-term support with long-term investments presents ongoing complexities. Sustaining her dual focus on immediate needs and future opportunities will be vital, as the bank continues to evolve in an uncertain global environment.

Market leadership and competitiveness

Standard Chartered continues to assert its market leadership under Huen’s guidance, navigating an increasingly competitive banking environment with agility and innovation. The bank’s dominance in retail and wealth management is a testament to Huen’s deep understanding of client needs and rapidly evolving market dynamics.

“Our strategy revolves around understanding clients’ needs and creating tailored solutions that resonate with their financial goals,” Huen explained. This client-centric approach has been exemplified by flagship products like the Asia Miles Time Deposit and Marathon Savings Account. These offerings balance practicality with aspirational rewards, attracting high-net-worth individuals and affluent clients while enhancing engagement across segments.

To maintain its edge, Huen has prioritised adaptability in response to shifting market dynamics. “The banking industry is evolving rapidly, and staying relevant requires us to be nimble and innovative,” she noted. Digital transformation has been a cornerstone of this adaptability.

Huen acknowledged the need to continuously refine approaches in a fast-changing environment. “Competition pushes us to innovate, but it also means we must anticipate disruptions and adapt quickly,” she remarked. The emergence of new players, technologies and client expectations requires a relentless focus on differentiation and quality.

While Standard Chartered’s market leadership reflects robust strategic execution, sustaining this position will demand ongoing innovation and resilience. As new entrants and technologies reshape the financial landscape, the bank must balance growth ambitions with maintaining client trust and service excellence.

Future-ready workforce and sustainability

Huen has consistently emphasised the importance of building a future-ready workforce to support Standard Chartered’s long-term growth and sustainability goals. Her leadership has focused on fostering a culture of adaptability, innovation and inclusivity, ensuring the bank is well-prepared to navigate an evolving financial landscape.

A cornerstone of Huen’s strategy has been upskilling employees to meet the demands of digital transformation. “Equipping our teams with the right tools and knowledge is critical to staying ahead,” she explained. Through initiatives such as digital literacy programmes and leadership development workshops, the bank has empowered its workforce to embrace new technologies and work methods. These efforts have resulted in improved operational efficiency and a stronger alignment between employee capabilities and the bank’s strategic objectives.

Huen’s commitment to sustainability has also been a defining feature of her tenure. The bank has integrated ESG principles into its core strategy, reflecting a long-term commitment to creating value for both clients and society. Initiatives such as financing renewable energy projects and supporting sustainable trade have reinforced this focus. “Sustainability is not just a priority — it’s a responsibility,” she remarked, emphasising the need for businesses to contribute positively to the communities they serve.

Another key aspect of Huen’s approach is fostering diversity and inclusion. Under her leadership, the bank has implemented programmes to promote gender equality, expand opportunities for underrepresented groups and create a more inclusive workplace culture. These initiatives align with Standard Chartered’s global sustainability goals, ensuring the bank remains competitive while upholding its values.

Huen’s ability to integrate sustainability and workforce development reflects her forward-thinking approach. By linking immediate business priorities with long-term goals, she has positioned the bank to thrive in a rapidly changing environment.

While Huen’s initiatives have laid a solid foundation for sustainability and workforce readiness, maintaining momentum in these areas will require continuous investment and innovation. Balancing immediate operational demands with the need for long-term resilience remains a critical challenge for the bank.

Team leadership and collaboration

Huen has demonstrated a strong commitment to building a cohesive and empowered leadership team at Standard Chartered. Her ability to foster alignment and collaboration among senior leaders has been instrumental in driving the bank’s strategic goals and navigating complex challenges.

“A strong leadership team is the backbone of any successful organisation,” Huen remarked. To ensure alignment, she prioritises regular engagement with her leadership team, encouraging open dialogue and shared accountability. This collaborative approach has enabled the team to respond swiftly to market shifts and make unified decisions that support the bank’s vision.

Huen’s strategy also involves empowering leaders across all levels of the organisation, as chair of the group’s Leadership Council. Through structured leadership development programmes and mentorship initiatives, she ensures that future leaders are equipped to carry forward the bank’s values and priorities. “Empowering leadership is about creating a ripple effect —ensuring everyone, from senior executives to team managers, understands their role in achieving our goals,” she said.

The impact of this approach is evident in the bank’s ability to execute complex initiatives, such as regional trade connectivity projects and digital transformation efforts. These successes reflect the strength of Huen’s leadership team and their collective commitment to the bank’s mission.

While Huen’s focus on leadership alignment and empowerment has driven results, maintaining this cohesion in a dynamic and competitive environment will require ongoing engagement and adaptability.

Vision in action

Huen’s tenure as CEO has been defined by her ability to balance strategic vision with operational execution, navigating challenges while driving the bank toward sustained growth and relevance. Her focus on embracing the traditional East-West corridor to seizing emerging opportunities in the Global South reflects a keen understanding of shifting global economic power and the need for adaptability in a dynamic financial landscape.

“While the bank is well-positioned to capture opportunities from structural shifts such as ‘China+1’ and growth in Asia, that are driving increased intra-Asia trade, we still very much remain a connector across multiple corridors that cover the East, West, and intra-Asia. It is our unique footprint across AAME that enables us to capture the opportunities,” Huen said.

Under her leadership, Standard Chartered Hong Kong has achieved significant milestones, including double-digit growth in deposits and wealth management revenues, strengthened partnerships and a robust digital transformation strategy. Her emphasis on aligning the bank’s vision with emerging market opportunities and sustainability goals demonstrates her long-term approach to value creation.