In the April chapter of the Chamber’s “Dialogue with the General Committee” series, Roy Ng, Chairman and CEO of Star Lite (HK) Ltd, shared hard-won lessons from his career – spanning retail, healthcare, education and public service – proving that adaptability and boldness can rewrite the rules of success.
After graduating from the University of California, Berkeley, with a degree in Psychology, Roy embarked on an unconventional career path by joining North America’s third-largest retail group as its only Asian executive trainee. Despite having no prior experience in women’s fashion, he led his team to achieve the second-highest sales volume in the company, trailing only the headquarters. This early success set the tone for his future endeavours.
In the late 1980s, Roy moved to Hong Kong to pursue career growth. His first challenge was mastering written Chinese – a daunting task for a third-generation overseas Chinese who only spoke basic Cantonese. “I studied vocabulary cards and ‘Cantonese for Gweilo’ books every night after work,” he recalled. “If I couldn’t find a word in the dictionary, I’d ask my colleagues.”
His second hurdle was adapting to different corporate cultures, mainly while working at the Japanese department store Seibu. Later, when managing European and American employees, his experience in multinational firms proved invaluable.
One of Roy’s most formidable challenges was rescuing The Body Shop from near bankruptcy. “Launching a new brand is easier than reviving one that’s six feet under,” he explained. Under his leadership, the skincare retailer turned a net profit within a year.
Curiosity and willingness to embrace risks have been key to his success. “I’m always exploring new ventures, from leather goods to homeware and electronics,” he said. During the 2008 financial crisis, he launched his first business selling iPhone cases – a move that his friends thought was reckless. However, his mother encouraged him, saying: “Take risks while you’re young and energetic.”
Today, Roy dedicates time to nurturing Hong Kong’s next generation of entrepreneurs as an Adjunct Professor at the City University of Hong Kong. “Businesspeople face countless challenges, but I’m confident most students will succeed,” he said.
Beyond business, Roy is an active member of the Chamber, having served in leadership roles across multiple committees before joining the General Committee in 2022. When asked about balancing advisory positions, he said: “Choose carefully and commit fully.” He also prioritizes self-care through sailing and scuba diving, which provide him with much-needed solitude and a connection to nature.
Despite external uncertainties, Roy remains optimistic. “There’s always light at the end of the tunnel,” he said, adding that every challenge can be transformed into an opportunity with enthusiasm, adaptability and determination.