Leading for Impact: Lessons from Operations Management

The Hong Kong Jockey Club University of Chicago Academic Complex | The University of Chicago Francis and Rose Yuen Campus in Hong Kong
168 Victoria Road
Mount Davis, Hong Kong Island
Hong Kong SAR

In this special in-person public talk, Amy Ward, Wei Cai Faculty in Residence in Hong Kong, Rothman Family Professor of Operations Management, and Charles M. Harper Faculty Fellow at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, will explore how leadership can be strengthened through the lens of operations thinking. Drawing on her research and teaching in service systems, Ward will share practical frameworks for leading with clarity, empathy, and resilience.
 
The session will also feature a dialogue with Anthony Blitch, Director of Park Operations at Hong Kong Disneyland, and Anita Lai, the resort’s Vice President of Communications and Public Affairs, who also serves as Chairperson of Make-A-Wish Foundation Hong Kong. They will share firsthand experiences of navigating operational challenges, building resilient organizations, and leading through uncertainty, highlighting how mission‑driven leadership can create meaningful impact beyond the workplace. The conversation will bridge global perspectives with Hong Kong’s unique context, offering attendees practical insights and inspiration for strengthening leadership and driving positive change across industries.

This event convenes leaders and changemakers from diverse sectors who are driving innovation, managing systems, and leading teams in complex environments. Whether working in mission-driven businesses, social enterprises, or nonprofits, participants will gain practical insights to strengthen their leadership and operational effectiveness.
 

Speakers:

Amy Ward
Wei Cai Faculty in Residence in Hong Kong
Rothman Family Professor of Operations Management, and Charles M. Harper Faculty Fellow
The University of Chicago Booth School of Business

Anthony Blitch
Director of Park Operations
Hong Kong Disneyland

Anita Lai
Vice President, Communications and Public Affairs, Hong Kong Disneyland;
Chairperson, Make-A-Wish Foundation Hong Kong
 

Learn more and register here.

Event Organizers: The Hong Kong Jockey Club Programme on Social Innovation, operated by Rustandy Center for Social Sector Innovation
Contact Person: Iris Choi