My upbringing was influenced by my parents’ backgrounds as educators in China - my father a university lecturer and my mother a kindergarten teacher. Their guidance instilled a structured and disciplined approach to life, and I’d like to think I adhered to most of their expectations. Despite my father’s background in computer engineering and his subsequent career as a software engineer, my parents strongly advised against pursuing a career that’s in any way related to computers. I now reflect on this with amusement as my career path has indeed led me to the world of B2B SaaS, albeit in a way they hadn’t envisioned… Sorry, Mum and Dad!

I began my career in investment banking because it offered a good platform to develop both technical and interpersonal skills straight out of university. During this time, I had the opportunity to work on numerous capital raising transactions, advising executives to secure over $5 billion through the public markets. Whilst these experiences in corporate advisory with ASX-listed companies were invaluable, I was always excited by fast growing start-ups and the rewarding experience of supporting early-stage companies through their journey of exponential growth.

While many start-ups concentrate on optimising industry operations or boosting sales, there’s often less emphasis on protecting businesses. With the rise of GenAI and recent high-profile cyberattacks, I’m particularly interested in exploring the implications for cybersecurity. This shift highlights the growing need for innovative solutions to safeguard businesses against evolving threats.

One piece of advice that has stayed with me since the beginning of my career is: “Treat everyone as you would treat your Managing Director.” The principle behind this advice - valuing and respecting everyone you interact with, regardless of their position - resonated with me. Though not directly related to my career, it aligns with my personal values and has become a guiding principle in my approach to interactions. This is also a value I’ve observed at EVP - whether engaging with colleagues, founders, or anyone we encounter in our daily lives, we strive to treat everyone with the utmost respect.

When I’m not at work, you can probably find me on a tennis court, either missing a shot or messing up my ball toss. If you need someone to make you look like Roger Federer, I’m your player!