Building bridges across borders

John Hung’s career is a testament to the power of collaboration, adaptability, and a global mindset. From leading multinational businesses in China to creating opportunities for Warwick Business School (WBS) alumni, John embodies what it means to be a Change Maker - someone who bridges divides, fosters understanding, and drives meaningful progress.

For decades, John has helped multinationals establish themselves in China and supported Chinese businesses expanding overseas. Whether brokering relationships or navigating cultural differences, his work has always been rooted in a belief that success comes from bringing people together.

“For every meeting, we actually needed three – one for the overseas investors, another for the Chinese owners, and the third to bring everyone together and ensure agreement.”

From engineer to global business leader

John’s story began in 1986 when he joined WBS to study an MBA as an ambitious engineer from Hong Kong, likely the first student from China or Hong Kong to complete the course. Eager to broaden his horizons, he sought out the skills and knowledge to transition from technical roles to leadership positions.

At Warwick, John discovered the language of business and the principles of management, immersing himself in an intense, multicultural environment that challenged him to grow. He left inspired and ready to chart a new course in professional services, starting with Deloitte’s London office, where he worked with Chinese companies and multinationals.

By 1996, John had returned to Asia to join Deloitte China. Over the years, he rose to senior leadership roles, including Chair of Deloitte’s Global Chinese Services Group, where he became a trusted advisor to businesses navigating the complexities of multinational operations.

“Business will always be international, whatever the geopolitics.”

Transforming business in a changing China

John has witnessed China’s transformation first-hand—from a low-cost manufacturing hub to a strong economy with a growing middle class. Throughout this journey, he played a key role in helping companies like BASF, Fiat, and General Motors succeed in China, while guiding Chinese businesses as they ventured into global markets.

But for John, it was about more than just business. It was about fostering understanding. He worked tirelessly to help companies bridge cultural divides, ensuring that teams from different backgrounds could collaborate effectively. His efforts helped Chinese companies adapt to international business practices while supporting multinationals in navigating the unique dynamics of the Chinese market.

“To make things happen, you need to ensure everyone can work well together.”

Supporting the next generation of leaders

John’s commitment to building bridges extends far beyond the boardroom. As Chair of the WBS China and Hong Kong Alumni Network, he has created a vibrant community that connects graduates with professional opportunities and supports their career journeys.

During his time at Deloitte, John championed initiatives to support Warwick students, facilitating workplace experiences in China and sponsoring research projects. His efforts opened doors for countless graduates, equipping them with the skills and connections to thrive.

“Our alumni believe we are an excellent Business School and University,” he says, reflecting on the enduring value of the WBS network.

A New Chapter in Leadership

After retiring from Deloitte at 62, John began a new chapter as a coach, helping executives develop the soft skills needed to lead effectively in a globalised world. For John, the values of collaboration and understanding remain more important than ever, especially in today’s challenging geopolitical climate.

He encourages alumni to share their experiences across borders, fostering mutual learning and inspiring the next generation of leaders. “We are international, and we all learn from each other,” he says, with a belief that dialogue and collaboration will always be at the heart of progress.