Cover Norma Chu and Manav Gupta in this month’s great debate on innovation (Photo: Affa Chan for Gupta)
Norma Chu and Manav Gupta in this month’s great debate on innovation (Photo: Affa Chan for Gupta)
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Manav Gupta, CEO of global venture accelerator Brinc, goes head-to-head with Norma Chu, founder and CEO of Day Day Cook, in this month’s great debate on the need for innovation
Manav Gupta says: Yes it is
“In today’s rapidly changing world, the ability to innovate, anticipate and respond to new challenges and opportunities is more critical than ever. Innovation embodies the frontier of human progress, where stakes extend beyond economic success to include environmental sustainability, food security, digital transformation, intelligent automation and so much more. Innovation is the lifeblood of any successful venture—a belief in the architecture of the future, where technology and ethics converge to solve humanity’s most pressing challenges. High-impact sectors need more innovators who recognise the world was designed by those no smarter than any of us, and it’s now on us to reimagine it all—this time with better-designed and more sustainable systems. Without innovation, industries stagnate, economies falter and societies cease to advance.”
Norma Chu says: No, not necessarily
“Innovation is undoubtedly valuable, but I’ve come to see it isn’t the be-all and end-all in business. We often celebrate disruptive ideas but the reality is that many successful companies thrive on continuous, incremental improvements—what the Japanese call kaizen—or by being fast followers who perfect existing concepts. In my journey, the make- or-break factor has been the team. Building a cohesive unit that shares the founder’s vision, and embedding a culture that breathes resilience and passion, are critical. Especially in today’s challenging market—it’s not just about what you do but who you do it with. A team aligned in purpose becomes your company’s bedrock, turning even the smallest innovations into impactful realities. While I admire innovation’s role, I believe the continuous success of business lies within the hearts and minds of those who carry out its mission.”
Credits
Photography: Affa Chan/Tatler Hong Kong for Manav Gupta
As Content Director at Tatler Hong Kong, Tara shapes the brand's editorial vision across social, digital and print, and reports on Asia's most influential figures — from CEOs and leaders across business, style and the arts. In her dual role as Head of VIP, she also drives the planning and execution of Tatler's flagship IPs, curating star-studded events and building the relationships and communities that define the brand. Born and raised in the Middle East, she honed her craft in Dubai, crafting communication strategies for luxury brands across the Gulf. Follow her on Instagram @tarasobti.
