Cover This month’s weigh-in debate on family business and legacy features Roman Chao and Julian Yau (Photo: Gordon Lau for Julian Yau)
This month’s weigh-in debate on family business and legacy features Roman Chao and Julian Yau (Photo: Gordon Lau for Julian Yau)
1 / 1
Roman Chao, senior manager in the property, sales and rental department for Cheuk Nang Holdings, a business owned by his father Cecil Chao, goes head to head with Julian Yau, brand director of Puyi Optical and son of the company’s founder Jeffery Yau, in this month’s great debate
Roman Chao: Yes
“I believe we have an obligation to contribute towards our family business and legacy. For me, contributing to Cheuk Nang is a way to honour my family and show appreciation. The weight of family responsibility can be quite heavy, and I understand others may have vastly different circumstances and relationships with their parents. Relationships aside, I believe we should give back [by honouring] the privileges that our family has given us growing up.
As the newest Cheuk Nang team member, I’m honoured to be mentored by my father, as well as my siblings Gigi and Howard. Their deep expertise and knowledge have been instrumental in my development. Continuing the family’s legacy, when possible, is a way to respect those roots while applying new perspectives [and in turn] evolve the business. It’s about balancing tradition and innovation, and is grounded in gratitude for the foundations our parents have built.”
Julian Yau says: No
“No, I wouldn’t say so. I’d argue that any sense of obligation should be proportional to how well one’s character and strengths align with the needs of the family business. In the end, the true measure of our contribution lies in the broader value we add to society, irrespective of the platform we choose.
I decided to join my family business after considerable self-reflection and preparation, guided by advice from mentors. Ultimately, I felt that I could make a more meaningful impact in the world by being part of this business, family ties aside. I believe obligations arise from embracing the business’s broader goals and increase with each phase of involvement.
Committing to the family business means honouring its history and upholding core values, [which lead to] long-term success. Active involvement requires introducing new ideas and energy while prioritising the business’s longevity over immediate gains or personal ambitions. Thus, it’s an ongoing commitment rather than an inherent obligation.”
Credits
Photography: Gordon Lau (Yau)
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.
