Cover These three female leaders are making power moves in their respective industries (Image courtesy of Shangri-La (Kuok); courtesy of MTR (Yeung).
These three female leaders are making power moves in their respective industries (Image courtesy of Shangri-La (Kuok); courtesy of MTR (Yeung).
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These three female leaders are making power moves in their respective industries. Tatler dives into why Kuok Hui Kwong, Victoria Penman and Jeny Yeung are forces to be reckoned with
A hospitality dynasty's next chapter
Kuok Hui Kwong’s promotion to CEO of Shangri-La Asia on August 1 consolidates her role as both chairman and executive director, marking a decisive moment for one of Asia’s most prestigious hotel chains. The 47-year-old oversees a portfolio of 105 hotels reportedly valued at US$2.2 billion, but her ascension represents far more than nepotistic succession within Malaysia’s
wealthiest family. The sixth of tycoon Robert Kuok’s eight children, Kuok was appointed Shangri-La’s executive director in 2016 and assumed the chairmanship the following year. Her stewardship proved particularly crucial during the pandemic, with its impact on hospitality. After three years of losses, Shangri-La reportedly turned a profit of US$184.1 million in 2023, which positioned the group for recovery. Beyond the balance sheet, Kuok is reimagining luxury hospitality for a new generation. Her focus on digital transformation and sustainable practices means she’s not merely preserving her father’s legacy but actively reshaping it. Her new roles highlight Shangri-La’s intent to simplify decision-making in today’s fiercely competitive market.
Above Kuok Hui Kwong (Image courtesy of Shangri-La)
Kuok Hui Kwong (Image courtesy of Shangri-La)
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Transit's transformative leader
Jeny Yeung’s promotion to CEO of the MTR Corporation from January 2026 makes her the first female chief executive in the transport giant’s 45-year history. Her appointment comes at a pivotal moment, as Hong Kong’s rail network faces pressure to modernise while maintaining its world-renowned efficiency. Yeung joined the MTR in 1999 and played a key role in expanding its retail and advertising businesses, spearheading digital transformation and promoting smart mobility. Her commercial acumen transformed the company from just a transport operator into a vibrant lifestyle hub, with non-fare income supporting the corporation’s financial stability. Her three-year mandate as CEO involves navigating complex challenges: integrating new rail lines, enhancing the customer experience through technology and maintaining service reliability while managing ageing infrastructure— something Yeung will no doubt tackle with ease, thanks to her deep institutional knowledge.
Meet the Pioneering Female Team Leading a Family Office in Hong Kong
Above Jeny Yeung (Image courtesy of MTR)
Jeny Yeung (Image courtesy of MTR)
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Sport's new change agent
Victoria Penman’s appointment as director of Laureus Sport for Good Hong Kong comes as the foundation, which was launched in 2024, expands its presence. Penman’s role involves amplifying two decades of work while expanding sporting programmes that transform young lives across the region. Penman’s path to this role began in 2018 with a 100km fundraising trek in the Himalayas, where she witnessed how sport could improve children’s education, employment prospects and mental well-being. This experience catalysed her commitment to the cause, leading her to complete two additional international challenges and ultimately raise over US$3 million for charitable organisations through Force for Good, a Laureus charitable initiative. Her corporate pedigree includes roles at HSBC, Barclays and Sun Life, alongside her work with UN Women and UK charities. What makes Penman particularly compelling is her focus on addressing pressing issues including mental health, inclusivity and resilience through initiatives like Model City Hong Kong, which uses sport to improve the mental health and well-being of children and young people. Through Laureus’s partnerships with the likes of Hong Kong China Rugby Union, the Hong Kong Jockey Club and the Hong Kong Football Club, she’s building an ecosystem where sport becomes a catalyst for social transformation.
Above Victoria Penman (Image courtesy of Penman)
Victoria Penman (Image courtesy of Penman)
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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.
