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Catherine Leung
Co Founder and Partner at MizMaa Ventures Limited; Chairperson, Chamber of Hong Kong Listed Companies
Professional Background
Catherine Leung has established a formidable career in venture capital and corporate governance, marked by her role as co-founder and partner at MizMaa Ventures. She is a distinguished venture capitalist, known for her strategic insight and leadership in various capacities that bridge finance and technology. As a former Vice Chairman of Asia Investment Banking at J.P. Morgan and Director in Investment Banking at Merrill Lynch, she has honed her expertise in investment strategies and has played a pivotal role in fostering startups and guiding businesses through their growth phases. Her extensive professional journey is characterized by high-level board appointments in numerous prestigious organizations, including her past tenure as Chairperson of the Chamber of Hong Kong Listed Companies, which reflects her commitment to improving the corporate landscape in Hong Kong.
As an influential figure, Catherine has served on various boards including the VentureLab of the University of Pennsylvania and has contributed significantly to entrepreneurial ecosystems through her advisory roles with leading institutions. Her governance extends beyond corporate circles; she was a Council Member at The Better Hong Kong Foundation and has dedicated herself to community advancement and responsible governance. Catherine exemplifies a blend of financial prowess and social responsibility, making her a vital asset in the realms of venture capital and corporate governance.
Education and Achievements
Catherine’s intellectual journey commenced at The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where she obtained a Bachelor of Science in Economics, majoring in Finance and Accounting, with the prestigious accolade of Summa Cum Laude. This academic excellence was further supported by a partial financial scholarship, underscoring her dedication to achieving high standards in her education. This solid foundation in economics and finance has propelled her successful career in investment banking and venture capital.
In recognition of her achievements, Catherine was honored as an Honorary Fellow of the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST). Her commitment to education is mirrored in her involvement with university governance—as she previously served as a Court Member and Member of the Business School Advisory Council at HKUST. This role illustrates her dedication to shaping the future generations of leaders within the business and finance disciplines.
Achievements
Catherine Leung's resume is replete with notable accomplishments that highlight her leadership competencies and wide-ranging expertise. As chairperson of the Chamber of Hong Kong Listed Companies, she has significantly influenced the dialogue surrounding corporate governance and compliance in the region. Through her efforts, she has been instrumental in fostering an environment conducive to business growth and innovation.
Beyond her venture capital endeavors at MizMaa Ventures, she has held numerous board positions across various industries, including technology and the arts. Her tenure at companies such as Corephotonics Ltd and allegro.ai underscores her ability to navigate technological landscapes and contribute to the evolution of artificial intelligence and machine learning sectors. Moreover, Catherine's engagement with the arts, particularly her performances as a member of Opera Hong Kong, illustrates her multifaceted talents and her commitment to cultural outreach in her community.
Catherine’s commitment to public service is evident from her various appointments, such as the Government appointed Lay Member at the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants and Board Observer roles that showcase her influence in the regulatory landscape for financial services. Through her active participation on the REIT Committee at the Securities and Futures Commission, she has contributed to shaping the policies that govern the financial industry in Hong Kong. Her professional journey not only highlights her exceptional business acumen but also her unwavering commitment to community engagement and institutional advancement.
