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Gene Soo
Head of Ecosystem - Global Innovation at MTR | Startup Ecosystem Builder | Connector
Professional Background
Gene Soo is a dynamic professional whose career path reflects his deep-seated passion for innovation, problem-solving, and technology. With a unique blend of expertise in mobile technology, customer strategy, and business development, Gene has made significant contributions to various sectors, particularly in startups and location-based applications.
Currently, he serves as the Head of Ecosystem at MTR Corporation Limited (香港鐵路有限公司), where he harnesses his extensive industry knowledge to foster synergies within the public transport ecosystem to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency. His previous experience includes notable leadership roles such as Managing Director at Luster (formerly Instaprint) and General Manager - Hong Kong at Citymapper, where he drove business initiatives that integrated cutting-edge technology with user-centered design.
Gene's entrepreneurial spirit is underscored by his role as co-founder of StartupsHK, a significant initiative aimed at nurturing the startup community within Hong Kong, showcasing his commitment to empowering emerging businesses. His experiences as an Advisor at organizations like Dimsum Ventures and Susanna Soo Atelier demonstrate his versatility and ability to adapt his extensive knowledge of branding and consumer relationship management across industries.
Education and Achievements
Gene's educational background is as impressive as his professional career. He holds both a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree with a focus on Entrepreneurship and Entrepreneurial Studies from the prestigious Columbia Business School and a Master of Science (MS) in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Carnegie Mellon University. His foundational studies in the same field at the undergraduate level at Carnegie Mellon helped him develop a robust technical background that fuels his innovative approach in tech-driven ventures.
Gene's academic journey also includes a formative experience at Columbia University and the German Swiss International School, where he honed his critical thinking and leadership skills, playing a pivotal role in shaping his perspective on business and technology.
Achievements
Throughout his career, Gene has accumulated a wealth of achievements that speak to his effectiveness as a leader and innovator. His time at Accenture as a Customer Experience Management Consultant equipped him with invaluable insights into customer behavior and strategic decision-making, which he later applied to improve user experiences across various platforms and services.
As a Firmware Engineer at Sandisk Corp., he contributed to the advancement of storage technology, showcasing his ability to blend technical skills with business acumen to drive product innovation. Additionally, his military experience as a Platoon Commander in the Singapore Armed Forces underscores his strong leadership capabilities and strategic thinking.
Gene's diverse interests, from fashion to food, and sports like tennis and snowboarding, illustrate his well-rounded personality. His involvement in green businesses and location-based apps signals a commitment not only to technological advancement but also to sustainable practices. Gene's affinity for gadgets and music, particularly trance, further showcases his creative spirit and love for exploring new trends.
In summary, Gene Soo is a multifaceted professional whose expertise in technology and business development, coupled with a solid educational foundation and diverse interests, positions him as a thought leader in innovation and entrepreneurship. His contributions to startups, his strategic roles in established corporations, and his commitment to enhancing customer experiences make him a notable figure in the field of mobile technology and beyond.
