Standard Chartered has partnered with REE to promote gender-inclusive leadership in Vietnam

Standard Chartered Bank Vietnam, in collaboration with REE Corporation organised a high-level roundtable on “Forging the Future of Women Leadership in Vietnam” in Ho Chi Minh City. The event brought together women leaders from various industries including banking, finance, manufacturing, infrastructure, retail, and real estate, to discuss the evolving role of women in leadership, alongside challenges and opportunities – both in Vietnam and globally.

Ms. Stella Choe, Global Head of Corporate Banking, Standard Chartered Bank shared at the event

The event featured distinguished speakers including Global Head of Corporate Coverage Stella Choe and Vietnam’s CEO and Head of Banking & Coverage Nguyen Thuy Hanh from Standard Chartered, and REE’s Chairwoman Nguyen Thi Mai Thanh. These leaders brought valuable insights, success stories, and actionable plans to support the growth of women in leadership roles.

“The roundtable was part of my official visit to Vietnam, an increasingly important market in our global footprint, and we see immense potential in the country. At Standard Chartered, we believe diverse and inclusive leadership is a business imperative and driver of long-term sustainable growth. The event offered a meaningful opportunity to engage with senior women leaders and explore how we can collectively shape more diverse leadership as a key driver of building resilience and long-term growth across the region,” said Stella Choe, Standard Chartered’s Global Head of Corporate Coverage, during her keynote remarks.

Ms. Nguyen Thi Mai Thanh, Chairwoman of REE shared at the event

REE’s Chairwoman Nguyen Thi Mai Thanh shared her perspective on the evolving role of women, blending modern business challenges with deep cultural roots: “In today’s uncertain global economy, it is essential for women to continuously learn from successful business models and stay inspired to lead meaningful change. We can also draw patriotic strength from the legacy of Hai Bà Trưng, Bà Triệu, and generations of Vietnamese women who led with courage, resilience and a deep sense of duty to their communities and country.”  

Reflecting on Vietnam’s evolving corporate landscape, Standard Chartered Vietnam’s CEO and Head of Banking & Coverage Nguyen Thuy Hanh said, “Women leaders in Vietnam, especially in the finance and banking sector, continue to navigate increasing expectations while striving to lead with confidence and impact. To build a strong pipeline of women leaders in Vietnam, companies must foster inclusive cultures, invest in leadership development, and create equal access to growth opportunities – these actions need to be embedded into business strategies.”

Ms. Nguyen Thuy Hanh, CEO and Head of Corporate and Investment Banking, Standard Chartered Vietnam, shared (2) at the event

Throughout the event, attendees engaged in lively discussion around collaborative efforts for change, identified areas for partnership, barriers faced by Vietnamese women leaders compared to their global counterparts, and practical solutions – ranging from mentorship and leadership training to building inclusive workplace cultures. The event concluded with a strong call to action: to create lasting change, both public and private sectors must work together to elevate women’s capabilities and contributions across all levels of leadership.

Female leaders attending the event

Standard Chartered has been a trusted partner in Vietnam’s growth journey, combining international experience with strong local insight. In 2019, Standard Chartered Vietnam successfully placed REE inaugural VND2.3 trillion ($100 million) fixed-rate 10-year bullet bonds. The bond proceeds have supported REE’s expansion and developments of its buildings in Ho Chi Minh City, including the partial construction of Etown 6 – the first Grade A green building with LEED Platinum Certification. This continued collaboration including co-hosting this roundtable, reflects a shared commitment to sustainable financing, inclusive leadership and long-term progress in Vietnam.

Source: Vietnam Business Forum