Ms Serena ZHENG
Ms Serena ZHENG
Study
I am an investment professional and corporate executive with extensive experience in cross-border investment, asset management, and legal structuring. As Director of Soundwill (Hong Kong) Limited, I focus on strategic investments across real estate and high-growth technology sectors.
Previously, as Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Great Wall Pan Asia Holdings Limited (HKEX: 583), I led the acquisition and transformation of the former SCMP-listed entity, building a real estate portfolio of approximately HKD 10 billion. The portfolio achieved near-full occupancy and significant income growth despite a challenging market environment. I also participated in large-scale cross-border transactions, including a landmark HKD 23 billion acquisition alongside leading global investment institutions.
My career began at Baker McKenzie, where I developed a strong foundation in legal and transactional structuring, which continues to inform my investment approach.
I pursued the DIREC programme to deepen my understanding of the intersection between real estate, policy, and social challenges, particularly in the context of aging populations and cross-border dynamics.
With extensive industry experience, I sought to complement practical knowledge with academic rigor—developing a more structured, research-based perspective to address complex issues such as senior housing, sustainability, and regional integration within the Greater Bay Area.
I chose PolyU for its strong reputation in real estate and construction, as well as its applied, industry-oriented research approach. The interdisciplinary nature of the DIREC programme aligns well with my professional background and research interests.
The flexible programme structure also allows me to balance academic pursuit with ongoing professional responsibilities. Equally valuable is the opportunity to engage with a diverse cohort of professionals, enabling meaningful exchange between academia and industry.
The DIREC programme has strengthened my ability to integrate academic frameworks with real-world investment and policy challenges. It has enhanced my analytical capabilities and provided structured methodologies to approach complex issues in real estate and urban development.
The programme also broadened my perspective on sustainability, cross-border systems, and the role of institutional design-allowing me to think more strategically about long-term value creation in both industry and society.
Through the programme, I aim to apply research insights to real-world investment and policy contexts, particularly in senior housing and cross-border elderly care.
I also expect the doctorate to strengthen my ability to contribute to industry development, policy dialogue, and strategic decision-making-bridging capital, technology, and social needs.
I would encourage prospective candidates to approach the programme with a clear sense of purpose—linking academic research closely with real-world challenges.
The DIREC journey is not only about gaining knowledge, but also about developing new ways of thinking. Engaging actively with peers from diverse backgrounds can significantly enrich the experience.
Most importantly, perseverance and curiosity are essential, as the programme offers a unique opportunity to grow both professionally and intellectually.
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