Topic: Diversity and Inclusion

In this session, we will explore the significance of diversity and inclusion in organizations, the challenges they present, and the strategies to create a more inclusive workplace.

Diversity refers to the representation of different backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences within a group or organization. Inclusion, on the other hand, focuses on creating an environment where every individual feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique insights and talents.

The benefits of diversity and inclusion are far-reaching. Research has consistently shown that diverse teams and organizations outperform their homogeneous counterparts. By bringing together individuals with diverse backgrounds, skills, and perspectives, organizations can foster innovation, creativity, and problem-solving. Moreover, diverse teams are better equipped to understand and serve diverse customer bases, leading to improved business outcomes.

However, achieving true diversity and inclusion is not without its challenges. Organizations must address biases, stereotypes, and systemic barriers that hinder the full participation and advancement of underrepresented groups. It requires a commitment to creating inclusive policies, practices, and cultures that embrace diversity at all levels.

During this panel discussion, we have gathered experts and thought leaders who will share their insights, experiences, and strategies for fostering diversity and inclusion in organizations. We will explore topics such as unconscious bias, inclusive leadership, recruitment and retention practices, and the role of diversity in driving innovation and business success.

Agenda

01.00 – 01.20: Presentation by Coach Luong Ngoc Tien, Board Member of HAWEE

01.20 – 01.40: Presentation by WIB SC EuroCham Chairwoman- Sarah Galeski

01.40 – 02.10: Presentation: “Child Rights and Business: Opportunity for Promoting Diversity and Inclusion” By Anjanette Saguisag, Chief of Social Policy and Governance, UNICEF VietNam.

02.10 – 02.30 Presentation: Merck Vietnam – A High-Impact Culture that fosters Diversity, Equality and Inclusion” By Van Nguyen Thi My, Merck, Country HR Lead

02.30 – 02.45: Coffee Break

02.45 – 03.30: Discussion Panel

Break-out room info

  • Location: Black Room, 1st floor, Pullman Saigon Center, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
  • Time: 13.00 – 15.30
  • Date: 1 December 2023

Moderator

Kim Francois, Executive Director and Board Member of BeLuxCham Vietnam

Kim Francois, Executive Director and Board Member of BeLuxCham Vietnam, moved to Vietnam in 2022 after almost 13 years in China. With over 10 years as Managing Director of Materialise, a global leader in 3D imaging and printing, Kim has been at the forefront of implementing 3D printing for sustainable manufacturing across industries. Before BeLuxCham, she served as Global Business Development Director at HeyGears, a leading Chinese company using Industry 4.0 technologies to transform healthcare sustainably.

Kim, now part of the Women in Business (WIB) board since July 2023, and a EuroCham board member since August 2023, leverages her extensive experience and sustainability focus to drive growth for the Belgium and Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce.

Speakers

Luong Ngoc Tien

With a decade of international experience spanning Vietnam, China, and the Netherlands, Ms. Tien is the visionary founder of One Life Connection, a boutique company specializing in Mindfulness-based training and coaching in Vietnam since 2012.

As the first Search Inside Yourself Certified Teacher in Vietnam, Ms. Tien brings nearly 20 years of business and people development experience to her transformative work. A standing board member of HAWEE, she actively contributes to leadership forums and prestigious events, emphasizing Emotional Intelligence, Mindfulness, Happiness, and Wellbeing in the workplace.

Holding an MBA from the Rotterdam School of Management, she is recognized for her extraordinary professionalism and holistic approach to transformation. Ms. Tien, with her brilliant mind and intuitive leadership, continues to shape the landscape of mindfulness and leadership development, leaving a lasting impact on those she encounters.

Anjanette Ani Saguisag

Ani’s commitment to child rights spans over two decades, starting as a public interest lawyer for women and children. With extensive experience in social policy, legal reforms, and public investments, she collaborated with various stakeholders in the Philippines.

Joining the United Nations in 2006, Ani focused on child protection from neglect, abuse, and violence. In 2017, she assumed a leadership role in social policy programming. In September 2022, Ani joined UNICEF VietNam as Chief of Social Policy and Governance, leading a dedicated team in supporting the Government of Vietnam to reduce child poverty and integrate child rights into social policies.

An advocate for Child Rights and Business Principles, Ani holds degrees in Industrial Psychology and Law. Married to an environmental lawyer and a mother of five, she views child rights as a personal commitment and eagerly collaborates for a child-friendly Vietnam.

Sarah Galeski

Sarah Galeski, Counsel at Tilleke & Gibbins in Ho Chi Minh City, specializes in labor and employment law, compliance, and dispute resolution. With over 15 years in legal services, she’s been based in Vietnam since 2013, representing multinational companies in various industries.

Recognized by The Legal 500 Asia Pacific, Sarah advises on employment contracts, labor regulations, and global transactions. Beyond her legal role, she actively contributes to business communities, serving on the Board of Directors for the Canadian Chamber of Commerce and as Co-Chair of EuroCham’s Women in Business Sector Committee.

Sarah’s expertise extends to consultations with the International Labor Organization and the European Parliament. Prior to Vietnam, she litigated diverse cases in Canada, showcasing her broad legal experience.

Nguyen Thi My Van

Van has been at the helm as Country HR Head at Merck Vietnam since June 2010, driving HR strategies for a 100-million-Euro business in Healthcare and Life Science with 220 employees. She has led successful initiatives in talent development, retention, and diversity and inclusion, earning Merck’s APAC People and Culture Award.

Her dynamic HR journey includes roles at LogiGear Vietnam and Norfolk Hotel. Van is a leader in Merck WIL-ASIA and holds a SHRM-SCP Credential, showcasing her commitment to HR excellence. She recently completed a Master’s program in Leadership in Service Innovation from the University of Queensland.

Van’s impact is defined by her creative and inspiring HR solutions, business acumen, and inclusive mindset. A Bachelor’s in English Linguistics and Literature from The University of Social Sciences and Humanities laid the foundation for her journey. Van’s dedication to continuous growth is evident in her ongoing pursuit of HR excellence.

Topic: Transparency and Disclosure

In this session, The speakers will delve into the importance of transparency and disclosure practices, their impact on the business environment in Vietnam, and the challenges and opportunities they present.

Transparency and disclosure are fundamental pillars of good corporate governance. They involve the timely and accurate communication of relevant information to stakeholders, including investors, employees, customers, and the wider public. By providing clear and comprehensive information, organizations can build trust, attract investment, and foster a favorable business environment.

In Vietnam, as the economy continues to grow and attract foreign investment, the need for transparency and disclosure becomes even more critical. Transparent practices not only enhance investor confidence but also contribute to the overall stability and sustainability of the corporate sector. By providing stakeholders with access to reliable information, organizations can make informed decisions, mitigate risks, and drive long-term value creation.

However, achieving transparency and disclosure in Vietnam’s corporate sector is not without its challenges. Cultural norms, legal frameworks, and historical practices may pose obstacles to the adoption of robust transparency and disclosure practices. Additionally, there may be a lack of awareness and understanding of the benefits of transparency, as well as concerns about competitive disadvantage or reputational risks.

During this panel discussion, we have gathered experts and industry leaders who will share their insights, experiences, and strategies for promoting transparency and disclosure in Vietnam’s corporate sector. We will explore topics such as regulatory frameworks, reporting standards, corporate governance practices, and the role of technology in enhancing transparency.

Agenda

13.00 – 13.20: Presentation: “How Vietnamese companies are tackling the lack of transparency on ESG data” by Mr. Nguyễn Hữu Nam – Deputy Director, Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry

13.20 – 13.40: Presentation: “Disclosure of ESG commitments in the banking sector – Initial progress towards sustainability” by Ms. Bui Thu Loan, Coordinator of the Assessment of ESG policies and commitment of Vietnamese Commercial Banks, Fair Finance Vietnam

13.40 – 14.10: Presentation: “ESG & Data Protection Strategy at PNJ” By Mr. Phan Van Anh – Head of IT, Phu Nhuan Jewelry JSC & Mr. Le Pham Hieu Nguyen – Head of Data, Phu Nhuan Jewelry JSC

14.10 – 14.30: Presentation: “Impact of the Vietnamese bank system on SME’s” By Mr. Marc Vanborren – Co-founder & Manager, Belvie Chocolate

14.10 – 14.45: Coffee Break

14.45 – 15.30: Discussion Panel

  • Location: Red Room, 2nd Floor, Pullman Saigon Hotel
  • Time: 13:00 – 15:30
  • Date: December 1st, 2023

Moderator

Jean-Jacques Bouflet, Vice-Chairman, EuroCham

After studying law in France and Germany, Mr Bouflet served the European Commission for 37 years. Among others he participated to the negotiations of the WTO Agreement and also to the taskforce for the accession to the EU of Sweden, Finland and Austria. As member of the legal service of the Commission, he acted for many years as litigator of the EU in the WTO Dispute Settlement Panels. He was also Deputy Representative of the European Commission in France. Finally, he was posted as Head of Trade Affairs in the EU Delegation to Thailand and subsequently in the Delegation to Vietnam where he participated to the lead negotiators meetings of the EVFTA.

Nguyen Huu Nam

Nguyen Huu Nam, Deputy General Director at VCCI Ho Chi Minh City Branch, is a seasoned professional with a significant impact on Vietnam’s legal and economic landscape. His expertise includes serving as an EVFTA rules of origin expert for the EU-funded “Technical Assistance for the ARISE+ Programme in Viet Nam” from June 2022 to April 2023.From 2011 to June 2020, Nam directed the Legal Department at VCCI-HCM, playing a pivotal role in business legal frameworks. Simultaneously, he contributed expertise to the Vietnam Trade Facilitation Alliance (VTFA) supported by USAID from July 2015 to May 2018.

Nam’s career began in 1998 at the Legal Department of VCCI-HCM, progressing to Deputy Director from 2003 to 2011. His extensive experience includes research, presentations, and training on Free Trade Agreements’ rules of origin, impacting business environments in Vietnam.

Beyond organizational roles, Nam actively engages in knowledge dissemination as a guest speaker, covering topics like trade facilitation, sustainable development, circular economy, climate change, renewable energy, and low carbon emission. Nam is a distinguished figure contributing significantly to Vietnam’s business and economic growth.

Bui Thu Loan, Coordinator of the Assessment of ESG policies and commitment of Vietnamese Commercial Banks, Fair Finance Vietnam

Education: Doctor degree
Position: Project Coordinator: Assessing ESG policy commitments of Vietnamese Commercial Banks, Vietnam Fair Finance Initiative
Speaker bio: Research – Teaching – Policy consultation on Finance and Banking

Marc Vanborren, Co-founder and Manager of Belvie chocolate

Marc Vanborren, co-founder and manager of Belvie Chocolate, craft chocolate maker. Direct, ethical, and fair trade as well as environmental concern and sustainability are the base of the high-quality Chocolate of Belvie.

Topic: GHG Emission Reduction


In recent years, Vietnam has seen an annual generation of over 15 million tons of solid waste from various sources. Urban areas account for over 80% of this waste, while the remaining portion is attributed to industrial sources. It is important to note that the collection and treatment of waste is only carried out for a small percentage of the total waste generated. In cities, the rates of waste collection and treatment surpass 70%, but in rural areas, those numbers are roughly 20%. The primary sources of emissions include CH4 emissions originating from landfill waste that has been collected, emissions coming from both industrial and household wastewater, N2O emissions arising from domestic wastewater sludge, as well as CO2 and N2O emissions resulting from waste incineration procedures. In general, the waste industry contributes a very small percentage (ranging from 2.5% to 5.3%) to the overall composition of national emissions.

The agricultural and energy sectors exhibit the largest percentage of emissions, followed by industrial processes, waste and land use, land use change, and forestry. However, it is anticipated that there will be an important increase in emissions originating from the energy sector in the near future. This growth will include both the overall quantity of emissions and their relative contribution to the overall emissions framework. Like many other nations, the energy sector is projected to have the highest proportion of emissions within the national economic framework in the years to come. 

This break-out session will focus on “The Science behind Climate Change” and will dive into the scientific basis of climate change, the role of GHG emissions, and their impact on global warming. It will provide clear examples through case studies on how enterprises reduce their GHG emission and the relevance of climate science to businesses.

Break-out room info

  • Location: Yellow Room, 2nd Floor, Pullman Saigon Hotel
  • Time: 13.00-15.30
  • Date: December 1st, 2023

Moderator

Sergio Pereira da Silva, Vice Chairman of EuroCham Vietnam Green Growth Sector Committee

Sergio Pereira da Silva, Vice Chairman of EuroCham Vietnam Green Growth Sector Committee, serves as the Chairman of CCIPV – Chamber of Commerce and Industry Portugal. Additionally, he is the Managing Partner at Saraiva + Associados Architecture and Design.

Sergio specializes in BA and leadership, bringing his expertise to the realms of strategy and governance. In his role as Vice Chairman, he actively contributes to the development of the Green Growth sector in Vietnam, showcasing his commitment to sustainable business practices and international commerce.

Speakers

Tom Tabouring, Senior Commercial Manager at ITL Logistics

Tom Tabouring, Senior Commercial Manager at ITL (In Do Trans Logistics Corporation), specializes in providing comprehensive storage and distribution solutions to manufacturing, distribution, and logistics companies in Vietnam. Leveraging ITL’s general, bonded, CFS, and cold storage warehouses, Tom ensures clients receive tailored services that meet their unique needs.

With a focus on efficient customs and trucking solutions, Tom facilitates the seamless clearance and timely delivery of goods. Through ITL’s strategic locations near major ports and key industrial parks, clients can store their goods conveniently. Tom’s commitment to cost-effective and time-saving solutions is evident in ITL’s in-house customs services, contributing to a streamlined and reliable supply chain for clients.

Dylan Jenkins, Principal Consultant, ERM

Dylan Jenkins is a Principal Consultant, with ERM Vietnam responsible for managing environmental, social and health consulting projects. He has a diverse background in all stages of environmental assessments, including Regulatory EIAs and international ESIAs following the Equator Principles and IFC/WB Sustainability Framework international standards for a diverse range of large scale capital projects across SE Asia including agribusiness (aquaculture and sugar farming / processing), water and wastewater infrastructure, Thermal Power, onshore and offshore O&G, LNG, LPG and telecommunications infrastructure.

Topic: Innovation in Healthcare

People are the cornerstone of our society. Vietnam, with its demographic shifts and societal changes, experiences pressure on its health systems and demands new directions in the delivery of healthcare.

These new directions are pushing companies, hospitals and research institutes to provide innovative solutions for the patients and ensure the demands of the population are met.

This break-out session will look into new developments regarding pharmaceutical and vaccine requirements, the local research and development that this has enabled, and how the hospitals are collaborating with these research institutes.

Agenda:

09.00 – 09.20: Presentation: “Innovation saves lives” By Noel Yeo, CEO of Hanh Phuc Hospital

09.20 – 09.40: Presentation by Professor Sophie Yacoub Head of the Dengue Research Group and Associate OUCRU-Vietnam

09.40 – 10.10: Presentation: “Adult Immunization – One of Innovative Solution” by Dr. Elena DeAngelis, Country Medical Affairs Director of GSK

10.10 – 10.30: Presentation: “Sustainable and Innovative Medical Cold Chain” by Luc Provost, CEO of B-medical systems

10.30 – 10.45 Coffee Break

10.45 – 11.30: Discussion Panel

Break-out room info:

  • Location: Blue Room, 1st floor, Pullman Saigon Center, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
  • Time: 09.00 – 11.30
  • Date: 1 December 2023

Evelyne Kestelyn, Secretary-General
BeLuxCham

Evelyne Kestelyn, Secretary-General of BeLuxCham and Head of the Clinical Trials Unit at OUCRU, is a seasoned public health specialist with over 15 years of experience in implementing and overseeing research programs in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs).

Her expertise spans diverse areas, including contraceptive technologies, HIV prevention, sexually transmitted infections, and clinical trials design and implementation. Evelyne excels in training and coordinating multi-disciplinary, multinational teams, showcasing her commitment to advancing public health initiatives and research in LMICs.

Yeo Sheng Ming Noel

Noel Yeo Sheng Ming is a healthcare business leader with nearly two decades of experience. In roles spanning basic to complex healthcare, he’s known for leading large healthcare networks and strategic projects, showcasing proactive and patient leadership. During the recent pandemic, he led IHH Healthcare Singapore’s COVID-19 Coordination Center, earning national recognition for his contributions. With a background in crisis management and business transformation, Noel aims to contribute to Southeast Asia’s healthcare sector through various projects.

Noel holds an MBA, a Directorship Certificate, and a Postgraduate Certificate in Medical Law and Ethics. He actively volunteers for non-profit organizations, including the Central Singapore Community Development Council, the Singapore Cancer Society, and the Singapore Medical Association. Additionally, he is a Certified Information Privacy Professional/Asia by the International Association of Privacy Professionals.

Luc Provost

Luc Provost, the CEO of B Medical Systems and Vice-President at Azenta Life Sciences, is a visionary leader with over 20 years of executive management experience. Committed to innovation and customer-centricity, he has played a pivotal role in B Medical Systems’ success for over 24 years. Since the acquisition by Azenta Life Sciences in October 2022, he has also served as Vice President.

Passionate about saving lives through medical solutions in remote areas, Luc Provost is a renowned speaker and thought leader in medical refrigeration. His impact is evident in B Medical Systems’ revenue growth, global expansions, and the launch of over 50 new products, some setting new WHO PQS standards. His leadership has not only shaped B Medical Systems but has also fostered meaningful collaborations with central governments, health ministries, and international organizations worldwide.

Sophie Yacoub

Dr. Sophie Yacoub, Associate Professor, is the leader of a large-scale research program on dengue fever. She focuses on studying the disease’s mechanisms, precise clinical medical trials, and the use of innovative technologies such as wearable devices, physiological monitoring, and artificial intelligence for medical imaging and clinical decision support systems.

Moreover, she is a Wellcome Clinical Career Development Fellow and a specialist in Infectious Diseases and Internal Medicine. She also holds an honorary advisory position at the London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust in the UK. Under her leadership, the dengue fever research team is exploring the impact of climate change in Southeast Asia through the integration of new digital technologies, remote patient monitoring, and artificial intelligence. The team’s overall goal is to improve clinical outcomes for dengue fever in Vietnam and worldwide.

With her extensive experience and knowledge in the field of health, Sophie Yacoub is the perfect speaker to share innovative ideas and solutions aligned with ESG goals for this sector.

Topic: Corporate Governance

Corporate Governance serves as the framework that outlines the rules, processes, and practices by which a company is directed and controlled. It encompasses the relationships between various stakeholders, including shareholders, management, employees, customers, suppliers, and the community at large. By establishing transparent and accountable decision-making structures, Corporate Governance ensures that organizations operate in an ethical and responsible manner.

The importance of governance cannot be overstated, as it sets the stage for the effective integration of ESG principles into an organization’s operations. ESG refers to the three key factors that measure the sustainability and societal impact of a company’s practices. Environmental factors consider a company’s impact on the environment, such as its carbon footprint and resource consumption. Social factors encompass the company’s relationships with employees, customers, and the broader community. Governance, the focus of our session, addresses the internal systems and processes that guide decision-making and ensure accountability.

By emphasizing the governance aspect, organizations can lay a solid foundation for the successful implementation of ESG practices. Robust governance structures promote transparency, accountability, and ethical behavior, which are essential for addressing environmental and social challenges. Effective governance mechanisms enable organizations to identify and manage risks, align their strategies with long-term sustainability goals, and foster trust among stakeholders.

Furthermore, a strong governance framework enhances the organization’s reputation, attracts investors who prioritize sustainable practices, and mitigates potential legal and reputational risks. It also helps organizations adapt to evolving regulatory requirements and changing stakeholder expectations, ensuring their long-term viability and resilience.

This break-out session will focus on how companies are applying Corporate Governance throughout their organization and will bring clear examples that have shown success in their organizations.

09.00 – 09.20: Presentation: “Integration of ESG into Corporate Strategy – The Role of Board” By Dr. Trung Dinh Scientific Director Solvay Brussels School in Vietnam

09.20 – 09.40: Presentation: “Unlocking Corporate Success: The Power of Effective Governance” by Ashish Chaturvedi – Director Forensic Advisory of Grant Thornton

09.40 – 10.10: Presentation: “Share for Sustainability” by Gricha Safarian, CEO of Puratos Grand-Place Vietnam

10.10 – 10.30: Presentation: “Purpose is the answer to good Governance” by Outi Gruener, Market Development and Sustainability Advisor at The Purpose Business

10.30 – 10.45 Coffee Break

10.45 – 11.30: Discussion Panel

  • Location: Black Room, 1st floor, Pullman Saigon Center, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
  • Time: 09.00 – 11.30
  • Date: 1 December 2023

Moderator

Javier Mendez Repiso, Chairman of Spanish Chamber of Commerce & Board Member of EuroCham

Javier Mendez Repiso, Deputy CEO & Project Director of PBAT at An Phat Holding, boasts 23 years of experience in Engineering and Construction in the Energy and Oil & Gas Industry. His diverse roles, spanning Project, Operations, Commercial, and Management, showcase his expertise across various entities, countries, and construction sites.

Skilled in management, operations, projects, and contract negotiation, Javier excels in P&L management and has a proven track record in commercial management, business development, and ensuring profitability. With a technical background in LNG and Energy, he is adept at executing large-scale projects, providing valuable contributions to major clients worldwide.

Dr. Trung Dinh, Scientific Director & Lecturer at Solvay Brussels School Vietnam

Dr. Trung Dinh is a distinguished professional with over 30 years of experience in Corporate and Business Strategy, Corporate Governance, and Restructuring. Currently, he serves as the Scientific Director and Lecturer at Solvay Brussels School Vietnam. Dr. Dinh’s extensive career includes roles such as Portfolio Manager at UBS AG, Strategy Advisor at Holcim Group Support Ltd., and CEO of PAT Industrial Zone. He is also the Co-Founder of TYC Packaging Co., Ltd.

In the academic realm, Dr. Dinh is a Lecturer for Corporate Governance at Solvay Brussels School and Design Thinking at RMIT. He holds a Ph.D. in Economics from the University of St. Gallen, Switzerland, and is the Head of Research at the Vietnam Institute of Directors (VIOD). Additionally, he has authored notable works such as “Stratagemic Arts of Negotiation” and “Thirty-six Stratagems,” showcasing his expertise in strategy and negotiation.

Gricha Safarian, CEO of Puratos Grand-Place Vietnam

Gricha Safarian, CEO of Puratos Grand-Place Vietnam and founder of The Cocoa Project, is a Belgian chocolate enthusiast with over 35 years in the cocoa industry. In 1985, he established the Grand-Place chocolate brand, and a spontaneous visit to Vietnam in the early 1990s led to his deep admiration for the creative and hardworking people of the region.

As the Honorary Consulate of Belgium in Ho Chi Minh City, Gricha fosters strong diplomatic ties. Renowned as the “Father of Cacao-Trace,” he emphasizes sustainability in cocoa supply chains. Gricha is also a sought-after guest speaker at esteemed institutions like Stanford and RMIT University. His commitment to chocolate and sustainable practices makes him a notable figure in the industry.

Outi Gruener, Market Development and Sustainability Advisor at The Purpose Business

Outi, Head of Market Development and Sustainability Advisor at The Purpose Business (TPB), is a sustainability expert dedicated to guiding organizations in Southeast Asia. With 14 years of experience, she focuses on helping companies articulate, activate, and embed purpose and sustainability into their business strategies.

At TPB, Outi facilitates transformative solutions that align with social, economic, and environmental goals. Originally from Finland, she identifies as a global native, having lived and worked in Vietnam, Thailand, and the Philippines before settling in Singapore with her husband and two children. Outi’s commitment lies in guiding companies to evolve as a force for good, making her a trusted partner for Asia-based businesses committed to responsible growth.

Ashish Chaturvedi, Director – Forensic Advisory of Grant Thornton

Ashish Chaturvedi, Director of Forensic Advisory at Grant Thornton, boasts nearly two decades of expertise in Ethics, Compliance, Governance, Investigations, Risk, Accounting, and Auditing. He serves multinational clients across Southeast Asia and is currently leading Forensic Advisory Services at Grant Thornton, Thailand.

Ashish was previously a Director at EY’s Forensic & Integrity Services in Bangkok, contributing significantly to strengthening EY’s forensic practice in the region from October 2019 to October 2022.

Specializing in both responsive and proactive services, including fraud investigations and risk assessments, Ashish has been at the forefront of the Ethics and Compliance agenda since January 2011. His earlier experience includes four years in the Accounts & Finance function at KPMG.