Author Archive: admin

Topic: GHG Emission Reduction

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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

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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

Moderator

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.

Speakers

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

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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.

Agenda:

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

Break-out room info:

  • 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.

Speakers

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.

Topic: Human Capital Management

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To implement ESG in your company, a well-balanced sustainability team is a prerequisite for meaningful engagement with peers and colleagues. It should include knowledgeable professionals from environment, health and safety, operations, marketing, human resource, procurement and other key business units. The key is to involve people across the range of functions.

ESG & Sustainability Reporting Guidance (2022)

This break-out session will focus on Labor Management and evelopment with a specific focus on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) measures for the social aspect of the Human Resources (HR) lifecycle. In this session, we will explore practical and immediate strategies to integrate ESG principles into labor management and development practices, with a particular emphasis on the social dimension.

ESG has emerged as a crucial framework for organizations to ensure sustainable and responsible business practices. While the environmental and governance aspects of ESG have received significant attention, the social dimension is equally important. It encompasses the well-being, diversity, inclusion, and fair treatment of employees throughout their HR lifecycle.

This workshop aims to provide you with direct and practical measures to enhance the social part of the HR lifecycle, aligning it with ESG principles. We will explore strategies for attracting and recruiting diverse talent, fostering an inclusive work environment, promoting employee well-being and work-life balance, and ensuring fair and equitable compensation and benefits.

By integrating ESG principles into labor management and development practices, organizations can create a positive impact on their employees, stakeholders, and society as a whole. This workshop will focus on immediate and practical steps that organizations can take to enhance the social aspect of their HR lifecycle, fostering a culture of inclusivity, fairness, and employee well-being.

During this break-out session, Miss Christa Stienen will draw upon her extensive experience to demonstrate the critical role of HR in the realm of ESG. She will offer direct, immediate, and practical measures for integrating the social aspect within the HR lifecycle. As suggested by the “ESG & Sustainability Reporting Guidance (2022),” creating a sustainability team is vital for meaningful engagement, and Christa’s insights will help you navigate this complex landscape.

The break-out room on Human Management Resources (HR) is designed for professionals and individuals who are interested in understanding the critical role of HR in driving positive social impact and sustainability within organizations. This session will provide valuable insights and practical measures for integrating the social aspect within the HR lifecycle.

Break-out room info:

  • Location: 2nd Floor, Yellow Room, Pullman Saigon Centre Hotel, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
  • Time: 09.00 AM – 11.00 AM
  • Date: December 1, 2023

Moderator

Bart Verheyen, Chairman of BeLuxCham & Commercial Director of Medicare

Bart Verheyen, based in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, is a seasoned Procurement expert with over 20 years of experience. His expertise spans various food and non-food categories, and he excels in defining and implementing customer-oriented assortments.

Bart’s extensive background includes working in Belgium for 4 years, China, and Vietnam for 16 years. He has made significant contributions to retail, wholesale, and multinational companies, enhancing their commercial capabilities and capacities.

Formerly a board member with METRO Cash & Carry, where he strategically increased sales and reduced costs across diverse categories, Bart currently serves as a board member of MEDICARE Vietnam, the leading Beauty & Health store chain in Vietnam.

His specialties include assortment management, vendor management, sourcing strategies, negotiations, and purchasing. Bart’s wealth of experience and strategic acumen make him a valuable asset in the field of procurement.

Speakers

Christa Stienen, CHRO/CPO & Business Woman

Christa Stienen is a prominent businesswoman, currently serving as Chief People Officer and member of the International Executive Board at Hellmann Worldwide Logistics SE & Co. KG. With a strong focus on human resources and strategic leadership, she plays a crucial role in shaping the company’s direction.

In addition to her role at Hellmann, Christa is Vice President at “Denkfabrik Zukunft der Gastwelt,” Germany’s leading think tank for tourism, hospitality, and food service industries.

Her previous position includes Chief Human Resources Officer and Member of the Management Board at DB Schenker Cluster DE/CH in Frankfurt/Main. Christa Stienen is recognized for her impactful contributions to the logistics industry and her commitment to shaping the future of key sectors.

Topic: Labor Management & Development

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This session will explore the importance of effective labor management and development strategies, their impact on employee engagement and productivity, and the challenges and opportunities they present.

Labor management and development encompass a range of practices and strategies aimed at optimizing the utilization of human resources within an organization. It involves attracting, recruiting, training, and retaining talented individuals, as well as creating an environment that fosters their growth, engagement, and well-being.

In today’s dynamic and competitive business landscape, organizations recognize that their employees are their most valuable asset. Effective labor management and development strategies not only ensure the right people are in the right roles but also empower them to reach their full potential. By investing in their development, organizations can enhance employee engagement, productivity, and loyalty, leading to improved business outcomes.

However, labor management and development are not without their challenges. Organizations must navigate evolving labor laws and regulations, address workforce diversity and inclusion, and adapt to changing employee expectations. Additionally, technological advancements and automation present both opportunities and challenges in terms of workforce planning and skill development.

During this panel discussion, we have gathered experts, HR professionals, and industry leaders who will share their insights, experiences, and strategies for effective labor management and development. We will explore topics such as talent acquisition, performance management, training and development, employee engagement, and the role of technology in optimizing labor management.

Agenda

01.00 – 01.20: Presentation by Mimi Vu, Partner of Raise Partner

01.20 – 01.40: Presentation: “Vietnamese Sentiments and Impacts on Labour Management” by Ngan Ly, Chief Client Officer at IPSOS

01.40 – 02.10: Presentation: “Dishing out Development: The Secret Sauce of 4P’s Role Model Leadership” By Joe Black, Culture and Operations Excellence Director Pizza 4P’s

02.10 – 02.40: Coffee Break

02.40 – 03.30: Discussion Panel

Break-out room info

  • Location: Black Room, 1st floor, Pullman Saigon Center, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
  • Time: 01.00 – 03.30 PM
  • Date: 30 November 2023

Moderator

Phan Anh Tu, Country HR Manager of Pierre Fabre Laboratories

Anh Tu is a highly motivated people partner with over 10 years of experience in the field of human resources.

His primary focus is on cultivating a positive work culture and driving organizational growth through strategic people planning.

In his role as Country HR Manager at Pierre Fabre, he has effectively collaborated with senior executives and line managers to design and execute transformative people initiatives that align with the evolving work environment

Speakers

Joe Black, Culture and Operations Excellence Director
Pizza 4P’s

Joe Black currently holds the position of Culture and Operations Excellence Director at Pizza 4Ps Vietnam. He had a passion for building businesses from the first one he started at the age of 12. His first passion was operations and the puzzle of scaling a business. Through his endeavors and working with many entrepreneurs, he quickly found everything works better if people love what they do. The company does better AND people live better lives. He now lives his passion every day which is to inspire people into purpose-driven action.

Ngan Ly, Chief Client Officer at IPSOS

Ngan has over 25 years of leading teams in marketing and research across Asia Pacific and Europe. During her term as Managing Director for Ipsos Vietnam from 2018 to 2022, her team achieved record-high employee engagement and delivered outstanding financial results. She currently holds the position of Chief Client Officer at Ipsos Vietnam.  

Mimi Vu, Partner of Raise Partner

Mimi Vu is Partner at Raise Partners, an ESG consulting practice that helps private sector and governments work in partnership to achieve their highest social and environmental impact. She is also one of the leading experts on Vietnamese human trafficking and modern slavery, and has 20 years of experience in international development in areas such as gender equality, economic empowerment, and ethical supply chains. Through Raise Partners, Mimi co-organizes the annual Vietnam ESG Investor Conference, the country’s first conference dedicated to convening like-minded investors, businesses, policymakers, and experts to identify opportunities for investment. Mimi has undergraduate degrees in English Literature and French from the University of Michigan, and a MPA in International Policy from New York University. Mimi is a native of Flint, Michigan, USA and has been based in Vietnam since 2006.