Category Archives:

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.

Topic: Industry 4.0

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The fourth industrial revolution or ‘Industry 4.0’ consists of the automation and digitization of industry and all business-related processes. It was first introduced by the German government in 2013 and focuses on the concept of smart factory and cyber-physical systems which integrates advanced technologies such as automation, data exchange in manufacturing technology, 3D printing, cloud computing, Internet of Things (IoT), and goods and people.

Vietnam has introduced its strategy for ‘Industry 4.0’ in 2021, to which its strategic objectives are to fundamentally master and widely apply advanced technologies in different social and economic domains, gradually develop modern technologies in support of renewing Vietnam’s growth model and promoting economic restructuring in line with the implementation of strategic breakthroughs and national modernization, and promote development of the digital economy.

This break-out session will focus on how new technologies are implemented in a traditional manufacturing environment and how these technologies are contributing to ESG goals.

Agenda:

01.00 – 01.20: Presentation by Kim Francois, Executive Director and Board Member of BeLuxCham Vietnam

01.20 – 01.40: Presentation by Van Aelst & Nguyen & Partners – Steve Van Aelst – Director Architecture

01.40 – 02.10: Presentation “Digital ESG – New approach to the sustainable growth of enterprises” by Nguyen The Phuong, Digital Transformation Consulting Director at FPT Digital

02.10 – 02.30: Presentation: “How EV-Charging as part of Industry 4.0 accelerates your ESG journey” by Stefan Kaufmann, Founder of Eboost

02.30 – 02.45 Coffee Break

02.45 – 03.30: Discussion Panel

Break-out room info

  • Location: Blue Room, 1st Floor, Pullman Saigon Center
  • Time: 13:00 – 15:30
  • Date: Thursday, November 30, 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

Nguyen The Phuong, Digital Transformation Consulting Director at FPT Digital

Mr. Phuong is currently the Digital Transformation Consulting Director at FPT Digital. He graduated with an excellent Master’s degree in project management from the top 3 best universities in Australia. He is equipped with a solid knowledge of socio-economics, business administration (MBA), and more than 17 years of practical project management experience in many different disciplines, from civil engineering construction, automobiles, and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) to digital transformation, and green transformation.

Steve Van Aelst, Director of Architecture at Van Aelst & Nguyen & Partners

Steve Van Aelst is the Co-Founder and Director of Architecture at Van Aelst I Nguyen & Partners, an Architecture and Façade Design Company with over 20 years of international design experience. Educated in Belgium, and Europe, Steve has traversed diverse global landscapes, contributing his expertise to projects in Europe, UAE, China, and Vietnam.

Specializing in high-profile Mixed-use and Hospitality projects, Steve and his team at Van Aelst I Nguyen & Partners thrive on embracing complexity and challenges. Their approach involves providing simple, elegant design solutions driven by a clear and strong vision.

With a commitment to excellence, Steve brings a wealth of world-class experience to each project. His portfolio extends across continents, including Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Australia, and the United States. Steve’s dedication lies in creating value and delivering outstanding design solutions to international standards.

Stefan Kaufmann, Founder of Eboost

Stefan Kaufmann is the founder and current CEO of EBOOST, a leading brand developing and operating smart charging solution services for electric vehicles in Vietnam. His vision is empowering people to adopt the electric transport means for their daily mobility needs, and thus to convert the urban environment into a healthier and more sustainable place to live, work and relax.

Prior of founding EBOOST, Stefan Kaufmann was working in leading strategic & commercial roles mainly in the construction & building materials industry with exposure across the globe.

Stefan Kaufmann is a Swiss National, holds a Master’s degree in Management, Technology and Economics from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich and a Bachelor’s degree in Microengineering specialized in Robotics form the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne.

Topic: Circular Economy

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Welcome to an in-depth exploration of the correlation between Circular Economy and the overarching theme of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, with a particular emphasis on its implications within the dynamic landscape of Vietnam. In a global milieu increasingly attuned to sustainability imperatives, the concept of Circular Economy emerges as a noteworthy departure from conventional paradigms, heralding a shift towards responsible business practices.

This session dissects the intricate interplay between Circular Economy and ESG, scrutinizing how this transformative paradigm aligns with the distinctive economic and cultural milieu of Vietnam. From the nuanced navigation of challenges to the strategic leveraging of opportunities, the aim is to elucidate the potential of the Circular Economy framework as a linchpin in fostering sustainable development within the Vietnamese business ecosystem.

This exploration beckons an engagement with the intersectionality of Circular Economy and ESG principles, envisioning a future where environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and judicious governance converge to articulate a blueprint for enduring success in Vietnam and the global arena. This discourse transcends mere contemplation; it constitutes an examination of actionable insights poised to shape a sustainable and prosperous trajectory for businesses and communities at large.

Agenda:

09.00 – 09.20: Presentation “Sustainable Packaging: A Business Case for Environmental and Economic Benefits” by Jonathan Sourintha, Associate MP, HRK Group Vietnam

09.20 – 09.40: Presentation by Kim Lê, Founder of CL2B

09.40 – 10.10 Coffee Break

10.10 – 10.50: Study study Entobel – Heiniken – De Heus

11.50 – 11.30: Discussion Panel / Q&A

By

  • Gaetan Crielaard, Co-founder and Co-CEO of Entobel
  • Kiet Le Quang – Corporate Affairs Director of Heineken
  • Lea Trang, Sustainability Specialist of De Heus

Break-out room info

  • Location: Red Room, 2nd Floor, Pullman Saigon Center
  • Time: 09.00 – 11.30 AM
  • Date: Thursday, November 30, 2023

Moderator

Christina Ameln, Advisor & Project Management at Ameln & CO.

Christina Ameln is a Sustainability Strategist and Advisor at Ameln & CO., actively engaged with AVPN and Sustainable Vietnam. With a deep belief in the power of connections, Christina has spent years advising and project-managing initiatives in CSR, Sustainability, ESG, and Impact for corporates, multilateral organizations, and non-profits.

Her diverse experience spans continents and sectors, making her a valuable asset. Christina has worked with leading international companies to enhance their commitment to CSR and Sustainability, built NGOs through relationship management, and, as a consultant, excelled in advising, communicating, project managing, and creating impactful change across various projects. Her holistic approach ensures strong foundations and lasting positive impact.

Speakers:

Jonathan Sourintha

Jonathan Sourintha, a veteran with over 15 years in Vietnam, is the driving force behind HRK Group, a leading sustainable packaging company. Over the past four years, he has spearheaded the company’s commitment to combating plastic pollution. HRK Group, under Jonathan’s leadership, offers safe and environmentally friendly alternatives to harmful packaging, with products designed to be easily digested by nature, leaving no pollution behind.

Jonathan Sourintha’s visionary leadership and dedication to sustainability position him as a notable figure in the mission for a more environmentally conscious future.

Gaetan Crielaard, Co-founder and Co-CEO of Entobel

Gaetan Crielaard, co-founder and co-CEO of Entobel, spearheads the company’s global leadership in sustainable insect-based ingredients. Founded in 2013 with Alexandre de Caters, Entobel, based in Singapore and active in Vietnam, is a pioneer in the field.

Gaetan, a Solvay Business School graduate, and his partner launched Entobel in Vietnam in 2013. In September 2023, they inaugurated the world’s most CAPEX-efficient insect production facility in Vung Tau, Vietnam. This cutting-edge facility, with 50 levels of vertical rearing and full automation, meets the rising global demand for sustainable insect-based ingredients, producing an estimated 10,000 MT annually.

Entobel’s first commercial plant in Dong Nai, Vietnam, operational since 2019, also serves as the company’s dedicated R&D center. Under Gaetan Crielaard’s leadership, Entobel remains at the forefront of innovation in sustainable solutions for animal feed and plant nutrition globally.