Several reports suggest that hybrid work culture is the prevailing work arrangement in Hong Kong for those that have determined their jobs can be performed remotely. A PwC survey states that 76 percent of employees in Hong Kong are now indulged in a hybrid working model, significantly higher than APAC (59 percent) and global (54 percent) scenarios. It’s not a hard guess that Hong Kong Inc bringing employees back into the office is unlikely, because it could be counterproductive in terms of significant improvement in project performance, considering the negative impact the move can have on employee morale and retention.

However, it goes without saying that a permanent hybrid scenario adds another challenge to the plate of Chief Operating Officers (COO) in the country. Adapting operations to a work-from-home model presents considerable challenges. Additionally, maintaining customer experience amidst a rapidly evolving technology landscape and escalating cyber threats further complicates the role of COOs. While the pandemic spurred significant growth in the internet, cloud, and IT sectors, it also provided cyber attackers with new opportunities, leading to disastrous consequences.

The IDC predicts that global security spending will grow from $219 billion this year to almost $300 billion in 2026. It is obvious that, no matter how big or small your business is, you always face the threat of cyberattacks. COOs need proactive cybersecurity experts to create a more secure environment and ensure intact operations by hiring cybersecurity experts. This issue of CEO Insights Asia is dedicated to some of the best COOs in Hong Kong. Do let us know your thoughts.

Do let us know your thoughts.