Su Cheng Harris-Simpson on leading with purpose

To mark International Women’s Day on March 8, throughout March, FOCUS is spotlighting female business leaders in the UK and China. Here, Robynne Tindall speaks to Su Cheng Harris-Simpson, Founder and Chair of the Women Empowerment Council

Since moving to China in 1997, Su Cheng has been actively involved in the Beijing business community. She is currently serving on the Board of AmCham-China and is the Founding Co-Chair of the AmCham-China Women’s Professional Committee. Before becoming an entrepreneur, she was engaged in the corporate arena and held management positions at The Boeing Company, United Technologies Corporation, and The Capital Club in Beijing.

Su Cheng has become a sought-after thought leader on the topic of diversity, equity and inclusion in business. Through sharing her professional journey, she hopes to motivate a healthy pipeline of competent and confident women professionals and provide them access to professional development and networking opportunities.

Here, she talks to FOCUS about founding the Women Empowerment Council and why she’d love to sit down for dinner with Oprah Winfrey.

What inspired you to get into your current industry?

The Women Empowerment Council is truly the culmination of all my learning, experience, and desire to create change over my career. Starting from my early experiences in the corporate world, I witnessed firsthand the challenges and barriers faced by women in the workplace, which compelled me to make a difference. My entrepreneurial drive and passion to work towards creating more equitable environments led me to found my consulting company, SCHSAsia, and later, the Women Empowerment Council. My mission is all about empowering individuals, especially women and girls, to unleash their full potential.

What resources have helped you to achieve more and get further in your industry?

Networking and community building have played pivotal roles in my career development. Over the years, I’ve actively participated in various organisations, which have served as invaluable platforms for connecting with like-minded professionals, exchanging ideas, and collaborating on initiatives aimed at advancing gender equality and business success. Furthermore, prioritising continuous learning and staying abreast of industry trends has been essential for driving progress and remaining relevant in an ever-evolving landscape.

What do you think needs to be done to encourage more women to enter leadership roles?

To encourage more women to pursue leadership roles, we must address systemic barriers and biases while fostering a culture of inclusivity and support. Despite women accounting for 41% of the workforce, they only hold 32% of senior leadership positions, according to LinkedIn. As women approach gender parity in the workforce, it’s imperative that leadership reflects this trend. Providing mentorship programs, leadership development opportunities, and creating flexible work environments are key strategies to attract and retain diverse talent. Additionally, showcasing successful female role models and highlighting the economic benefits of gender diversity can inspire more women to pursue leadership ambitions in any field.

The theme of International Women’s Day 2024 is #InspireInclusion. What does that theme mean to you? How do you inspire inclusivity in the workplace?

The theme resonates deeply with me as it embodies the concept of creating environments where every individual feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives. In the workplace, I am dedicated to inspiring inclusivity by championing diversity initiatives, fostering open dialogues, and leading by example. Alongside my business partner, Diane Ho, an executive coach, I am certified as a life and career coach. At WEC, we also offer a Group Coaching Program, aimed at fostering professional development. However, my dedication to mentorship extends beyond this program. I am passionate about guiding both our team members and aspiring young professional women, aiding them in realising their full potential. I believe empowerment and equality are continuous endeavours, attainable only through persistent effort.

What progress have you seen on gender equality during your life and work?

Over the years, I’ve witnessed strides towards gender equality. While not equal, we have seen an increase in female representation in leadership positions. More women in the Asia-Pacific region hold managerial positions today than they did two decades ago, with the percentage rising from 18% to 28%, according to UN Women Asia Pacific. There’s also a greater awareness of gender biases and a growing commitment from organisations to prioritise diversity and inclusion. Part of this change is driven by companies understanding that diversity is good for their bottom line. According to one McKinsey report, companies in the top quartile of gender diversity are 25% more likely to financially outperform their counterparts.

That said, challenges do remain. From the gender pay gap to underrepresentation – particularly in STEM fields – there is still more work to be done.

Do you feel optimistic about the future prospects for greater gender equality in the workplace?

Absolutely. Despite the challenges, I’m optimistic that we will continue to see greater gender equality in the workplace. With today’s heightened awareness, advocacy, and collective action, we can accelerate progress and make gender inclusivity the rule, not the exception.

What traits do you think make a great leader, female or otherwise?

Great leaders, regardless of gender, should possess a growth mindset, which means embracing challenges, persisting in the face of setbacks, and seeing failures as opportunities for growth and learning. In addition to possessing the traits of empathy, integrity, resilience, and vision, it is crucial that a leader is willing to learn, grow, and adapt with their team. I have found that leading by example is the best way to inspire and empower others.

How important is it to have a role model or mentor? Who is your role model?

Having a role model or mentor is paramount for personal and professional growth. A mentor provides invaluable guidance, support, and insights drawn from their own experiences. For me, my mother serves as my ultimate role model. She embodies resilience, tenacity, hard work and persistence. So many of the lessons I’ve learned in this regard have been imparted by her. As an immigrant arriving in the US without language skills and only a third-grade education, she succeeded and provided for her family through her hard work and determination. Despite the obstacles she faced, she tirelessly pursued her goals.

If you could have dinner with any inspirational woman, past or present, who would it be and why?

I think it would be Oprah Winfrey. Her journey, particularly her experiences with adversity during her youth, deeply resonates with me. Despite facing significant challenges, she has achieved so much in her career and had such a profound impact on so many lives. She has a unique ability to leverage her talents and authenticity to connect with others, all while maintaining a genuine desire to uplift and support those around her. As a self-made woman of colour who has become such a cultural icon, Oprah embodies the potential for greatness within all of us.

If you could sum up your best bit of business advice in one sentence, what would it be?

Embrace authenticity, lead with purpose, and never underestimate the power of collaboration and inclusivity in driving meaningful and sustainable business success.