As HKUST celebrates its 35th Anniversary, we look back at the lasting impact of its inaugural cohort. Among them, Frankie Leung (1994 BBA Economics) exemplifies the power of embracing the unknown and forging a unique path. His journey from a student at a young university to a distinguished consulting leader is a story of vision, resilience, and meaningful impact. 

Thirty-five years ago, Frankie boldly joined the University while it was still under construction, choosing it over more established universities. This leap of faith was driven by the vision of its founding faculty—world-class scholars aiming to build a leading research university. The learning environment offered remarkable flexibility, supported by personal mentorship and a scholarship. "Most of all, I saw a rare opportunity to be among the very first students and help shape the history of a cutting-edge university with tremendous potential," Frankie shared.   

This trailblazing experience remarkably built his self-reliance and confidence. His early creative contributions embodied the pioneering spirit of those founding years—notably as the Founding Executive Committee member of the Business Students’ Union (BSU), where he created the organization’s logo that remains in use today. These pursuits laid the foundation for charting his own course—through banking and consulting, and later a mid-career Master in Design Studies at Harvard University Graduate School of Design. HKUST, he reflects, taught him that "an uncharted path is not a challenge, but an invitation to create."
 

His hall-mates initiated water sports activities long before the establishment of the Water Sports Center.

The view from Hall 1 (now known as Lee Yin Yee Hall), witnessing the construction of the HKUST campus.

His early days at the University were marked by the co-founding of the BSU. Recognizing the lack of student organizations, Frankie and his peers took it upon themselves to build a representative body to support their fellow business students. They poured immense effort into establishing the first school union in the University from the ground up—an experience that profoundly shaped his leadership philosophy. 

"Building something from nothing requires both a clear vision and relentless execution," he noted. "Leadership is not about having all the answers, but about creating an environment where everyone can contribute their best." This collaborative spirit, strengthened by cherished hall life and close cohort bonds, remains a cornerstone of his leadership today. 

Professor Yuk-Shee Chan, the late Founding Dean, is a recurring and cherished figure in Frankie’s reflections. Professor Chan was instrumental in persuading him to join HKUST, supporting the formation of BSU, and crucially, writing his Wharton MBA recommendation. "Yuk-Shee not only guided me in choosing my academic path, but has also been a lifelong role model," he reminisced. Inspired by Professor Chan’s generosity and social responsibility, Frankie has strived to make a greater impact on society throughout his life.
 

The first BSU banner, produced overnight at Hall 1 (now known as Lee Yin Yee Hall).

The first BSU Executive Committee Inauguration Ceremony in 1992.

Frankie’s journey began at the University with a BBA in Economics, which provided a strong academic foundation and instilled intellectual curiosity and cross-disciplinary confidence. After graduating, he embarked on his career as a management trainee at Citibank before pursuing his MBA at Wharton, where he discovered his passion for consulting. This foundation propelled him to advance rapidly in his career, becoming a Partner and Managing Director at Boston Consulting Group in his mid-thirties—the first elected partner with a Hong Kong undergraduate degree. 

HKUST also gave him the courage to follow his own path. Inspired by his wife’s career transition from investment to arts education, he pursued his childhood passion for architecture through a full-time Master in Design Studies at Harvard in his mid-forties. The experience further honed his ability to blend rigorous analytics with elegant, people-centric solutions. 

Today, as Partner at Bain & Company, Frankie leverages his multidisciplinary background to deliver transformative solutions for complex business challenges. He emphasizes the importance of deeply understanding clients’ challenges, akin to an architect designing spaces that enhance human experiences.
 

Frankie is now a Partner at Bain & Company, advising top executives on strategy, organization, and business transformation topics.

The Computer Barn in 1991, featuring cutting-edge facilities.

Frankie’s commitment to his Alma Mater is deeply rooted in a desire to “plant seeds on good soil” and create opportunities for future generations. Since 2009, he has been making donations to support the holistic development of students, empowering them to discover their potential and use it for the betterment of society. His contributions aim to foster a supportive ecosystem where talent thrives and students have the courage to “test their dreams” and tackle the world’s challenges. He currently serves as a member of the Career Development Advisory Board of the School of Humanities and Social Science, where he shares his extensive industry experience to help guide and inspire students in their career journeys. 

To current and future graduates, he offers this advice: cultivate intellectual curiosity, commit to lifelong learning across disciplines, and embrace a pioneering mindset. "Don’t wait for a roadmap to be handed to you," he urges. "The absence of guidance is an opportunity to create your own path." Above all, "never stop asking ‘why’." 

Frankie's journey highlights the transformative power of an HKUST education—one that nurtures innovation, resilience, and the drive to make a meaningful difference. As the University continues its 35-year legacy, he stands as an inspiring example of the extraordinary achievements that bloom when one dares to chart the uncharted.
 

Frankie at the Yuk-Shee Chan Lounge Opening and Appreciation Reception.

He is a member of the Career Development Advisory Board of the School of Humanities and Social Science.