Cover Lenovo's Fan Ho on fostering teamwork and achieving collective success

The tech executive opens up on her experiences in the industry and what she had learnt on the way to the top

The world of technology is constantly evolving and while it can be challenging for some to keep up with the pace in the industry, others like Fan Ho thrive in it. As executive director and general manager of Lenovo’s Asia Pacific Solutions and Services Group, Ho is a driving force behind reshaping Lenovo’s identity in a digital-first era.

Ho’s career trajectory is nothing short of inspiring. She began her professional career at McKinsey & Company where she developed a keen understanding of strategic management. This experience was foundational, allowing her to navigate complex business landscapes with ease.

At Lenovo, she has played a pivotal role in steering the company away from its roots as a traditional PC manufacturer and towards becoming a comprehensive solutions provider. Ho believes in embracing challenges as opportunities, something that has been crucial in guiding the company through the turbulent waters of digital transformation.

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As she continues leading Lenovo’s efforts in Asia Pacific, Ho remains committed to fostering an environment where technology catalyses positive change. Her vision extends beyond mere business success, encompassing a desire to make technology accessible and beneficial for all sectors of society.

In reflecting on her journey, Ho embodies the essence of a true leader—one who is not afraid to embrace new challenges while remaining focused on the impact of her work. Here, Ho looks back on her journey in the industry and shares the rules she follows for a successful career.

Tatler Asia
Above Lenovo's Fan Ho

1 | Teamwork makes the dream work

“My biggest successes have been relied on the collective efforts and successes of the team. In complex solutions and services, there’s no such thing as a hero seller who just signs the deal. It requires deep coordination [between the teams].”

2 | Challenge the industry

“First, the IT industry is often seen as the ‘New Black’, with many opportunities promising to bring big changes in how we do business and generate value. But while AI holds promise, I think we need to challenge the industry a bit. Some AI practices have already proven valuable, and competitive edge through AI has been discussed for over a decade now, but I also don’t want us to overlook innovation in traditional IT services like managed services... My reflection is that AI is promising, but we need to focus on practical examples of how it can create real value and innovation.”

3 | Download software updates

“One habit that has helped me through my life is my commitment to lifelong learning. I spend a lot of time reading and comparing industry benchmarks. I actively engage with both internal and external resources to stay informed about AI trends, and I enjoy bouncing ideas off of customers and experts within Lenovo. It’s a practice that has kept me constantly learning and adapting.”

4 | Make time to align and refocus

“At the end of the day as management, we need to align the team [while also] celebrating the success of the team. [Of course], I should also be candid to the team in terms of what can actually be done better. [When we don’t get the results we hope for, I wonder how] we can get the team aligned, readjusted and refocused to make the next step.”

5 | Look back and reflect, but always move forward

“With so many things changing, sometimes we lose a little bit of focus. It’s always good for us to look at whether both feet are on the ground. [I always wonder] how we can move towards while being truthful to oneself and continue striving to achieve what needs to be done.”

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