Alumni profile 

James Lo 
Partnership Team (Consumer Card) 
American Express Bank (Hong Kong) 

Qualifications: 
Bachelor of Commerce (Marketing & Accounting)
Master of Commerce (International Business)
MBA, AGSM
Associate Member of CPA Australia 

Class of : 1997

What did you want to be when you grew up?
When I was a kid I wanted to be a policeman, a civil engineer, an accountant, etc. But as I grew up, I found that it was very important to find a career that was closely in line with my interests.

First full time job
I began my career as a market researcher at a firm called Synovate.

Current job description
In my current role I am mainly responsible for new business development in cobrand cards as well as distribution partnerships.

Your strengths
I am an achievement-oriented person. I can use "tenacious, ambitious, disciplined, friendly and down-to-earth" to describe my personality.

Your weaknesses
I am a bit stubborn and long-winded. But I think it is a good trait too because being stubborn means persistent in another sense. Do you agree?

Mentor or greatest inspiration
My mentor is still my beloved Dad. He is my life-long mentor. He shares with me his experience in his career and other aspects of daily life.

Where will you be in 10- 15 years?
I wish I would be promoted to a Vice President position within American Express Bank in 10-15 years , either with the card business or the banking business.

What advice would you give to a fresh graduate wanting to enter your industry?
Talk to your friends or seniors, understand the nature of different businesses within the banking/finance industry, and choose the industry you want to pursue a long term career. Always remember - plan your move, time your move, review your move!

Why did you choose UNSW and your degree?
To me, I hold 1 bachelor degree and 2 master degress from UNSW. You will understand that I truly believe in the values which UNSW will bring to my career. As a matter of fact, UNSW enjoys a distinctive reputation in the Asia-Pacific region and worldwide.

What do you do to unwind?
Go to gym and PC gaming.