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Lily Lu (SKEMA 2021): between wisdom and boldness, building an environment of trust
Lily Lu, Regional Director of Human Resources for Hilton Worldwide in South China, reveals a leadership style imbued with wisdom and pragmatism. Drawing on her experience within the Hilton Group, she shares a people-centred vision, is sensitive to cultural and gender differences, and insists that she is not interested in labels: her goal is to be recognised as a leader in her own right. An inspiring approach.
Know yourself
“I’m a results-oriented person, but I’ve realised that I can't control everything. I have my limits, I’m only human and I accept that. That’s okay. It’s a process of self-learning, and small realisations like that can change the atmosphere in the company.”
A vision of the organisation
“The organisation needs to create a safe working environment, one that can help leaders find the courage to take initiatives, to make decisions, or to say “hey, I might make a mistake, but I want to try this new method, and if I use this approach, the company or my boss won’t hold it against me”.
The river and the mountain
“What’s the difference between men and women? Sensitivity. We find it easier to say that we’re not feeling well, that we need a rest, or simply that we can’t do something. Men, on the other hand, are brought up to think that they can handle anything, that they are the kings of the world, the saviours. In Chinese culture, we describe women as rivers and men as mountains.”
A leader like any other
“As a woman, I don't want to be described as a female leader. I simply want to be remembered as a leader, a great leader.”
A world in tune
“In the post-Covid world, everyone is now paying more attention to individual feelings, empathy, well-being.”
KEY DATES
2006
Director of Human Resources, Hilton Hefei
2011
Director of Human Resources, Hilton Nanjing Riverside
2012
Regional Director of Human Resources – South China, Hilton Worldwide
2021
Graduate of the Global Executive MBA at SKEMA Business School
2022
Regional Director of Human Resources, South China and HGI GCM, Hilton Management
