Introducing Prof Yang Jun, the New Dean of NBS

On 1 July 2024, Prof Yang Jun took on the role of Dean at NTU Singapore’s Nanyang Business School (NBS). Prof Yang has extensive expertise in financial strategy and also serves as the President’s Chair in Finance at NTU.

Her academic background includes two PhDs: one in finance from Washington University in St. Louis and another in systems engineering and engineering management from the Chinese University of Hong Kong. Her research on corporate governance, executive compensation, and financial technology is well-regarded and has been featured in various media outlets. Prof Yang has also contributed to several academic and professional finance associations in editorial and leadership capacities.

We caught up with Prof Yang to discuss her motivations for joining NBS, her research background, and her plans for the future.

What motivated you to apply for the Dean position at NBS?

What really stands out to me is NTU’s technological strength and global reputation, and NBS’s unique place within this ecosystem. NTU’s commitment to cutting-edge research, international partnerships, and sustainability fits perfectly with my vision for NBS. These factors position NBS to continuously innovate, lead, and transform in both research and business education on a global scale.

What aspects of your new role are you looking forward to the most?

People are at the core of everything I do. Since joining NBS, I’ve been connecting with faculty, staff, students, alumni, and partners, learning about the great work being done. I’ve arrived at a particularly interesting time with NTU’s convocation ceremony underway, which has also allowed me to meet parents and engage with the community. I’m eager to lead our collective efforts to enhance the quality of our curriculum and strengthen the global reputation of our academic research. There are already some promising plans in the works, and I’m excited to see them come to fruition.

What is your approach to leadership?

This role is both inspiring and humbling. I’m fortunate to work with a talented team, and I’ve already noticed the brilliance each member brings. My goal is to harness that talent to create a meaningful impact. I aim to set aspirational goals that resonate with the team and foster a sense of fulfillment, while also encouraging individuals to leverage their strengths and collaborate effectively. It’s about creating an environment where everyone can contribute their best and achieve collective success.

Can you tell us about your research background and your decision to focus on finance?

My background in both engineering and finance reflects my early interest in processes, numbers, and methodical thinking. My research focuses on corporate finance, risk management, and financial innovation. I’ve always been fascinated by how financial systems function and evolve, and how strategic financial decisions can drive business success and economic growth. My engineering background offers a unique perspective, allowing me to approach financial challenges with a critical and analytical mindset, combined with an entrepreneurial spirit. This blend of skills and interests makes my work in finance particularly fulfilling, and I’m eager to apply this experience to guide NBS with a data-driven and innovative approach to business education.

Can you share a memorable moment or achievement from your previous roles?

One of the standout moments from my previous role was observing the positive transformation within our department over the three years I served as chair. Many colleagues noted that the atmosphere became more collaborative and supportive. It was rewarding to see how creating an open environment led to increased engagement and productivity. It wasn’t just about achieving goals; it was about fostering a space where everyone felt valued and motivated. That sense of collective achievement was truly meaningful.

What message would you like to convey to our students?

To our students, I would say: Be ambitious and resilient. Pursue your goals with passion and view challenges as opportunities for growth. Obstacles are not roadblocks but chances to learn and develop. While the journey may be tough at times, it’s through these experiences that you build strength and uncover your true potential. Embrace each challenge as an opportunity to enhance your skills and broaden your horizons. The path to success is often paved with perseverance and adaptability.