Victor Han

China Europe International Business School

“Actively engaged, embracing life’s contradictions with a full heart”

Hometown: Ottawa, Canada

Fun Fact About Yourself: I play a Tiefling Monk in Dungeons & Dragons and also have a formidable Drukhari army in Warhammer 40k

Undergraduate School and Major: University of Ottawa, BSc Biomedical Science

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Amazon, Operations Manager

What has been the biggest accomplishment in your career so far?

Finding a career path that aligns my professional endeavors with my personal values, allowing me to bridge gaps in understanding, culture, and innovation without a need for recognition.

When you think of CEIBS, what is the first word that comes to mind?

CEIBS in one word: Harmony

‘Harmony’ profoundly captures my experience at CEIBS, a rare sanctuary where Eastern wisdom meets Western analytical rigor. This fusion has refined my leadership and strategic foresight amidst a world often divided. Engaging in cross-cultural dialogues, from forums with global leaders to everyday interactions, has positioned me at the forefront of navigating our complex, interconnected world. Reflecting the Chinese philosophy of ‘润物细无声’ – influencing quietly but significantly – CEIBS embodies inclusivity and mutual respect. Here, I’ve learned that despite our differences, finding common ground is possible. My journey, from student representation in the MBA2025 Student Committee, to silent meditation retreats, has been one of discovering harmony, fostering hope, resilience, and a future of shared voices.

What are one or two key aspects of this program that led you to choose CEIBS, and why were they so important to you?

Choosing CEIBS was driven by its unparalleled combination of deep insights into China and a broad global perspective – China Depth, Global Breadth. Unlike standard business education available globally (and online for free), CEIBS provided a unique chance for me to deep dive and reconnect with my ancestral roots. Raised in Canada as an American/Canadian-Born Chinese, I’ve always balanced Western culture with my Chinese heritage, a journey filled with complexities.

CEIBS offered more than academic excellence; it presented a bridge to my cultural legacy, allowing me to explore my origins and understand my family’s history. Fearing a loss of connection to my Chinese roots, CEIBS became a beacon, offering not just business fundamentals but also a platform to embrace and integrate my dual identity. This comprehensive approach solidified my decision to pursue my MBA at CEIBS.

What course, club, activity, or experience at CEIBS excites you the most and why?

At CEIBS, my most remarkable experiences include auditing the ‘Theory and Practice of Development in Modern China’ course, which offered profound insights into the fusion of business strategies with China’s governmental objectives. This exclusive perspective on China’s economic policies enriched my understanding beyond conventional academic offerings.

Equally impactful was leading the ‘Redefining Strength: A Dialogue on Modern Masculinity and Inclusive Leadership’ forum. This initiative, held in January 2024 and featuring collaboration with Professors Frank Yu and Emma Zhuo Chen, as well as DEI industry leaders from Johnson & Johnson and Tencent, challenged conventional views on masculinity within the workplace. It highlighted CEIBS’ dedication to supporting and fostering meaningful discussions on pressing business and societal challenges, promoting a culture of openness and inclusivity.

Additionally, the China Module on Family Business & Succession, led by Professor Jean Lee, delved into the intricate world of family business dynamics, focusing on the delicate balance between tradition and the duty of succession. This experiential learning module unveiled the complex, often emotional aspects of family-led enterprises, providing a rare glimpse into the personal side of business operations.

What is one thing you have recently read, watched, or listened to that you would highly recommend to other prospective CEIBS MBAs?

 I highly recommend re-watching ‘Shaolin Soccer’ to anyone considering a CEIBS MBA. This film, as iconic now as it was at its release, offers more than just entertainment. For someone who grew up outside China, consuming Chinese media was a window into the East Asian culture I was so curious about. Watching ‘Shaolin Soccer’ again felt like opening a time capsule, providing a snapshot of China’s media and culture in the early 2000s. It is fascinating to see the evolution from then to the present day, offering a unique perspective on how rapidly societal and cultural landscapes can transform. This reflection is invaluable for prospective CEIBS MBAs, offering insights into China’s dynamic culture and the importance of understanding historical context in business. ‘Ip Man’ is another film that captures this essence, highlighting resilience and growth mindset – qualities essential for any MBA candidate.

What are two things you have learned being at CEIBS that have surprised you so far – one academic and one non-academic?

Academic: Embracing imperfection in the pursuit of excellence

The program taught me the importance of mastering the art of prioritization and executive decision-making over striving for perfection in every task. Embracing this philosophy, I navigated Term 1 with a C+ in Microeconomics (apologies to Professor Bala Ramasamy) and zero preparation for my accounting final (B+), yet my GPA remains (shockingly) intact to sustain my second-year scholarship. Thus, I learned that academic excellence (at least at the MBA level), isn’t about flawless scores but the strategic and sometimes intentionally selective pursuit of knowledge.

Non-Academic: A universal quest for connection

On a non-academic front, my transition to China, after thirty years in the West, has deepened my understanding of cultural perceptions and the universal human experience. Despite cultural differences, there is a universal desire for belonging and fulfillment that binds us all, a lesson that has deepened my appreciation for diversity.

What advice would you give to help potential applicants gain admission into CEIBS MBA program?

Focus on self-reflection and understanding your core values rather than trying to predict a specific career path post-MBA. Embrace a growth mindset and view challenges as opportunities to learn and evolve. Your authentic self, grounded in self-awareness and adaptability, is your strongest application asset.