CEO Insights Magazine

When it comes to channelling the financial health and strategic direction of a business, the role of a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) stands crucial. Beyond just crunching numbers, a CFO is a key decision-maker who navigates complexities, mitigate risks, and drives growth through sound financial management and foresight. A strong individual with rich industry experience, Hieu Tuan Ne, is currently positioned as the CFO of Hard Discount Vietnam. With a solid educational background in auditing, including a master's degree and ACCA qualification, Hieu Tuan Ne has honed his expertise through notable experiences. Starting from Ernst & Young, one of the prestigious Big 4 auditing firms in Vietnam, he ventured into various roles encompassing finance and accounting within prominent organizations like Central Group, BJC, Grove Group, and served as the CFO of Yody Fashion before assuming his current position.

Hieu Tuan Ne's motivation stems from his deep-seated belief in the transformative power of financial stewardship. He thrives on the opportunity to bring value to the companies he serves, guiding them through obstacles and implementing innovative solutions that yield long-term success. His approach not only benefits the bottom line but also fosters a collaborative environment where colleagues and companies alike thrive under his leadership. As the CFO of Hard Discount Vietnam, Hieu Tuan Ne continues to exemplify excellence, driving financial performance and strategic vision in a rapidly evolving market landscape. Let’s hear more from him in this one on one interaction.

Tell us about your leadership approach. What are the guidelines or methodologies you follow as a leader?

In my leadership approach, I prioritize logic and problem-solving skills. I don't adhere to traditional hierarchies; instead, I foster an environment where the best ideas prevail, regardless of position. We emphasize finding the most effective solutions by focusing on problem-solving, holistic perspectives, and systemic thinking. This approach ensures that every decision is guided by what is most right, rather than who suggests it. Ultimately, it's about cultivating a culture where everyone feels empowered to contribute their expertise and where collective intelligence drives success.

How do you keep yourself up-to-date with ongoing industry trends to steer your organization towards the future?

Staying abreast of industry trends is crucial for steering our organization towards the future. My approach involves drawing insights from diverse experiences, including consulting for startups and established companies from various industry. This exposes me to a broad spectrum of market dynamics and allows me to discern interconnections between industries, identifying their respective strengths and weaknesses. Additionally, I stay updated on accounting and finance trends through LinkedIn, where I connect with experts in the field. Regular research on retail news from platforms like Cafebiz, Vietnambusinessinsider, and Nguoiquansat keeps me informed about market shifts and developments. By integrating these sources of information, I ensure that our strategies remain adaptive and aligned with emerging trends, enabling us to navigate industry landscapes effectively.

In your professional journey so far, which are the milestones that bestowed you with the utmost satisfaction - both personally and professionally?

Throughout my professional journey, I've found satisfaction in every milestone achieved, as each represents an opportunity to solve challenges and add value to the companies I've collaborated with. Rather than singling out specific achievements, I find fulfillment in the ongoing process of problem-solving and growth. Every step of this journey, every moment spent addressing issues and implementing solutions, contributes to my personal and professional satisfaction. It's the journey itself, filled with its challenges and triumphs, that brings me the greatest sense of fulfillment.

What is the future destination you are heading towards?

My current focus is on my role at Hard Discount Vietnam, where we prioritize offering unbeatable prices and quality goods to customers, particularly during challenging economic times when customers are more discerning about their purchases. This commitment to providing value and meeting customer needs aligns with my professional aspirations. However, looking ahead, I do not neglect opportunities that allow me to continue contributing to innovative and customer-centric ventures. Whether it's in the realm of retail or beyond, I am driven by the desire to make a positive impact and address evolving market demands. As I navigate my professional journey, I remain adaptable and eager to explore new knowledge that enable me to uphold my commitment to delivering exceptional value and service.

What guidance would you offer to aspiring financial leaders in the industry?

In today's dynamic landscape, financial leaders must possess comprehensive expertise spanning accounting, taxation, finance, control, and operational systems. Unlike in the past, current market conditions present heightened challenges and cost constraints, necessitating a multifaceted skill set. It's imperative for emerging leaders to cultivate a deep understanding of every facet of business operations, recognizing the interconnectedness between various sectors. Striking a balance between overarching insights and granular details is paramount. Therefore, I advise upcoming financial leaders to prioritize acquiring both comprehensive and nuanced knowledge, enabling them to navigate complexities effectively and contribute meaningfully to organizational success.

Hieu Tuan Ne, CFO, Hard Discount Vietnam

Hieu Tuan Ne, CFO at Hard Discount Vietnam, brings extensive financial expertise cultivated through roles at Ernst & Young and leading retail groups. With a background in auditing and ACCA qualification, he excels in strategic financial management, driving growth in competitive markets.