Hui Zhen Lum

Could you share something unexpected or a fun fact about you?

I enjoy long-distance walks to explore new places and connect with nature. Some of my favourites include the Camino de Santiago (I completed part of it and hope to cover the rest one day), the Kumano Kodo, the West Highland Way and the Milford Track.

Tell us about yourself, and how you got to where you are today, both on a professional and personal level?

Professionally, I am part of the Singapore Public Service. I have taken on a range of roles, including policy, strategy, planning, budgeting and diplomacy across several ministries (the Ministry of Trade and Industry, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Law and the Ministry of Home Affairs). I have also served as a Singapore delegate to the UN General Assembly. In addition, I had a short private sector secondment with Singtel under the Public Service Talent Attachment Programme.

I have been fortunate to work with great bosses and colleagues who supported me and gave me opportunities to stretch myself. I also find deep meaning in my work — serving Singapore, Singaporeans and the people I work with — so it has been a very fulfilling journey so far.

Personally, I am happily married with one young child. They are gifts from God.

What led you to decide to pursue an Executive MBA, and why did you choose INSEAD in particular?

I was allowed to pursue a sponsored postgraduate course. I was keen to better understand how senior private sector executives operate, as well as their instincts. The complex challenges we face today require collaboration across both the public and private sectors.

 The INSEAD GEMBA was particularly attractive given its highly international cohort and the depth of experience participants bring from their respective fields.  

How would you describe your experience so far? What is your impression of the faculty, the curriculum, and your fellow participants?

The experience has been absolutely fantastic so far.

I have really enjoyed the coursework and learning. This is what education should be like. I never expected that subjects like accounting or statistics could be so engaging. In areas such as international political analysis, strategy, marketing and economics, I have gained new perspectives that help me better understand complex global issues.

A large part of this comes from the quality of the faculty.

The faculty are at the top of their field, both in teaching and in their passion for their subjects. They bring content to life through insightful real-world examples, cases and simulations.

My fellow participants also contribute greatly by sharing their experiences and perspectives openly. More broadly, there is something very energising about being part of a group that is genuinely committed to learning, growing and supporting one another.

Can you share a little about your application process and what you found most helpful and challenging during your preparation?

The application process was relatively smooth. I appreciated the discussion with the interview panel and their advice on not underestimating the rigour of the programme. The guidance from Alina on what to expect throughout the process was also very helpful.

What advice would you give to someone who might be interested in pursuing an INSEAD programme?

It is a significant investment of time and resources. However, if you are clear about what you hope to gain from the experience, it is well worth it.