Ms. Vivien Chan, SBS, BBS, JP, is a titan in Hong Kong's legal and business arenas, masterfully balancing roles as a senior lawyer, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. In 1985, she founded Vivien Chan & Co., a distinguished law firm renowned for its expertise in cross-border transactions. In 1995, she launched The V Group, a premium real estate development and serviced residence brand, managing both with unparalleled precision.

Vivien's success is anchored in a timeless nine-character Chinese motto: "生於慮，成於務，失於傲。" — "Careful planning and concrete actions lead to success, while complacency results in failure." She elaborates: "Careful planning demands meticulous strategy and analysis before action. Succeeding through diligence necessitates persistent, focused effort. Failing due to complacency warns us to stay humble, always learning from others' strengths." This philosophy, rooted in ancient wisdom, has been her north star, guiding her through complex challenges and diverse industries. Beyond her professional triumphs, Vivien's extensive public service and philanthropy have earned her the prestigious Legendary Award at the 2025 JESSICA Most Successful Women Awards, a tribute to her extraordinary contributions to society.

Involve. Catalyse. Emanate.

JESSICA Magazine's commitment to advancing women's empowerment is showcased in its 2025 Most Successful Women Awards, themed "Involve. Catalyse. Emanate." Vivien's interpretation is both profound and personal: "Involve signifies an unyielding commitment — the determination to conquer challenges and pursue dreams with tenacity. Catalyse is about breaking free from gender constraints, fueling my drive to achieve beyond limitations. Emanate means learning from everyone—colleagues, subordinates, even competitors. By embracing their strengths with an open mind, we enrich ourselves."

From Trainee to Trailblazer

Vivien's journey began over four decades ago when she earned her Master of Laws from the University of London. As a trainee solicitor at a prestigious UK law firm, she developed a passion for cross-border financing and mergers. After qualifying as a lawyer, she returned to Hong Kong and joined Baker & McKenzie, focusing on cross-border legal matters. Her first major transaction was representing an Australian consortium in acquiring Rediffusion Television, followed by numerous large-scale international acquisitions and mergers. After five years of stellar performance, Vivien took a bold leap in 1985, founding Vivien Chan & Co. to balance her demanding career with her role as a mother. "The long hours at Baker & McKenzie left little time for my one-year-old daughter," she recalls. "Starting my own firm allowed me to be present for her while continuing to serve my clients." Her reputation for excellence drew clients, and she admits with a wry smile, "I ended up busier than ever."

Pioneering in Mainland China

In the 1990s, Vivien recognized the immense potential of mainland China's economic reforms and opening-up policy. Navigating the stark legal and cultural differences between Hong Kong and the mainland was no small feat, but she saw it as an opportunity: "China's economic reforms opened doors. I guided Hong Kong and global firms, including Fortune 500 companies, to adapt to the mainland's unique environment." When China permitted foreign law firms to establish offices in 1992, Vivien's expertise secured her firm's Beijing office, one of the first for an independent Hong Kong practice. In 1993, her appointment as a Mainland Affairs Notary by China's Ministry of Justice further solidified her role, streamlining legal documentation for Hong Kong businesses.

A Lifetime of Achievement

Vivien's influence extends far beyond her law firm. She served as a Council Member of the Law Society of Hong Kong (1995–2000), President of the Inter-Pacific Bar Association (2002–2003), and a Board Member of the Legal Practice Division of the International Bar Association (2004–2010). Her accolades include China's Top 100 Outstanding Businesswomen Award (2010), Chambers & Partners' Eminent Practitioner, and China Business Law Journal's Top 100 Lawyers (2019, 2020, 2021, 2023, 2024). Appointed a Justice of the Peace (2000), she received the Bronze Bauhinia Star (2008), Silver Bauhinia Star (2014), and the American Chamber of Commerce's Lifetime Achievement Award (2017).

From Law to Real Estate

Vivien's success in law paved the way for her real estate ventures. Initially investing in rental properties, she recognized her knack for spotting opportunities. In 1995, she founded The V Group, focusing on boutique serviced residences. "In 1996, I acquired a property at 68 Sing Woo Road, Happy Valley and transformed it into our first flagship serviced apartment project," she shares. The V Group has expanded into prime locations like Wan Chai, Causeway Bay, and West Kowloon, with notable residential developments like Castle One by V, a luxurious 112-unit tower in Mid-Levels, and Twenty Peak Road by V, an ultra-luxury detached house development at 20 Peak Road hosting Nicole Kidman as a tenant.

Shaping Futures

Vivien's public service is as extensive as her professional achievements. She served as Chairperson of the Hong Kong Tourism Board's Staff and Finance Committee, Chairperson of the Advisory Committee on Travel Agents. As Chairperson of the Estate Agents Authority (2008–2014), she championed reforms, notably mandating the use of saleable area for all residential property sales, standardizing measurements and enhancing transparency and consumer protection in Hong Kong's property market. "Holding public office has given me the chance to collaborate with top professionals across various industries," she reflects.

Leaving a Legacy

Vivien's philanthropy is characterized by quiet dedication and profound impact. She is committed to promoting the development of children and youth, nurturing the pillars of our future society. She is a founding member of the Hong Kong Committee for UNICEF and served as its Vice-Chairperson from 1992 to 2002. From 1996 to 2008, she served as the Chairman of the Hong Kong Adventure Corps. During her tenure, she transformed the former British Army camps vacated in 1997 – including the army training camp adjacent to the High Island Reservoir in Sai Kung, which has since become the organization's headquarters – into a base for cultivating young leaders, now training thousands of young people in military-style discipline, leadership and resilience. Looking ahead, she plans to dedicate a sizable portion of her wealth to charitable causes, with a focus on underserved areas. " I aim to support organizations that advance youth development, and the much neglected youth disabled services," she shares, underscoring her belief in youth as the foundation of a thriving future. "Investing in the next generation is a crucial investment, fostering progress and prosperity for the future.

Vivien Chan's legacy as a pioneer in law and real estate is matched only by her commitment to social good. By breaking barriers and balancing multiple roles, she sets a standard for leadership that encourages others to pursue their dreams with unwavering resolve. Her story is a testament to the power of strategic vision, hard work, and a humble heart in creating a lasting impact.