The author of “Life Hacks” and “Growth Hacks”, Dr. Ken Ip is an award-winning brand strategist, assistant professor, columnist and expert commentator in Web3, AI, Tech, Branding and Digital Economy. Ken has held a variety of senior positions for leading multinationals and conglomerates, ranging from corporate consulting to public affairs advisory. He currently serves as Chairman of the Asia MarTech Society and on the Advisory Boards of several professional organisations, including two universities. He is also a strategic advisor for a Web3-focused VC firm with a USD75 million asset portfolio.
Recently, in an exclusive interview with Higher Education Digest, Ken shared his professional trajectory, the secret mantra behind his success, significant career milestones, personal hobbies and interest, future plans, words of wisdom, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.
Hi Ken. Please tell us about your background and areas of interest.
My background is in advertising, marketing, and communications, but these days, everyone claims they do marketing. So instead, I tell people that I’m now semi-retired and interested in what I call the new ABCDs of business: AI, Blockchain, Cloud, and Data. I wear many hats—serving as a board director, Web3 venture capital investor, entrepreneur, and academic, researching topics from digital innovation to blockchain. I’ve also authored two bestsellers, “Life Hacks” and “Growth Hacks,” and I contribute to three major newspapers in Hong Kong, writing columns in both English and Chinese.
What do you love the most about your current role?
What I love most is the constant evolution of who I am and striving to be the best version of myself. I recently got a tattoo on my forearm that says, “What is my thing?” It serves as a daily reminder to reflect on my life’s purpose. Every morning, it prompts me to think deeply about how I’m moving toward my goals. This constant introspection fuels my growth both personally and professionally, making every aspect of my current role fulfilling.
You are Chairman at Asia MarTech Society. Can you please tell us about this Society, its mission and vision?
Asia MarTech Society is a community-driven association that connects MarTech players and stakeholders across Asia. Our mission is to promote the adoption of marketing technologies and facilitate trade within the region. We achieve this by organising events, sharing knowledge, and forming strategic partnerships with our counterparts in Europe and the U.S. Additionally, we actively engage with governments, MarTech developers, and institutional investors to foster a robust ecosystem for growth and collaboration in the MarTech sector.
What are some of the things you’re most excited about right now in your field?
Though I often talk about “AI overdose” in my keynotes, there’s no denying its transformative impact as a driver of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Beyond AI, I’m excited by the broader spectrum of the “new economy”—from Fintech and Blockchain to emerging fields like Deeptech, spatial computing, and even the low-altitude economy. These concepts are redefining the future of business, and the pace of innovation in these areas keeps me energized and optimistic about the possibilities.
The meaning of leadership can change from one era to the other, how would you define the meaning of leadership today?
While the core principles of leadership—such as leading by example and having a compelling vision—remain unchanged, the dynamics of today’s workforce are different. Millennials, now in their 30s and 40s, present new challenges and opportunities for leaders. Additionally, with the rise of remote work, leaders must adapt to manage teams from a distance, ensuring productivity while respecting work-life balance. The ability to harness these changes, while staying true to the fundamentals of leadership, defines success today.
How do you keep yourself skilled and relevant in terms of knowledge?
For the past six or seven years, I’ve been doing a “52 books in 52 weeks” challenge, which has been a transformative experience. Writing weekly columns, teaching, and speaking publicly also keep me sharp. Whether it’s preparing for media appearances or drafting a lecture, I’m always in a position where I need to learn something new. This constant exposure to fresh ideas and emerging trends keeps me relevant and continuously evolving in my field.
In your academic or work career, were there any mentors who have helped you grow along the way? What’s the best piece of advice you have ever received?
I’ve been fortunate to have had mentors in the form of previous bosses. They didn’t hold my hand or micromanage; instead, I learned by observing and doing. They taught me to take initiative, solve problems, and make things happen. One of the best pieces of advice I’ve received is that actions speak louder than words. The ability to execute, rather than just talk, is what separates true professionals from the rest.
What do you feel has been your ‘career-defining’ moment?
I often tell people I do two things: I’m a storyteller, and I connect brands with audiences. In some ways, I think of myself as a celebrity agent, ensuring my ‘clients’ are in the right place at the right time—getting opportunities to shine, whether that’s in the media or at major events. These days, when you type “Ken Ip” into Google, it recognizes me even before you finish typing, which is a reflection of how I’ve become known as a business influencer.
What are your passions outside of work?
Outside of work, I’m deeply involved in music—playing guitar, bass, and piano—and even dabble in beatboxing. I’m also a dedicated Muay Thai boxer and Wing Chun instructor, and I spar regularly with both pro and amateur fighters. These hobbies keep me grounded and teach me discipline and respect, not just for myself but for others. Whether I’m writing, sparring, or playing music, these passions enrich my life in ways that go beyond my professional achievements.
Where would you like to be in the next 5 years?
When you’re early in your career, you often get asked about your five-year plan. These days, I think that question is limiting. Instead, my life revolves around three things: Fame, Fun, and Fortune. Rather than planning too far ahead, I focus on creating a life that embodies those three principles, allowing me to remain flexible and open to new opportunities as they arise.
What is the one piece of advice that you can share with other professionals in your industry?
What gets measured gets done. If you want to achieve something, you have to quantify it, track it, and hold yourself accountable. This simple yet powerful concept has been a guiding force in my career, and I believe it can help others reach their goals as well.