Early Life
Hans Sy was born in 1955 as the fourth child of Henry Sy Sr. and Felicidad Tan. He spent his weekends from the age of 13 learning the ropes of the family business. While his father initially wanted him to pursue Commerce, Hans chose to study Mechanical Engineering at De La Salle University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree.
Rise to Success
After graduating, Hans Sy began his career in the family business, starting in the Menswear Section of SM Cubao in 1978. He later took on various key positions within SM Prime Holdings, the property development arm of the SM Group, and served as its President until 2016. During his tenure, SM Prime experienced significant growth and became the largest retail shopping center developer and operator in the Philippines.
Key Business Strategies
Hans Sy played a crucial role in the expansion of SM Prime Holdings, overseeing the development of numerous malls and properties across the Philippines and China. He is known for his strategic vision and ability to drive business growth. His focus on sustainable practices is evident through initiatives like the installation of solar panels in SM malls, contributing to significant reductions in carbon emissions. Hans also chairs China Banking Corporation and National University.
Philanthropy
Hans Sy is actively involved in various philanthropic endeavors. He has been a strong advocate for education, environment, and the arts. He played a key role in supporting his father's vision for National University. Furthermore, his commitment to environmental sustainability is reflected in the implementation of renewable energy projects across SM malls.
