Early Life
Peter Woo Kwong-ching was born in Shanghai, China, in 1946. His family moved to Hong Kong when he was around four years old. Woo attended St. Stephen's College in Hong Kong before pursuing higher education in the United States. He graduated from the University of Cincinnati with a degree in physics and mathematics, where he served as senior class president. He later earned an MBA from Columbia Business School.
Rise to Success
Woo began his career at Chase Manhattan Bank in New York in 1972. In 1975, he joined his wife's family business in Hong Kong. He became chairman of Wheelock and Company Limited and The Wharf (Holdings) Limited. He oversaw the expansion of these companies into commercial real estate, retail, and logistics. Under his leadership, companies developed key assets including Hong Kong's Cross-Harbour Tunnel, Star Ferry, tram system, and the city's first cable television network.
Key Business Strategies
Woo focused on high-yield real estate and retail segments. The Wharf (Holdings) invested in luxury residential complexes, commercial buildings, and shopping malls like Harbour City and Times Square in Hong Kong. He emphasized diversification and internationalization, expanding into new markets and embracing innovation.
Philanthropy
Woo is involved in several philanthropic initiatives, including Project WeCan, which supports underprivileged students in Hong Kong. In 1992, he and his wife donated HK$120 million to establish a cancer center at Prince of Wales Hospital. Woo has also served in various public roles, including chairman of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council and the Hong Kong Hospital Authority.
