Early Life
Wee Ee Cheong was born in Singapore in 1953. He is the eldest son of the late Wee Cho Yaw, a prominent banking tycoon who played a pivotal role in establishing the family's wealth through his leadership at United Overseas Bank (UOB). Wee earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a Master of Arts in Applied Economics from American University in Washington, D.C.
Rise to Success
Wee Ee Cheong began his professional career at UOB in 1979, after graduating from American University. He steadily rose through the ranks, holding various key positions within the bank. In 2000, he was appointed deputy chairman and president. In April 2007, Wee succeeded his father as CEO, becoming the third-generation leader of UOB. Under his leadership, UOB has pursued aggressive expansion through strategic acquisitions, including the S$4.9 billion acquisition of Citigroup's consumer banking businesses in Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam in 2022.
Key Business Strategies
Wee Ee Cheong is known for his strategic vision and ability to adapt to the rapidly changing financial landscape. He has spearheaded UOB's digital transformation, investing heavily in technology. His leadership style emphasizes innovation, customer-centricity, and sustainable growth. He also focuses on regional expansion, particularly in Southeast Asia, to capitalize on emerging market opportunities.
Philanthropy
Wee Ee Cheong actively supports philanthropic activities related to education, community development, and arts and culture through UOB's initiatives. In April 2025, UOB and the family's philanthropic Wee Foundation pledged a combined gift of S$110 million to NTU Singapore for new educational initiatives such as cultivating entrepreneurship.
