Ho Ching

Photo by Temasek

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Notable Roles

- Chairperson, Temasek Trust (2022–present)
- President & CEO, Singapore Technologies (1997–2001)

Key Recognition

 - Tripled Temasek’s portfolio from S$90B to over S$300B during her tenure
- Named among Forbes’ World’s Most Powerful Women for 16 consecutive years
- Architect of Temasek’s global investment strategy and ESG transformation
- Spearheaded philanthropic initiatives via Temasek Trust and Trailblazer Foundation
- Honored with Singapore’s Public Administration Medal (Silver) and Public Service Star

Background and Early Foundations

Born in 1954 in Singapore, Ho Ching graduated with a Bachelor of Engineering (First Class Honours) from the University of Singapore and later earned a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering from Stanford University. She began her career at the Ministry of Defence, eventually leading the Defence Materiel Organisation. Her transition to the corporate sector saw her helm Singapore Technologies before joining Temasek Holdings, where she left an indelible mark on Singapore’s investment landscape.

Career Milestones and Impact

Year

Milestone

1976

Began career as an engineer at Singapore’s Ministry of Defence

1983

Appointed Director of Defence Materiel Organisation

1997

Became President & CEO of Singapore Technologies

2002

Joined Temasek Holdings as Executive Director

2004

Appointed CEO of Temasek Holdings

2021

Retired as CEO; succeeded by Dilhan Pillay Sandrasegara

2022

Appointed Chairperson of Temasek Trust

  • Temasek Portfolio Growth: S$90B (2004) → S$381B (2021)
  • Global Offices Established: 14 across 10 countries
  • Portfolio Diversification: Singapore exposure reduced from 50% to 24%
  • ESG Investments: S$44B in sustainability-aligned assets by 2024
  • Philanthropic Endowments: Oversight of Temasek Trust’s community programs

Leadership Style and Influence

Ho Ching is recognized for her strategic foresight and disciplined investment approach. She emphasized long-term value creation, governance, and sustainability, transforming Temasek into a globally respected investment firm. Her leadership style fostered a culture of continuous learning and adaptability.

Legacy and Future Focus

Ho Ching’s legacy includes the globalization of Temasek’s portfolio and the integration of ESG principles into investment strategies. As Chairperson of Temasek Trust, she continues to influence philanthropic efforts, focusing on social resilience and sustainable development.

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