The new president of the Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines (FINEX) vowed to champion innovation in business and called on fellow leaders to promote positive change for society through finance.
PHINMA chief financial officer EJ Qua Hiansen took his oath as FINEX president on Jan. 27, 2025 at the Makati Diamond Residences. This year’s leadership adopted the theme “Shaping the Future: Leadership and Innovation in Philippine Business.”
“Amid volatile and changing times, we will focus on the fundamentals, our capacity to lead organizations, and a continuous drive for innovation,” Qua Hiansen said, citing the economic theory of innovation cycles.
The current wave, which encompasses artificial intelligence and robotics could be briefer than the most recent cycle that included social media and digital networks, he said.
“Strong leadership, the right talent and like-minded partners have guided companies through these cycles. For me, this is one of the values of FINEX: cultivating financial executives who will elevate our businesses by capitalizing on the opportunities presented by emerging technologies,” he said.
PHINMA chairman and chief executive Ramon del Rosario Jr. served as the keynote speaker and inducting officer for this year’s ceremonies, where he talked about using finance as a force for Filipino dignity and reminded leaders in attendance that their work goes beyond numbers.
Qua Hiansen thanked his predecessor Toti Bengzon of Ayala Land Inc. for a successful term.
A homegrown talent, Qua Hiansen began his PHINMA journey as the executive assistant to then-president del Rosario in 2013. He rose through the ranks in the subsequent years, holding various positions such as investor relations officer, vice president-corporate strategy and planning and deputy CFO prior to his current role.
Qua Hiansen holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from Butler University in Indiana, USA where he was recognized as one of the Top 100 Outstanding Students in 2005, along with a Master’s degree in Global Finance from HKUST-NYU Stern.
