Abstract

The case is based on Hong Kong Broadband Network (HKBN), the second-largest broadband service provider in the territory in 2012. The young and dynamic company is growing at a faster pace than its competitors, and attributes this success to its innovative approach to Talent management, which involves attracting, developing, retaining, and rewarding its 3,080-strong Talent base. HKBN’s Talent enhancement programs are designed to drive strong individual, team, and organizational performance, inspiring a highly engaged workforce and a high-performance work culture across the organization.
In mid-2012, when HKBN’s parent company, City Telecom, sold HKBN and all related telecom businesses to a global private equity firm―CVC Capital Partners—it created a new challenge for NiQ Lai, head of Talent engagement and CFO. The new directive for NiQ was to lead HKBN to an initial public offering (IPO) in three to five years’ time. To do so, the key question was, how should the management team leverage its Talent base to maximize the value of the company?
 

Learning Objectives

The key objective of this case is to demonstrate the significance of human resource development in a highly competitive organization. It shows how Talent management resources can be intelligently allocated to contribute materially to organizational performance and achieve superior business results. In addition, students will recognize a systematic approach to identifying new Talent, developing potential Talent, and enhancing the organization's leadership pipeline over time.