Early Life
Peter Woo Kwong-ching was born in Shanghai, China, on September 5, 1946. His family moved to Hong Kong in 1949. Woo attended St. Stephen's College before pursuing higher education in the United States. He earned a bachelor's degree in physics from the University of Cincinnati, where he was senior class president and valedictorian. He then obtained 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, Wheelock and Company Limited, and The Wharf (Holdings) Limited. He became chairman of both companies, which focused on real estate and property development. Under his leadership, the companies developed key assets such as Harbour City and Times Square in Hong Kong. He stepped down as chairman in 2015 but remains an advisor.
Key Business Strategies
Woo's business acumen led to significant growth in Wheelock & Co. and Wharf Holdings. He focused on high-yield real estate and retail segments, including managing significant properties and investments in telecom, ports, and luxury retail. His strategic decisions transformed these companies into major players in Hong Kong's economic landscape.
Philanthropy
Peter Woo is known for his philanthropic efforts. In 1992, he and his wife donated HK$120 million to establish a cancer center at Prince of Wales Hospital. He founded Project WeCan in 2011 to support underprivileged students through mentorship and funding, expanding the initiative to 76 secondary schools.