Lai Ha Thu is a seasoned professional with over a decade of expertise in finance and strategic management. Her philosophy centers on leveraging strategic vision and unwavering commitment to empower businesses to achieve their full potential.
As the Investment Principal at Mekong Capital, Thu oversees the investment processes for LiveSpo and Mutosi, ensuring strategic alignment and fostering growth. She plays a pivotal role in promoting a culture of excellence and achieving the ambitious goals set by Mekong Capital and its investee companies. In her capacity as a Board member, she sets strategic direction, holds management accountable, and oversees operational excellence.
As a Deal Leader, she partners with companies to recruit key personnel and engages with external experts in areas such as customer experience, digital transformation, and corporate culture to successfully execute business plans.
Under her leadership, LiveSpo has seen a 15% CAGR in revenue and a 39% increase in sales distribution points between pre-investment and 2023. Similarly, Mutosi has achieved a 54% CAGR in revenue over the same period.
Thu’s career began in investment banking in New York City, where she advised on financing and M&A transactions at Credit Suisse. This experience ignited her curiosity about what drives company success. Her role at Seedcom in Ho Chi Minh City as Corporate Finance & Investor Relations Director further shaped her understanding of corporate dynamics and reinforced her belief in the value of strategic investment.
Joining Mekong Capital in June 2021, Thu was drawn to the fund’s Vision-Driven Investing approach. She is dedicated to transforming organizations to achieve their goals and believes her team is at the forefront of fostering Vietnam’s best homegrown businesses.
Outside of work, Thu is an avid reader, enjoys exploring new cultures, and values time with her family and daughter. Her journey, marked by professional rigor and personal passion, makes her a compelling and inspiring leader at Mekong Capital.
