A Visionary Business Leader and Trusted Advisor at the Intersection of Business and Technology

Genie Sugene Gan is a globally recognized leader whose expertise spans business strategy, cybersecurity, law, and public policy. With a remarkable ability to navigate complex, high-stakes environments, she has established herself as a trusted business advisor and savvy leader. As the CEO of 1st Intelligence, a full-suite corporate intelligence services firm, Genie leverages her deep understanding of global markets, geopolitics, and emerging technologies to guide enterprises and governments in making strategic, future-ready decisions. Her remit spans 94 countries globally, where she leads high-level engagements with governments, regulators, and Fortune 500 companies, driving transformative outcomes in cybersecurity, digital transformation, and ethical AI governance.

A Career of Impact and Leadership with Many Faces

Genie’s career is a testament to her versatility, strategic acumen, and fearless leadership. Without formal technology training, she boldly transitioned into cybersecurity during the pandemic, quickly rising to senior management within a year. Her ability to perceive opportunities where others perceive uncertainty, and to lead in a highly dynamic industry underscores her business-savvy mindset. An INSEAD alumna with a Juris Doctor in Law, an honors degree in Accountancy, and a Specialist Diploma in Counseling Psychology, Genie combines legal, financial, and psychological expertise to deliver holistic solutions. Her early career at Big Four firms, award-winning entrepreneurial ventures, and senior government roles—including serving as a Singapore negotiator at the UN General Assembly and Director for policy and law reform—have equipped her with a unique perspective on global business and governance.

A Trusted Advisor and Advocate for Ethical Leadership

Genie’s leadership philosophy centers on empowering others and fostering success. She believes that every organization is fundamentally people-focused and that effective leadership is about enabling others to thrive. Her mantra: Anyone who works with me must leave in a better place than when they arrived. This people-first approach has earned her accolades such as “Most Empowering Female Leader of the Year 2025” (CToday Awards). “Business Woman Leader of the Year 2024” and “Top Cybersecurity Woman of the World 2024”, amongst a string of top accolades to her name.

As a sought-after keynote speaker and thought leader, Genie influences global discourse on leadership, women in tech, and the future of technology. She serves on boards of large organisations and sits in global and national councils where she shapes policies and strategies at the intersection of technology, ethics, and business.

Shaping the Future of Business and Technology

Genie’s forward-thinking vision is redefining industries. She predicts that cybersecurity will become a core business function, AI will drive strategic decision-making, and quantum computing will revolutionize encryption. A strong advocate for ethical AI governance and sustainable technology, she emphasizes the need for decentralized business models and cross-sector collaboration. Her insights have positioned her as a leading voice in emerging technologies, with features in international media and invitations to speak at forums like the UN, G20, ASEAN, and Boao Forum.

Mentorship and Legacy

A passionate mentor, Genie actively supports professionals transitioning in their careers. Her own journey—entering the field without technical expertise—demonstrates the power of curiosity, courage, and tenacity. She encourages the next generation to embrace challenges, step out of their comfort zones, and build meaningful connections. Embarking on her executive education at Harvard this year, Genie continues to push boundaries, mentor aspiring leaders, and advocate for industry innovation.

Conclusion

Genie Sugene Gan is more than a leader—she is a trusted advisor, a catalyst for change, and a role model for aspiring professionals. Her ability to bridge business, technology, and policy, coupled with her unwavering commitment to ethical leadership, makes her an indispensable asset to any organization or conference. Her message is clear: Be bold, stay curious, and cultivate relationships that drive growth and success.