Madam Thai Huong, a name that resonates with power, innovation, and resilience, has been at the forefront of transformative change in Vietnam. As the Founder and Chairwoman of the Strategy Council of TH Group, she has steered her conglomerate toward remarkable success. But that’s not all—she also wears the hat of Deputy Chairwoman of the Board of Directors and General Director of Bac A Commercial Joint Stock Bank (BAC A BANK). Her innovative leadership and commitment to sustainable development have blazed a trail.
Thai Huong, whose real name is Thai Thi Huong, was born in 1958 in Do Luong district, Nghe An province. After completing high school, she pursued a degree in financial accounting at the National Economics University. Upon graduating, she began her career at the Hai Phong Finance Department, where she worked from 1982 to 1985. Following this, she served as an accountant at the Nghe An Fuel Building Materials Company from 1985 to 1989.
In 1990, Thai Huong made a pivotal decision to leave her state job and transition to the private sector. This marked a significant turning point in her career. Reflecting on this decision, she explained that she felt constrained by the existing mechanisms and sought the freedom to develop her ideas. From 1990 to 1994, she took on the role of Director at Huong Ha Building Materials Co., Ltd., setting the stage for her future entrepreneurial endeavors.
The Birth of Bac A Bank
In 1994, Madam Thai Huong and a group of like-minded colleagues founded Bac A Commercial Joint Stock Bank (BAC A BANK). With an initial capital of 20 billion VND, they embarked on a mission to create a financial institution that would serve the community and empower individuals. BAC A BANK became a beacon of financial stability and customer-centric services.
TH True MILK: A Revolution in Dairy
Madam Thai Huong’s most iconic achievement, however, lies in the dairy industry. In 2008, amidst the Melamine-contaminated milk crisis in China, she envisioned a different path. Her brainchild, TH True MILK, emerged—a brand committed to producing pure, safe, and nutritious milk for Vietnamese consumers. Madam Thai Huong’s determination led her to explore innovative solutions, even though her initial knowledge about dairy was “zero.” She sought out the best technologies worldwide, ensuring that Vietnamese children and families could enjoy wholesome milk.
Recognition and Awards
Thai Huong, often hailed by the media as the “woman with fresh milk,” has garnered significant recognition for her entrepreneurial achievements. She made history as the first Vietnamese woman to win the Gold Award in the “Entrepreneur of the Year” category at the International Business Awards, under the Stevie Awards system. Her influence extends beyond this accolade, as she was listed by Forbes magazine among the 50 most powerful Asian businesswomen for two consecutive years. In 2017, she received the Asian Entrepreneur Award from Enterprise Asia, and in 2018, she was again honored with the Gold Award in the “Entrepreneur of the Year” category, solidifying her status as a pioneer in the business world.
In 2020, Thai Huong was awarded the prestigious title of Labor Hero by the Vietnamese state, recognizing her significant contributions to the nation’s economic development. Her impact was further acknowledged on November 17, 2021, when she was one of six individuals honored at the Vietnam Glory program for her inspiring contributions to nutrition, stature, and the health of the Vietnamese people. In 2022, Forbes once again recognized her influence by listing her among the most influential Asian women over 50. Thai Huong’s journey is a testament to her dedication, vision, and the positive impact she continues to have on society.
The Heart of a Mother and a Visionary
Thai Huong’s unwavering commitment to health and well-being shines through. She once said, “I don’t want my fellow countrymen to suffer needlessly. Milk is essential for physical development, and I won’t settle for mediocrity.” Her relentless pursuit of excellence transformed TH True Milk into a household name, providing nourishment and hope.
Madam Thai Huong’s journey—from financial officer to dairy revolutionary to banking leader—is a testament to resilience, vision, and the power of unwavering determination. As she continues to shape Vietnam’s business landscape, we can’t help but admire her tenacity and commitment to making a difference.
