Vivian Kao stands as a remarkable figure in the world of business, combining professional success, a deep commitment to education, and a powerful philanthropic presence. As the wife of Shou Zi Chew, CEO of TikTok, Kao has quietly and steadfastly built her own legacy, showcasing not only her exceptional career but also her ability to maintain a balanced family life. With an impressive academic background, an extensive career in finance, and a passion for charitable causes, Kao’s influence extends beyond her public appearances.
In this article, we explore the life, achievements, and contributions of Vivian Kao, offering a detailed profile of the woman behind one of the most powerful men in tech.
Vivian Kao Early Life and Education
Born in 1984 in Virginia, USA, Vivian Alexa Kao was raised by Taiwanese immigrant parents who emphasized the importance of education. From an early age, Kao was encouraged to excel academically, a value that shaped her future endeavors.
Kao attended Wellesley College, one of the top women’s colleges in the United States, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Chinese Studies in 2004. Her time at Wellesley exposed her to global perspectives and honed her analytical and leadership skills, setting the stage for her later accomplishments.
Her quest for further education led her to Harvard Business School, where she pursued an MBA, graduating in 2010. It was during this time that she crossed paths with Shou Zi Chew, a relationship that would go on to shape both their personal and professional lives. At Harvard, Kao refined her business acumen and learned the art of entrepreneurship, skills she would later apply to her career.
Vivian Kao Career in Finance and Investment
Vivian Kao’s career trajectory has been marked by leadership roles in prominent financial institutions and tech startups. After completing her studies, she began her career at Goldman Sachs in New York, working as an associate from 2004 to 2008. Here, Kao developed her skills in financial analysis and investment strategies, key areas that would influence her later ventures.
In 2009, she took on an internship as the Chief Financial Officer at Better Place, a clean energy startup in Palo Alto, California. This experience broadened her knowledge of the emerging technology sector and further refined her leadership abilities. It also provided a stepping stone into the world of tech, where she would later make significant strides.
From 2011 to 2012, Kao worked as the General Manager for Chope, a restaurant reservation platform in Singapore and Hong Kong. During this time, she honed her skills in business development, focusing on scaling businesses in the rapidly growing digital and mobile industries.
In 2013, Kao joined WeLab, a fintech company based in Hong Kong, as Chief Growth Officer. In this role, she was instrumental in the company’s expansion, playing a crucial part in its rise as one of the most successful fintech startups in Asia.
Today, Kao serves as the CEO of Tamarind Global, a family office that manages investments and philanthropic initiatives for wealthy families in Singapore. She is also an Independent Non-Executive Director at Sun Hung Kai & Co. Ltd., a leading investment firm in Hong Kong. Additionally, Kao serves on the Board of Trustees at her alma mater, Wellesley College, where she continues to support women’s education and leadership.
A Family-Oriented Woman: Vivian Kao Life with Shou Zi Chew
While Vivian Kao’s professional life is impressive, her family life is just as fulfilling. She met Shou Zi Chew while both were pursuing their MBAs at Harvard Business School in 2008. The couple quickly formed a bond, and their relationship flourished. They married shortly after meeting and now have three children together.
The couple’s family life is a cornerstone of their personal and professional success. Despite the demands of their careers Chew as the CEO of TikTok and Kao as a business leader—the couple prioritizes their children and strives for balance. They currently reside in Singapore, where they have made their home after living in various cities across the globe, including Hong Kong and London.
Kao’s role as a mother has not only shaped her personal life but has also influenced her career trajectory, pushing her to be more mindful of her work-life balance and her ability to make a positive impact both at home and in her professional sphere.
Public Appearances and Media Attention
Although Vivian Kao prefers to maintain a relatively private life, she frequently appears at high-profile events alongside her husband. Their joint appearances often capture the public’s attention, particularly when they attend events such as the Met Gala.
In 2024, Kao and Chew attended the Met Gala, an event known for its glamour and exclusivity. Their presence at the gala, where Chew served as an honorary chair, reinforced their status as influential figures in both the business and social spheres. Kao’s elegant style and grace in the public eye have further solidified her position as a leading figure in both her personal and professional worlds.
Philanthropy and Commitment to Education
Vivian Kao’s commitment to giving back extends far beyond her professional success. She has always been passionate about education, a value instilled in her from a young age. As part of her philanthropic efforts, Kao serves on the Board of Trustees at Wellesley College, where she plays a key role in supporting initiatives that empower women through education.
Her leadership at Tamarind Global also reflects her commitment to philanthropic endeavors. The company not only manages investments but also works on projects that support various charitable causes. Kao’s ability to balance her professional responsibilities with her philanthropic interests highlights her dedication to improving the lives of others.
Vivian Kao in the Public Eye
Despite her high-profile relationship with Shou Zi Chew, Vivian Kao has managed to maintain a level of privacy. She is often recognized as a supportive and intelligent partner to Chew, who has become one of the most influential figures in tech. Kao’s understated elegance and poise, combined with her remarkable professional achievements, have garnered attention from the media, who frequently highlight her as an accomplished businesswoman in her own right.
Her appearances at events like the Met Gala, where she and Chew have been photographed together, bring attention to her status as both a business leader and a cultural figure. Though she maintains a relatively low-key lifestyle, her influence and impact continue to grow.
Conclusion
Vivian Kao is a woman of many talents. From her impressive education at prestigious institutions like Wellesley College and Harvard Business School to her leadership roles in global finance and tech companies, Kao has proven time and again that she is a force to be reckoned with. Her commitment to her family, education, and philanthropic causes further underscores her multifaceted legacy.
As the wife of TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew, Kao stands as an influential figure in her own right. While she may not always seek the spotlight, her contributions to business, education, and charity are undeniable. Vivian Kao’s story is one of dedication, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to balancing personal fulfillment with professional success.
As she continues to lead in both her personal and professional spheres, Vivian Kao remains a true role model for future generations of women who aspire to excel in all aspects of life.