Leadership is often characterized by vision, innovation, and the ability to bring about meaningful change. In today’s world, leaders who can bridge diverse sectors and promote international collaboration are highly valued. Simon Levy, the Vice President of IDEASIA Investment fund, demonstrates this type of transformative leadership.
As a prominent academic, entrepreneur, and former government official from Mexico, Simon Levy has made a significant impact on public-private infrastructure investments. Recognized for his expertise in the Chinese market for American companies, Simon Levy’s strategic approach and visionary insights have played a crucial role in shaping infrastructure projects that promote economic growth and improve societal well-being. His work serves as a model of how dedicated leadership can drive progress and prosperity on a global scale.
Early Life and Education
The early years of Simon Levy in Mexico City played a significant role in shaping his career. His experience was characterized by a combination of legal expertise, management skills, and international diplomacy. He started his higher education journey at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), where he obtained his Bachelor’s in Law in 2001. This foundational education was complemented by a specialization in Chinese Law at Renmin University of China in 2004. Simon was the first Mexican attorney to secure a work permit in China, highlighting his innovative spirit and commitment to promoting cross-cultural interactions.
Simon Levy’s academic path continued with a Master’s degree in International Management from Instituto Tecnológico Autónomo de México (ITAM) in 2010, followed by an MBA from Tecnológico de Monterrey (EGADE ITESM) in 2012. His thirst for knowledge led him to pursue a Ph.D. in Public-Private Partnerships and Urban Economy from UNAM. Additionally, Simon completed post-doctoral studies at Yale University, the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, and Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government, further enhancing his academic credentials.
Career Highlights
Government Roles
Simon Levy’s government service began when he was appointed the Undersecretary of Tourism for the Mexican government from December 2018 to May 2019. In this role, he significantly shaped Mexico’s tourism infrastructure and policies, utilizing his extensive knowledge of international management and economic development to improve the country’s tourism sector.
Before this, Simon Levy served as the CEO of PROCDMX, an Investment and Development Agency of the Mexico City Government, from December 2012 to December 2018. Under his leadership, PROCDMX raised $650 million for public-private infrastructure investments, showcasing his ability to attract and manage substantial capital for urban development projects. His leadership at PROCDMX demonstrated his expertise in developing collaborative ventures between the public and private sectors—a key aspect of his career.
Entrepreneurship and Leadership
Simon demonstrated his entrepreneurial spirit during his time as Chairman of the Board of Latinasia Group from 2004 to 2011. Latinasia Group was a prominent investment fund focused on promoting economic cooperation between China and Latin America. Simon Levy’s contributions in this role received international recognition, being named a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum (WEF) in 2013, a Global Entrepreneur by the World Entrepreneurship Forum in 2013, and a World Cities Summit Young Leader in 2015.
Currently holding several influential positions, Simon Levy serves as the Chairman of Ideasia Investment Fund and the Manager of the Community Engagement and Outreach Risk Center at the UN Future Forum. In addition, Simon Levy is the Chief Resilience Officer at WAMS, the World Academy of Medical Sciences, and an Executive Board Member at The Global Center for Risk and Innovation. These roles showcase his commitment to advancing global economic strategies and promoting resilience in diverse sectors.
Shaping Global Standards
Simon also serves as the Vice President of Vessel Housing and Chengdong Housing, a Chinese investment group specializing in modular, prefabricated, and automated construction technologies. In this role, he has helped expand the availability of affordable housing across the USA, Mexico, and Europe.
Simon Levy played a key role in the planning, development, and investment of the first Latin American-themed cities in the provinces of China, including Beijing. He was also involved in the expansion of the Velana International Airport project in the Maldives, utilizing modular construction through his investment fund, which contributed to enhancing the airport’s capacity and infrastructure.
In recognition of his work over two decades in fostering collaboration between Mexico and China, Simon Levy was honored in Beijing. Acting on the instructions of President Xi Jinping, Secretary General Wang Maolin presented him with the “Serving the People (我为人民服务)” insignia, acknowledging his contributions to international relations and development projects between the two countries.
Teaching and Research Excellence
Simon Levy has been a professor at UNAM’s Law Faculty since 2006, where he has made significant contributions to the academic community. From 2009 to 2011, he also delivered courses on International Management and Entrepreneurship at Tecnológico de Monterrey. His academic career is characterized by a dedication to both teaching and research, with influential publications in international management, urban development, and economic strategies.
Levy demonstrates his dedication to international relations by establishing the Mexico-China National Professorship at UNAM and founding the first Mexico-China think tank, “Agendasia.” These initiatives underscore his commitment to bridging academic and cultural differences between countries.
Simon, a creative author, has published nine books across various fields, ranging from economic policy to historical novels. Some of Simon Levy’s notable works include:
- Growth Without Debt (Porrua, 2017): Awarded the Economy Book of the Year by the Sociedad Mexicana de Geografía y Estadística.
- Neonao (Plaza y Valdés, 2012): A historical novel showcasing Simon Levy’s versatility as a writer.
- DIÁLOGOS por el porvenir 2022: A forward-looking dialogue on future prospects.
- The Microglobal Age (Plaza y Valdés, Tec de Monterrey, 2007): An exploration of the nuances of the global economy.
- Towards China (ISEF, 2006): A comprehensive analysis of the economic relationship between Mexico and China.
Company Information:
| Website: https://therisk.global |
| Industry: Civic and Social Organizations |
| Company size: 201-500 employees |
| Founded: 2018 |
| Specialties: Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, Cybersecurity, Machine Learning, Robotics, Cognitive Science, Public Policy, Risk Management, Financial Services, Leadership, Innovation, Computer Science, Quantum, and Complexity Science |
