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Chau Mai

Associate Director, Vietnam
Chau brings over a decade of experience in the international education sector, having held diverse roles spanning academics, operations, and international recruitment. In her role as Associate Director, Vietnam at Grok, she works closely with local leadership to oversee business operations, collaborates cross-functionally to build comprehensive support systems for staff, and drives external engagement with agencies, schools, higher education institutions, and government partners. Before joining the management team at Grok, Chau spent six years as a Senior Program Officer supporting Canadian universities — first at Queen’s University and then at York University — in Southeast Asia’s international student recruitment. She has a strong track record in building sustainable recruitment practices and fostering meaningful connections with local stakeholders, a passion she continues to pursue in her current role.

When did you join Grok?
January 2019

Describe yourself in three words.
Resilient, Adaptable, Driven

What were you doing before working at Grok?
I was a guest lecturer at MIT Vietnam University, and then worked as Business Coordinator at ISMART (part of the EQUEST Education Group), where I supported the CEO with operations and cross-functional coordination.

What was your first job (in education or otherwise)?
Data analyst- and I didn’t realize how cool that sounded at the time! I got the job before I graduated, back when e-commerce was just beginning to emerge in Vietnam, so I’m still pretty proud of that.

What does international education mean for you?
International education changed my life. As someone who studied abroad myself, I’ve seen firsthand how transformative it can be. Students today have access to many more opportunities than I did, and it’s inspiring to see how international education continues to shape the next generation in Vietnam.

What is one of the most satisfying professional outcomes you’ve achieved?
The relationships and learning experiences I’ve gained. Looking back at my journey in international education, I am deeply grateful for the people I’ve met and the growth I’ve experienced — those intangible impacts matter most to me.

What is your favorite book or movie?
Finding the Dragon Lady: The Mystery of Vietnam’s Madame Nhu is a biography by Monique Brinson Demery about Madame Nhu (Trần Lệ Xuân), the de facto First Lady of South Vietnam from 1955–1963. The book explores her life, influence, and the complex social and political landscape of Vietnam during that period, which deepened my curiosity about Vietnam’s history.

What is your dream travel destination? Why?
Switzerland and Austria. I’ve always dreamed of exploring Europe’s rich culture and stunning architecture. It’s been delayed for a while, but I’m determined to make it happen soon.

What is your favorite food to eat with friends?
Besides Vietnamese hot pot and snails, I always enjoy Japanese sushi and sashimi.

What is something you’ve learned from somebody inspirational?
Self-awareness and compassion. I’ve been fortunate to work with many talented and empathetic leaders who demonstrated the importance of being mindful of how our actions affect others.

What was your favourite subject at high school or university?
Mathematics — solving complex problems gave me a great sense of accomplishment when I was in high school.

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