Thurane (Christopher) Aung, 38, is a business leader who has transformed his family enterprise into a dynamic force in Myanmar’s corporate landscape. A graduate of the University of Westminster, United Kingdom, with a degree in Business Information Management and Finance (Honors), Thurane began his career by joining his family’s business. Though he initially faced challenges as a fresh graduate, his exposure to corporate finance and management provided a solid foundation for taking the company to new heights.
A Legacy of Leadership
Inspired by his parents, Thurane learned the nuances of strategic thinking and negotiation from his father, while his mother instilled in him the value of consistency. Guided by the Group’s motto, “To do and make possible,” he dedicates time to deepening his understanding of the company’s products and processes, constantly seeking innovative ways to enhance operations.
As the driving force behind Dagon Group, Thurane envisions the company as a leading diversified conglomerate committed to responsible business practices that contribute to societal advancement. His mission extends beyond corporate success—he actively mentors young entrepreneurs, empowering them with the knowledge, connections, and resources needed to shape Myanmar’s next generation of business leaders.
Transforming Myanmar’s Economic Landscape
Thurane’s influence extends to major national projects. He played a pivotal role in negotiating and implementing the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Myanmar, expanding it to 1,600 acres within five years. His leadership was also instrumental in the Initial Public Offering (IPO) of the holding company of Thilawa SEZ, which was listed on the Yangon Stock Exchange and oversubscribed three times.
Inspired by Sir Richard Branson’s adaptability, Thurane values business agility in today’s fast-moving economic climate. He continuously explores synergies among his businesses, believing that integrated solutions drive sustainable growth. His approach centers on teamwork and human resource empowerment, enabling exponential growth without the need for micromanagement.
The Entrepreneurial Mindset
For Thurane, time is the most valuable asset. He advises aspiring entrepreneurs to pursue ventures they are truly passionate about, ensuring that every moment spent in business feels purposeful. To maximize efficiency, he resolves key work issues early in the day and minimizes downtime when traveling by scheduling engagements during early mornings or late evenings.
Having learned from past experiences, Thurane is committed to elevating business standards in Myanmar. His vision is to empower a new generation of entrepreneurs while leaving a lasting legacy of innovation, leadership, and sustainable growth.
A Workforce Built on Family Values
Raising the family’s business from the socialist days of Myanmar to what it is today, Thurane now leads a workforce of over 2,000 full-time employees. He believes in making employees feel like part of the family, providing job security, ensuring career development, and practicing an open-door policy at all levels—a far cry from the business environment of past decades - Shanggari Balakrishnan, Chief Executive Officer, MORS Group
