“True leadership lies in empowering others to realise their potential.”
This belief perfectly captures the leadership style of Lynn Dang, the Director of People for the APAC region at Snap Inc. With over two decades of experience from top global firms like IBM, Microsoft, Australia for UNHCR, and now Snap Inc, Lynn stands out as a leader who merges empathy with strategic execution. Through her work, she manages HR operations across Asia’s diverse markets and fosters a people-first culture emphasising well-being, diversity, and inclusion.
Her inspiring personal journey, which began with the challenges of resettling in Australia as a refugee child, shapes her passion for creating workplaces where employees feel empowered to thrive. From crafting innovative HR policies to building strong communities, Lynn brings a human-centred approach to every aspect of her work. Let’s dive deeper into her unique approach and strategies to building more inclusive Asian workforces.
From Refugee to Influential Leader: A Story Rooted in Empathy
Lynn’s early life as a refugee gave her a profound understanding of belonging and the importance of inclusion. These experiences continue to influence her leadership style. “Diversity is not just about bringing people in—it’s about ensuring they feel valued and included,” she shares in interviews, reflecting her core philosophy.
She began her professional journey with Microsoft, where she managed multi-cultural teams across the Asia-Pacific region. Lynn gained valuable experience in navigating complex, fast-paced environments while driving employee engagement. Her expertise in building scalable HR solutions prepared her for higher leadership roles, equipping her with the skills to thrive in industries undergoing digital transformation.
Beyond corporate responsibilities, Lynn is also deeply engaged with social causes. Her role as a board member of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) reflects her commitment to ensuring marginalised communities have access to opportunities and support.
Innovating Workspaces at Snap Inc.: Building Connections, Not Just Careers
At Snap Inc., Lynn’s leadership goes beyond traditional HR practices. She oversees people strategies across Australia, India, China, and Southeast Asia, aligning these with business objectives to drive growth. Her approach is guided by the principle that — “HR is not just about processes; it’s about building meaningful communities within the organisation.”
One of her key achievements has been introducing mental health initiatives and flexible work policies at Snap Inc. These efforts were designed not just to enhance productivity but to foster a work environment where employees feel supported. Lynn also led the implementation of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) frameworks, ensuring that employees from all backgrounds find belonging at Snap.
Lynn’s initiatives have significantly improved employee engagement, reduced turnover, and created a sense of ownership among employees. Her focus on mentorship programs has further contributed to the company’s growth by fostering collaborative learning and development across all levels of the organisation.
Inspiring the Future: Mentorship and Thought Leadership
In addition to her work at Snap Inc., Lynn is an influential voice in HR forums and leadership circles. She actively mentors young professionals and shares her journey through podcasts and conferences. “Keep learning, keep listening, and never stop growing” is one of the principles she emphasises, encouraging the next generation of HR leaders to stay adaptable and open to change.
Lynn’s thought leadership centres on the future of work, where she highlights the importance of balancing technology with human touchpoints. She believes that while data and analytics are critical, empathy and understanding will always be at the heart of effective leadership.
Her reputation as an innovative leader extends beyond Snap Inc. Lynn’s work in reshaping HR practices across the APAC region has positioned her as a role model, inspiring organisations to focus not just on results but on building meaningful relationships within teams.
Conclusion: Shaping the Future of Work with Purpose
Lynn Dang’s story is a powerful example of how empathy, resilience, and strategic thinking can come together to create a lasting impact. As she continues to shape the future of work at Snap Inc., Lynn’s leadership inspires others to prioritise people, not just processes. Her belief that “every great company is built by a community of people who feel they belong” serves as a guiding principle, influencing her efforts both within and beyond the corporate world.
Her journey—from overcoming personal challenges as a refugee to becoming a celebrated HR leader—demonstrates that meaningful leadership is built on authenticity and purpose. Lynn’s work will undoubtedly leave a lasting mark on the evolving HR landscape in Asia, setting new standards for inclusive and sustainable leadership.
