Who We Are

Damien Duhamel is a seasoned business leader and strategy consultant with over 25 years of experience in Southeast Asia, specializing in market research, digital transformation, M&A, and growth strategies. He first set up a Market Intelligence firm in Vietnam in 1993 to support the successful entry and growth of multinationals into the country. He sold the firm in 2000.

As the co-founder of a boutique consulting firm with a specific focus on ASEAN, Damien played a pivotal role in advising multinational corporations and regional enterprises on how to navigate the complex business landscapes of Southeast Asian countries. From 2007 to 2022, Damien led the firm’s growth from a small team of four to a 150-strong advisory firm with 13 offices across Asia, including Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, Myanmar, the Philippines, and Malaysia. His leadership extended beyond strategy development; Damien was instrumental in building a deep understanding of regional markets and providing data-driven insights that helped CEOs make critical decisions. Under his guidance, the firm became a trusted partner for companies looking to accelerate growth, particularly in the emerging and rapidly evolving ASEAN markets. He sold the firm in 2018 and co-led Eurogroup’s ASEAN practice.

Damien’s ASEAN experience is unparalleled, having helped companies during crucial periods such as the 2009 financial crisis, when he bet on Asia’s future by expanding operations into Thailand and Indonesia. His firm’s focus on Southeast Asia allowed clients to tap into local insights, benefiting from his deep knowledge of the regulatory and cultural nuances across ASEAN countries. From market entry strategies to operational efficiency and consumer behavior analysis, Damien’s consultancy provided comprehensive solutions tailored to Southeast Asia’s unique business environment. 

Damien holds a Bachelor’s degree in International Trade from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT), an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, and a Master’s degree in Sustainability from Harvard University. He also obtained a Vietnamese Language Certificate from Hanoi University.

Key Areas of Expertise:

• ASEAN Market Research & Strategy Consulting: Offering deep insights into the Southeast Asian market, helping businesses identify growth opportunities and challenges in Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, and beyond.
• M&A Advisory in Southeast Asia: Leading M&A deals by scouting acquisition targets, providing due diligence, and advising on post-merger integration across the ASEAN region.
• Market Entry Strategies: Crafting customized market entry plans for foreign companies looking to expand into ASEAN countries, ensuring alignment with local regulations and business dynamics.
• Operational Efficiency and Growth: Optimizing business operations to achieve sustainable growth, with a specific focus on the challenges and opportunities in ASEAN economies.
• Digital Transformation: Guiding businesses through digital transitions in the fast-growing technology sectors of Southeast Asia.

With a proven track record of helping companies successfully expand into ASEAN, Damien’s vast experience and deep regional knowledge make him an invaluable partner for any company looking to grow in Southeast Asia.