CEO Insights Magazine

In the current fast-changing marketplace, where business and consumer demands and trends keep evolving constantly, China is strikingly making waves and growing fast possessing a business-friendly language culture. Chief Marketing Officers in China are to be significantly awarded for the noteworthy leadership skills that they leveraged to guide their organizations (amidst significant industries) towards growth as the change agent understanding and analyzing the marketing trends.

Jolene Shang, CMO of Zendure, one of the fastestgrowing EnergyTech start-ups, is one such recognized name in the industry in China that’s acting as the driving force behind the sustainable and long-term success of Zendure’s business.

To know more, read through the excerpts of an exclusive interaction between Jolene and CEO Insights ASIA magazine.

Could you give a brief account of your professional background and experiences? What is the motivation that fuels your daily routines?
Before joining Zendure as the Chief Marketing Officer, I gained experience across a wide variety of industries within global communications, including public relations, entertainment marketing, retail marketing, and sports marketing. I started my career as a Financial TV reporter for China Business Network; the Global PR Head as well as the Senior Director of Global Communications at TCL; the China Representative of UNESCO CENTER FOR PEACE; and the Director of Global Affairs at USFUCA. My daily routine is fueled by my passion for applying strategic thinking to develop successful marketing initiatives that resonate with the target audience, building brand awareness and recognition, and ultimately creating a globally recognizable Chinese brand.

How would you define Zendure as an organization and its position in the market? What is the unique proposition that your organization offers to clients?
Since its founding in 2017, Zendure has been one of the fastest-growing EnergyTech start-ups located in the technology hubs of Silicon Valley, USA, and the Greater Bay Area, China, Japan, and Germany. Our purpose is to accelerate a more sustainable future, and our mission is to deliver reliable and affordable clean energy for households worldwide by popularizing the latest EnergyTech. We envision being a Clean Energy Tech platform that sustains communities and families across the globe.

As a relatively young company, Zendure has already made significant strides in the clean energy industry, offering consumers access to the latest technology and true energy independence in the form of an innovative lineup of power storage products. We pay attention to every design detail, including accessories, components, and materials. This level of control allows us to create superior products that work seamlessly together, and as a result, we have earned multiple international awards for industrial design, specifically for our multifunctional IoT home energy storage solutions and portable power supplies.

As the CMO, what are the latest strategic plans you have adopted to expand/ optimize operations and engage new market audiences?
One effective strategy for expanding operations is to diversify the product and service offerings. This could mean introducing new products or services that complement the existing ones or expanding into new markets or geographic regions. Another strategy is to optimize operations by improving internal processes and systems to increase efficiency and reduce costs. This can involve investing in new technology, streamlining workflows, and implementing performance metrics and feedback loops.

To engage new audiences in the market, it is important to understand their preferences and needs, and tailor marketing strategies accordingly. This could include targeting specific demographics through social media campaigns, influencer marketing, or other targeted advertising methods. Ultimately, the specific strategic plan adopted will depend on various factors such as the industry, company goals, and current market conditions.

Tell us about your leadership approach. What are the guidelines or methodologies you follow as a leader?
There are numerous. First, I work with the team to develop a clear and concise vision for the company's marketing efforts, as well as a strategic plan for achieving that vision. I strive to lead by example by being accountable, communicating effectively, and demonstrating a commitment to excellence. I focus on building a team of talented professionals who are committed to the company's goals and values by constantly training and developing employees to help them achieve their full potential. Marketing is a team effort, so it's important to foster a collaborative culture where everyone feels comfortable sharing ideas and working together to achieve common goals. Also, I emphasize staying up-to-date with industry trends.

What is the future destination you are heading towards?
In order to realize our vision of revolutionizing the clean energy storage landscape, Zendure is revitalizing our corporate and business strategies to align with what consumers need the most. We are focusing on pushing the boundaries of innovation in energy storage technology and providing the most technologically advanced solutions  all of which are much needed to address the global issues of unreliable energy access, overstrained energy grids, and a changing climate. We are also embedding Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles throughout our operations to work toward our goal of being a responsible corporate citizen and creating shared value while minimizing our environmental impact.

Any advice for budding industry leaders?
Always be learning and staying up-to-date with the latest developments in the industry. Communication skills are extremely important for any leader, so clearly articulate your vision and goals, as well as listen to and address the concerns of others. Don't be afraid to take risks and try new things. Innovation is key to success in any industry, and being willing to take calculated risks can lead to great rewards. Always lead by example, i.e., model the kind of work ethic and values that you want to see in your organization.

Jolene Shang, CMO Zendure
Having earned her master’s degree in banking, corporate, finance, and securities law from China University of Political Science and Law, and currently pursuing a degree from Harvard in International Relations, she is an accomplished leader and marketing professional with experience across a wide variety of industries within global communications, notably as the Global PR Head as well as the Senior Director of Global Communications at TCL; the China Representative of UNESCO CENTER FOR PEACE; and the Director of Global Affairs at USFUCA. At present, she is driving the company's marketing strategies and brand development across the globe as the Chief Marketing Officer at Zendure.

• Hobbies: Photography, Culinary Art, Interior Design & Travelling.
• Favorite Cuisine: I enjoy Japanese and Fusion food (particularly fusions of Asian and Western cuisine)
• Favorite Book: Preferably interior design books.
 •Favourite Travel Destination: Capri, an island in Italy, while Prague from the Czech Republic is a close second.