CEO Insights Magazine

Industry leaders in China epitomize resilience and innovation, navigating dynamic landscapes with strategic acumen. Their visionary leadership propels sectors forward, driving economic growth and global influence. Fostering a culture of adaptability and continuous learning, these leaders pioneer advancements in technology, finance, and manufacturing, shaping the nation's trajectory on the world stage.

Xiang is one such accomplished leader serving as the Managing Director at Huajuchen Group, a renowned organization dedicated to promoting tea culture and hosting tea-related events globally. With a rich history of spearheading impactful initiatives such as the Global Tea Fair Xi’an and the Shenzhen Tea Expo, Xiang is committed to positioning Huajuchen Group as a respected entity in international markets. Leveraging a wealth of experience and strategic acumen, Xiang drives the company towards achieving its mission with invaluable insights on adaptability, continuous learning, and dedication. In an exclusive interaction with CEO Insights Asia, Xiang sheds light on his leadership traits and the ethos of Huajuchen Group.

Could you walk us through your professional journey and what drives you today?

Throughout my professional journey, my ambition to become an entrepreneur and a CEO has been a driving force. This aspiration took root during my college years when I worked part-time in sales. Experiencing success in sales early on instilled in me a sense of fulfillment and purpose. It became evident that this path not only aligned with my career goals but also fueled my motivation to strive for leadership roles in the future.

Share with us your academic experience at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. What did you learn from the campus beyond academics?

My time at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology was not only enriching academically but also invaluable in terms of personal growth. Interacting with classmates from diverse backgrounds—finance, management, and technology—provided me with a wealth of knowledge beyond textbooks. Coming from a sales background, I gained insights into different perspectives and approaches to problem-solving. Moreover, the international mix of students from Europe, America, and India enhanced my cultural understanding and taught me the importance of effective communication and collaboration across borders. These experiences, beyond academics, were instrumental in shaping my holistic development.

Please define Huajuchen Group as an organization and its current position in the market.

Huajuchen Group holds a distinguished position in the realm of promoting tea culture and orchestrating tea-related events, boasting a rich history of impactful endeavors. Among its notable initiatives is the Global Tea Fair Xi'an, an event organized by the Huajuchen Group that unfolded at the Xi’an Qujiang International Convention and Exhibition Center. This fair not only showcased the cultural heritage of Xi’an but also celebrated the richness of the Chinese tea industry. Drawing over 100,000 participants, the event offered a platform to explore a diverse array of teas and utensils, with a focus on showcasing the finest teas from western China. Spanning an impressive 50,000 square meters, the exhibition featured 2,400 international standard booths and welcomed the participation of 800 well-known domestic and foreign enterprises. Additionally, the Silk Road Shaanxi Tea Exhibition Hall, covering 10,000 square meters, served as a testament to the achievements of Shaanxi Tea and aimed to amplify its influence on a global scale. Another noteworthy endeavor by Huajuchen is the Shenzhen Tea Expo, which has been an annual fixture since 2008 and has expanded to encompass 21 scheduled events across China in 2024.

Tell us about your leadership approach. What are the guidelines or methodologies you follow as a leader?

My leadership approach is grounded in several key principles. Firstly, I prioritize our mission, which serves as the compass guiding our company's endeavors. Our mission to assist over a million individuals in discovering quality tea and connecting them with reputable suppliers underpins every decision we make. Secondly, I firmly believe in respecting and empowering talented individuals within our organization. Providing a supportive environment where employees feel valued, receive competitive compensation, and have opportunities for career growth is paramount. Lastly, I continuously strive to enhance my leadership skills and knowledge, recognizing that effective leadership is an ongoing journey of learning and development. By adhering to these guidelines, I aim to foster a culture of excellence, collaboration, and innovation within our team.

What is the future destination you look forward to? What would be your advice to budding industry leaders?

My ultimate goal is to establish our company as a respected player in international markets. To aspiring industry leaders, my advice is threefold: adapt to change, prioritize continuous learning, and maintain unwavering dedication while fostering self-confidence. Embracing these principles can pave the path to success in a dynamic and competitive business landscape.

Xiang, Managing Director, Huajuchen Group

Xiang is a dynamic leader renowned for his strategic vision and commitment to innovation. He champions innovation and excellence, steering the organization to prominence in the competitive tea industry. His visionary leadership and dedication to ethical business practices position him as a respected figure in both the industry and the wider business community.