#China #Qingdao #Haier #Zhang Ruimin #RenDanHeYi

Haier's Zero Distance Excellence Journey

Zhang Ruimin, the eminent founder of Haier and current Chairman Emeritus, embarked on a significant journey across Italy and San Marino from July 28 to 30. This initiative, named the "Zero Distance Excellence Journey," aimed to elevate organizational innovation and champion a human-centric transformation within companies. This remarkable undertaking is part of a broader movement to enhance empowerment and dismantle traditional hierarchies through a management philosophy known as RenDanHeYi.

Engaging with European Leaders

At the core of this initiative were workshops focused on the RenDanHeYi model, which emphasizes self-directed individuals, self-organized teams, and self-evolving ecosystems. During these workshops, Zhang shared his insights with senior executives from leading European enterprises, delving into how organizational innovation could unlock human potential alongside corporate value. This captivating exchange aimed to inspire a paradigm shift in management strategies, moving away from outdated models towards more collaborative and flexible approaches.

The initiative is a collaboration between the Haier Model Institute and the Business Ecosystem Alliance, gaining support from the RenDanHeYi Italy Research Center. The journey commenced at Var Group in Milan, followed by visits to Gummy Industries in Brescia and ASA Group in San Marino—three firms actively exploring the implementation of the RenDanHeYi model in a European context.

Honors in San Marino

In San Marino, Zhang was greeted by the Captains Regent of the country, Denise Bronzetti and Italo Righi, marking the significance of this journey. He was honored with the prestigious Order of Saint Agatha, lauding his exceptional contributions to human-centered management alongside global organizational innovation. This accolade reflects the far-reaching influence of Zhang's vision in reshaping corporate culture and practices.

An Organizational Evolution Plan in the Digital Era

Initially presented by Zhang in 2005, the RenDanHeYi framework pivots on empowering individuals and maximizing user value, thereby disassembling traditional hierarchies. During his visit, Zhang emphasized that the RenDanHeYi philosophy resonates deeply with humanist ideals. He pointed out that the primary goal for any organization should be to enable individuals to unlock their potential while nurturing their dignity and worth.

This journey also attracted notable scholars such as Bill Fischer from IMD, Stuart Crainer of Thinkers50, and Umberto Lago from the University of Bologna, all engaging in deep discussions on the future of organizational ecosystems. Their participation highlights the academic backing of Zhang's revolutionary ideas, fostering a rich environment for dialogue between strategies and execution.

European Companies Embrace RenDanHeYi

The Var Group, a major digital services provider with an annual revenue exceeding 800 million euros, has embraced the RenDanHeYi model, disrupting traditional silos through a model of "platform + micro-enterprise." Francesca Moriani, the CEO, noted a significant increase in employee engagement and a repositioning of Var Group, transforming it into an innovative strategic partner.

Gummy Industries, an Italian firm specializing in digital marketing, began its transformation process in 2022. Within six months, it revamped its operations by creating eight micro-enterprises—referred to as "kitchens"—and launching a resource-sharing platform called the "producers' market." The increase in new product launches has surpassed those of the past seven years combined, demonstrating the efficacy of the RenDanHeYi framework in fostering innovation.

Similarly, ASA Group, a family-owned enterprise specializing in metal packaging, implemented reforms resulting in substantial revenues through collaborations and innovative practices. CEO Francesco Amati positioned RenDanHeYi as a bold framework highlighting the importance of human values in business transformations.

Stuart Crainer remarked that these companies are cultivating a global community grounded in the principles of zero distance and the RenDanHeYi model, urging more organizations to partake in this movement to shape the future of organizational ecosystems.

Denise Bronzetti noted Zhang's vision significantly contributes toward a world where every individual has the opportunity to realize their value and unleash their entrepreneurial potential, reinforcing the essence of this transformative journey.

About Zhang Ruimin

Zhang Ruimin’s legacy extends beyond Haier; he is seen as a global thought leader in organizational design and post-bureaucratic business models. His strategic vision has propelled Haier from a regional appliance manufacturer to a leader in the global IoT ecosystem. Recognized globally, he received the Thinkers50 Award for his lifetime achievements, a testament to his role in reshaping management philosophy across the globe.

About Haier Group

Founded in 1984, Haier Group stands as a world leader in solutions for better living and digital transformation. Guided by the ethos of “More Creation, More Possibilities,” Haier resolves to collaborate with users for infinite possibilities and industrial development. With a presence in nearly 200 countries and a workforce exceeding 130,000, Haier consistently ranks as a top global appliance brand, emphasizing its commitment to intelligent living ecosystems, healthcare innovations, and the digital economy.