#China #Shanghai #Yum China #Zhe Wei #Dual Focus

Yum China Expands Board with New Appointment

Yum China Holdings, Inc., the largest restaurant chain in the country, has recently announced a significant expansion of its Board of Directors with the appointment of Mr. Zhe (David) Wei. This decision will take effect on August 6, 2025, and marks a strategic move as the board increases its size to 13 members, comprised of 11 independent directors.

The Chairman of Yum China, Dr. Fred Hu, expressed his enthusiasm for Mr. Wei's induction, highlighting his profound insights into both global and Chinese consumer markets. Dr. Hu noted Mr. Wei’s extensive background in digital and e-commerce, underscoring the value he could add to the company’s strategic vision.

Joey Wat, CEO of Yum China, joined in welcoming Mr. Wei, stating, “His extensive expertise in the consumer industry and digital will add immense value as we advance our dual focus on operational efficiency and innovation.” Wat emphasized that this appointment aligns perfectly with Yum China’s commitment to enhancing shareholder value through sustainable practices.

About Zhe Wei

Mr. Wei is not just a notable figure in Yum China's boardroom; he has a commendable track record in various leadership positions throughout his career. He is the founding partner and chairman of Vision Knight Capital, a private equity firm that specializes in the Chinese market. Moreover, his experience includes a tenure as the Executive Director and CEO of Alibaba.com from 2007 to 2011, where he played a crucial role in leading one of the world's most significant e-commerce platforms.

Between 2002 and 2006, Mr. Wei held multiple positions in BQ (China) Co., Ltd., contributing to the company's strategic direction as its president and later as the chief financial officer. His earlier career saw him navigating the investment banking sector, notably at Orient Securities Company and Coopers Lybrand, which further enriched his financial acumen.

Mr. Wei currently serves as a non-executive director for several prominent companies, including PCCW Ltd. and Sansure Biotech Co., Ltd., which illustrates his continued relevance and influence in the corporate world. He holds a Bachelor's degree in International Business Management from Shanghai International Studies University.

Yum China's Mission

Yum China is on the forefront of revolutionizing the dining experience across China, with operations exceeding 16,000 restaurants in over 2,400 cities. The company operates well-known brands such as KFC and Pizza Hut, which lead the market in quick-service and casual dining, respectively. Through its collaboration with Lavazza, Yum China is also venturing into the coffee market, aiming to diversify its offerings.

The company emphasizes its advanced supply chain management and technological capabilities, including a robust digital infrastructure designed to enhance customer experiences and streamline services.

In conclusion, the integration of Mr. Wei into Yum China's leadership signals a forward-thinking approach as the company prioritizes digital innovation and operational excellence. With seasoned leaders like him on board, Yum China is positioned to navigate the complexities of the restaurant industry and continue to fulfill its mission of making “every life taste beautiful.”

As Yum China looks towards the future, the collaboration among its experienced directors will likely catalyze new growth opportunities and strengthen its commitment to sustainability and consumer satisfaction.