Chinese restaurant brand Super Hi International Holding has appointed Yang Lijuan as its new CEO and executive director.
Lijuan, who began her career with Haidilao as a waitress in 1995, has steadily climbed the ranks, holding managerial and directorial positions within the organisation.
Her appointment follows the resignation of the former CEO, Li Yu, who will continue to contribute to the company as a senior regional manager and executive director.
The newly announced reshuffle in the company’s executive leadership and board composition is effective from 1 July 2024.
Wang Jinping, the outgoing chief operating officer and executive director, will depart from his current roles to concentrate on new business incubation for Super Hi.
His resignation is also set for 1 July 2024.
Lijuan's experience with Haidilao International, including her leadership during the pandemic, saw the company rebound from losses to a net profit of 4.495bn yuan ($618.96m) in 2023.
The board of directors will undergo a reconstitution following these changes.
From 1 July, the board will comprise four directors: Shu Ping, Yang Lijuan, Li Yu and Liu Li, alongside three independent directors: Tan Kang Uei, Teo Ser Luck and Lien Jown Jing.
This restructured board aims to guide Super Hi International Holding through its next phase of growth and development.
Super Hi chair and non-executive director Shu Ping said: “The board is delighted to appoint Yang as Super Hi’s new CEO.
“Her proven track record, including navigating Haidilao International Holding through the challenges of the pandemic and over 27 years of experience in restaurant operations and management of Haidilao International, makes her the ideal candidate for this role.
"Yang led the overseas expansion of the Haidilao brand, successfully establishing a presence in Singapore and the United States in 2012 and 2013 respectively, laying the foundation for the group's current operations in the international market.”
