On March 21, Zhou Yunjie, a key figure at Haier Group, made his official social media debut. His recent appearance alongside Xiaomi’s Lei Jun on the "Two Sessions" representatives' walkway had already captured public attention, unexpectedly turning him into an online sensation. The overwhelming response from netizens even spurred calls for him to establish his own social media presence.

In his Weibo post, Zhou reflected that the true value of his sudden fame lies not in personal recognition but in the spotlight it has cast on Haier, bringing the brand closer to consumers. A loyal Haier veteran of 37 years since graduating from Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Zhou has been an integral part of Haier’s evolution—from a fledgling refrigerator manufacturer to a global ecological enterprise. This growth, he noted, mirrors the confident ascent of Chinese brands onto the world stage.

Many believe Zhou’s rise to prominence is not just a testament to his personal competence but also a reflection of public appreciation for the values of Chinese brands and their admiration for grounded, pragmatic entrepreneurs. Zhou emphasized that his foray into platforms like Douyin, WeChat Channels, Weibo, and Xiaohongshu is not about cultivating a personal brand but about ensuring Haier remains attuned to the new era, collaborating with users to shape the brand’s future.

Amid the fleeting nature of online fame, Zhou remains measured and forward-looking. He identifies artificial intelligence as a pivotal opportunity for Chinese enterprises, envisioning a shift from "Made in China" to "Intelligently Made in China," with Chinese brands earning global acclaim. With 120,000 Haier employees committed to listening to public feedback, Haier’s products and services are on a relentless journey of improvement and innovation.