The China-based company, Honor, changed their leadership for the first time since their separation from Huawei Technologies. George Zhao stepped down as the company’s Chief Executive Officer. He resigned for personal reasons after the company denied the departure rumors. Li Jian has been appointed as the new Honor CEO.
Rise of Honor
Honor was established in 2015 as a subsidiary brand under Huawei Technologies. The company was sold in 2020. Zhao continued with the company after the split. In 2024, Honor was ranked fifth in the Chinese smartphone market after OPPO, Vivo, Huawei, and Apple. Moreover, the company had 15% of the Chinese smartphone market share and shipped over 42.2 million smartphones, tying Apple and OPPO. Furthermore, Honor is also set to enter the Indonesian market by 2025, indicating business growth and global expansion.
Contribution of George Zhao
Zhao joined Huawei Technologies in 1998; his contribution played a huge role in establishing Honor. Honor was launched in 2011 under Huawei Technologies as a subbrand. Zhao was promoted as the President of Honor in 2015. However, Huawei decided to sell Honor as the US cut chip supply, and the company faced external pressures in 2020.
Zhao decided to lead the company. Under his leadership, Honor’s business growth spiked in the domestic market. By 2022, the company made a significant reputation in the Chinese smartphone market.
New Honor CEO: Li Jian
After leading Honor and building a brand reputation in the domestic market, George Zhao decided to step down and bring in new leadership. Li Jian, the Honor CEO, brings expertise in the international market and creates impactful business strategies. previously, he was the Vice Chairman and Head of Human Resources in Honor when he joined in 2021. Under his leadership, Honor will enter the next chapter filled with growth.
In August 2024, Honor announced its initial public offering (IPO). By public listing, the company aimed to strengthen its capital and enhance its strategic ambitions. Zhao’s resignation marks the end of one of the most inspiring chapters of Honor. Although, he expressed that he wants to focus more on his health and personal well-being at the moment. Furthermore, he wishes the company success and growth in the future. Li Zian will head the company with fresh opportunities and expand the brand globally.
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