Nan Fang Du Shi Bao·2025-08-01 10:27Core Viewpoint - The Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKEX) has appointed Zhang Yong, former chairman of Alibaba Group, as a new member of its China Business Advisory Committee, enhancing the committee's expertise in Chinese markets and financial systems [1][3]. Group 1: Appointment Details - Zhang Yong's appointment increases the committee's membership to nine, with Zhang Yichen, CEO of CITIC Capital Holdings, serving as the chairman [3]. - The China Business Advisory Committee was established in 2021 to provide insights to the HKEX board from seasoned industry experts familiar with the Chinese market [3]. Group 2: Zhang Yong's Background - Zhang Yong, aged 53, graduated from Shanghai University of Finance and Economics in 1995 and has worked at Andersen and PwC before joining Alibaba [4]. - He joined Alibaba in 2007 and held several key positions, including CFO of Taobao, General Manager of Tmall, COO of Alibaba Group, and Chairman of Cainiao Network [4][5]. - Zhang served as CEO of Alibaba Group from 2015 and became chairman in 2019, stepping down in 2023 [5]. Group 3: Achievements and Recognition - During his 16 years at Alibaba, Zhang Yong was instrumental in creating the "Double Eleven" shopping festival and driving the digital transformation of brand enterprises [5]. - Upon his retirement, Alibaba honored him with the title of "Meritorious Alibaba Person" and pledged to invest $1 billion to support his future technology fund [5].