Weizhong Zhu (Wilson) has been appointed Li & Fung COO, tasked with leading operations across the more than 40 countries in which the company sources goods.

As Li & Fung pushes ahead with its digital supply-chain strategy to build the Supply Chain of the Future, Zhu will focus on strengthening the company’s production platforms globally, ensuring consistent KPIs and driving operational excellence to serve its customers better.

A 31-year industry veteran, Zhu brings to the role expertise in international trade relations and supply chain for retail and consumer products. His past roles include chief sourcing and production officer at Gymboree, EVP for private brand and global sourcing at Michaels Stores, VP of private brand and global sourcing at Office Depot, and VP for global sourcing at Hudson’s Bay Company.

Most recently, he co-founded Cooper Aerobics Wellness Center in China, the first fitness and wellness center of its kind on the mainland, and prior to that served as chairman and CEO of inQbrands, where he led the transition of the US subsidiary of China-based Focus Technology into a full-service brand and product agency.

“I’m very pleased to appoint Wilson as Li & Fung COO, the first time we have appointed a senior executive to oversee Li & Fung’s global production network,” said Spencer Fung, CEO. “With the ongoing US-China trade war, Wilson’s leadership comes at a critical time as our customers rely on our scale and expertise to deliver alternative sourcing strategies and mitigate any potential risk in their supply chains. I have no doubt that his leadership, coupled with his strategic and operational thinking and proven ability to deliver results make him the right person for the job.”