HONOR has confirmed that its CEO and Director, George Zhao, has stepped down due to personal reasons. “The company and the Board of Directors sincerely appreciate Mr. Zhao’s outstanding contributions to the company during his tenure,” HONOR stated in an official announcement.
Jian Li, who joined HONOR in 2021 following a 20-year career at HUAWEI, will assume the role of the new CEO. HONOR emphasized, “Under the leadership of the board and management team, the company will continue to deliver innovative products and experiences to consumers worldwide.”
Zhao, who has been with HONOR since its separation from HUAWEI in 2020, described his decision to resign as “the most difficult” he has ever made. His departure marks a pivotal moment in the company’s history, though Honor reassures that it remains committed to its mission under new leadership.
This leadership change arrives at a crucial time as Honor Device Co. Ltd. prepares for its initial public offering (IPO). The company transitioned into a joint-stock limited company last month, a strategic move to restructure its shareholding in preparation for the IPO, with no impact on its daily operations.
Jian Li’s new role will focus on driving HONOR’s expansion into international markets. The company has ambitious plans to strengthen its presence overseas and solidify its position in the premium smartphone segment, having recently launched the HONOR Magic7 Pro and PORSCHE DESIGN HONOR Magic7 RSR globally.
