Xiaohang Zhou (Skyler)
CITIZENSHIP
China
HINRICH SCHOLARSHIP
University of AucklandAuckland, New Zealand
Master of International Business, Class of 2022
CURRENT EMPLOYMENT
General ManagerShanghai Changing Sempermed Gloves Trading Company, Auckland, New Zealand
“The recognition and generous financial support from the Hinrich Foundation Scholarships has encouraged me to take responsibility, learn, share, and contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future as a global trade leader.”
Scholar background
Skyler is a passionate international trade professional with more than ten years’ experience. She specializes in exporting products from Asia. Currently, she serves as the General Manager at Sempermed Shanghai. In this role, Skyler focuses on aligning operations and strategies to ensure seamless integration within the company’s international network. She manages the sales center and leads the inspection team for all orders sourced from China.
Prior to pursuing her Master's degree at the University of Auckland, Skyler worked as the General Manager at Shanghai ScienzCare, a manufacturer and exporter of disposable gloves for European markets. She spearheaded efforts to explore new markets and coordinated business development activities between the Malaysia, Hong Kong and Shanghai teams. Her prior experience also includes managerial positions such as Sales Supervisor at Shanghai Intco Import & Export and Sales Manager at Lyncmed Medical Technology.
Skyler earned a Bachelor's degree in International Economics and Trade from Hohai University and, as a Hinrich Foundation Scholar, went on to obtain a Master's degree in International Business from the University of Auckland.
Personal statement
My career has been all about international business. I have worked at manufacturing and export companies as a merchandiser, sales specialist, and sales manager. My last position was as the General Manager at a multinational company with shareholders in Malaysia, Singapore, and China. In 2018, I helped establish a new brand in Germany which involved opening a local office and developing European distribution channels. Over the past nine years I have visited more than 150 customers in 26 countries. Having been able to work at every stage along the global supply chain has given me a global perspective.
It is my dream to become a successful leader in global trade. With the support of the Hinrich Foundation Global Leader Scholarship, I can continue to broaden my vision by studying for my master’s degree at the University of Auckland. Sustainability is not only about climate change and the environment, but also directly relates to economic prosperity and the well-being of individuals and society. A combination of practical experience and theoretical education is the best way to improve management skills and sustainable thinking.
I am so grateful and honored to be the recipient of the Hinrich Foundation Global Trade Leader Scholarship. The HF community is composed of trade experts from around the world, and I am ready to learn, share and grow with them!