PHILIPPINES – In a significant leadership change, Honor Device Co. Ltd. announced on January 17, 2025, that CEO George Zhao has resigned due to personal reasons. Zhao, who led Honor since its 2020 spin-off from Huawei, played a pivotal role in expanding the company’s global presence and focusing on high-end devices, including foldable smartphones.
The Board of Directors has appointed Jian Li, a former Huawei executive with over 20 years of experience in the mobile communications industry, as the new CEO. Li joined Honor in 2021 and has held multiple leadership positions, including Vice Chairman and Director. His extensive experience is expected to guide Honor through its next phase of growth and development.
This leadership transition comes as Honor prepares for an initial public offering (IPO), first announced in 2023. The company aims to maintain stability and continue its momentum toward a public offering under Li’s leadership.
In an internal memo, Zhao mentioned health reasons for his departure, expressing a desire to rest, recover, and spend more time with his family. He described the decision as “the most difficult” he has ever made.
The Philippines, being a significant market for smartphones, may experience the impact of new strategies and product offerings under Li’s direction. As Honor continues to innovate and expand, Filipino users can look forward to potential advancements in smartphone technology and services.
What are your thoughts on this leadership change at Honor? How do you think it will affect the smartphone market in the Philippines? Share your opinions in the comments below.