H World Group Limited Expands Board for Strategic Growth
H World Group Limited Welcomes New Board Members
In a significant development for the hospitality sector, H World Group Limited (NASDAQ: HTHT; HKEX: 1179) has announced a change in its board composition, aimed at enhancing its leadership strength and strategic direction. The company appointed two new directors, effective immediately. Mr. Justin Martin Leverenz joins as a director, with Ms. Yi Zhang taking on the role of independent director and chairwoman of the audit committee.
Introducing the New Board Members
Mr. Leverenz comes with a wealth of experience, having served as the Chief Investment Officer and Senior Portfolio Manager at Invesco Developing Markets Fund from 2007 to 2025. His impressive career spans reputable positions in major financial institutions, where he focused on technology research and portfolio management. A Chartered Financial Analyst® (CFA®) charter holder, Mr. Leverenz holds a bachelor's degree from the University of California and a master's degree in international economics.
On the other hand, Ms. Zhang brings a robust background in finance to the board. Currently, she is serving as the Chief Financial Officer of SINA Corporation and has previously held leadership roles at notable companies like Weibo Corporation and AdChina Ltd. With her extensive experience in accounting and financial management, Ms. Zhang is a substantial addition to H World Group, ensuring fiscal responsibility and strategic planning.
Changes in Board Roles
As part of this transition, Ms. Tong Tong Zhao will step down from her role as an independent director to take on the position of observer on the board. Meanwhile, Mr. Jian Shang will also step down as an independent director and the chairman of the audit committee. The founder, Mr. Qi Ji, expressed warm welcomes to the new appointees, emphasizing their potential contributions to the long-term growth of the company. He also conveyed gratitude to the outgoing directors for their dedicated service.
H World Group's Expansion and Future Plans
Originating in China, H World Group Limited operates a diverse portfolio of hotel brands across 19 countries. As of now, the company boasts a broad network of 11,685 hotels with over 1.1 million rooms globally. Brands under H World include HanTing Hotel, JI Hotel, and various others, illustrating the company’s commitment to catering to a wide range of customers.
H World operates multiple business models within the hospitality sector—leasing, ownership, franchising, and manachising. The manachise model allows the company to manage hotels while obtaining fees from franchisees, providing training and support without directly managing operations. Currently, a notable 92% of H World’s hotel rooms operate under this manachise and franchise model, highlighting a strategic focus on partnership and management over ownership.
Commitment to Sustainable Growth
The leadership changes at H World Group signify a proactive approach toward navigating the complexities of the hotel industry and a commitment to sustainable growth. With the vast experience of Mr. Leverenz and Ms. Zhang, the company is well-positioned to tackle emerging challenges and capitalize on new opportunities that the global hospitality market presents.
As H World continues to expand its reach and influence, stakeholders can expect innovative strategies that emphasize quality service, operational efficiency, and sustainable practices across its global operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the recent change in H World Group's board?
H World Group has appointed Mr. Justin Martin Leverenz and Ms. Yi Zhang to its board, enhancing its leadership team.
Who is Justin Martin Leverenz?
Mr. Leverenz is the former Chief Investment Officer at Invesco Developing Markets Fund and brings extensive financial experience to the board.
What role will Yi Zhang serve in H World Group?
Ms. Zhang will be an independent director and the chairwoman of the audit committee, leveraging her financial expertise.
Why are board members stepping down?
Outgoing members Ms. Tong Tong Zhao and Mr. Jian Shang are transitioning to new roles to allow for fresh perspectives and continued governance.
What business models does H World Group employ?
H World operates under leasing, ownership, manachising, and franchising models, focusing on a diverse approach to hotel management.
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