Hui Lin Chit embodies the essence of a self-made man. Forced to leave school in Primary Five to help support his family, he never let the lack of formal education hinder his growth. Instead, he continuously sought knowledge from alternative sources, refining his skills through hands-on experience. Over 30 years in business, Hui’s commitment to lifelong learning has enhanced his management abilities and shaped his approach to career development and leadership.
Inspired by Role Models
Hui’s greatest inspirations were his parents, who instilled in him strong moral values. His mother’s generosity, even in times of scarcity, and his father’s honesty and broad-mindedness influenced his principles at work. Beyond family, he greatly admires Inamori Kazuo, the founder of Kyocera Corporation and KDDI Corporation. Hui was particularly inspired by Inamori’s Amoeba Management system, which breaks a company into small, self-sustaining teams to optimize efficiency and profitability. Recognizing its potential, Hui implemented this system at Hengan International Group Company Limited (Hengan Group), leading the company through a successful third management reform.
Building Hengan Group into an Industry Leader
Founded in 1985, Hengan Group has grown into China’s largest hygiene product manufacturer, producing sanitary napkins, baby and adult diapers, tissue paper, and wet wipes. As one of the pioneer enterprises in China’s sanitary napkin industry, Hengan’s Anle brand quickly dominated the market, capturing 40% share by the late 1980s. Today, the company has assets exceeding USD 3 billion, a workforce of over 230,000 employees, and an extensive distribution network across China. Hengan Group’s listing on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in 1998 and its inclusion in the Hang Seng Index in 2011 mark two major milestones in its growth.
Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability
Hui firmly believes that true success is measured not just by business achievements but also by societal contributions. Hengan Group actively engages in corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, regularly evaluating the relationship between business and community impact. The company has been recognized with national honors for its charitable efforts, including donations exceeding RMB 40 million to the Jinjiang City Charity Federation and contributions to educational initiatives like the Neikeng Central Elementary School. Additionally, Hengan Group participates in Tencent Charity Foundation’s 99 Charity Day, utilizing mobile internet to promote charitable engagement.
Hui’s commitment to sustainability has earned him multiple accolades, including the Low Carbon Leadership Award by the World Economic and Environmental Conference. He has also received the Guangcai Programme Medal and the China Charity Outstanding Contribution Award for his philanthropic efforts. Hengan Group remains dedicated to environmental responsibility, adhering to strict national environmental laws and implementing the ISO 14001:2015 environmental management system since 2003. The company prioritizes waste reduction, clean production, and compliance with environmental regulations to minimize its ecological footprint.
Leadership Philosophy and Workforce Development
For Hui, leadership is about fostering win-win scenarios. He believes that true leaders continuously learn, adapt to market changes, and remain forward-thinking. More than just a leadership style, he emphasizes the importance of core values—responsibility, courage, and selflessness. He also stresses the significance of corporate governance, noting that a well-structured system can build strong leaders, while a flawed one can undermine them.
Under his leadership, Hengan Group promotes a people-oriented management philosophy, encouraging collaboration and diversity. The company has established training programs in partnership with universities and colleges, providing employees with opportunities for skill enhancement through Hengan Management College. These initiatives contribute to an engaged, high-performing workforce, reinforcing the company’s position as an industry leader.
Adapting to an Ever-Changing Market
Over the past three decades, Hui has successfully guided Hengan Group through numerous challenges in a dynamic business environment. By embracing timely reforms, maintaining corporate governance, and committing to sustainable practices, the company continues to thrive. With a clear focus on innovation, environmental responsibility, and social impact, Hui Lin Chit remains a driving force in the hygiene product industry, ensuring that Hengan Group grows alongside its customers for a better future.
