Shou Zi Chew, the Singaporean businessman and entrepreneur who has served as the CEO of TikTok since 2021, is a remarkable individual who has carved a path of success in the ever-evolving world of technology.
His journey from an investment banker to the helm of one of the world's most popular social media platforms is a testament to his acumen, resilience, and ability to navigate complex challenges.
Chew received an elite education, attending top-tier institutions such as University College London and Harvard Business School.
His early career was marked by impressive stints at Goldman Sachs, a leading investment bank, and DST Global, a prominent venture capital firm.
These experiences instilled in him a deep understanding of the financial and technological landscapes, laying the foundation for his future endeavours.
In 2015, Chew's career took a significant turn when he joined Xiaomi, the Chinese smartphone giant, as its Chief Financial Officer (CFO).
At the age of 32, he became one of the youngest CFOs in a major tech company, demonstrating his exceptional talent and leadership potential.
Chew's contributions to Xiaomi were instrumental in its growth and success. He played a key role in the company's initial public offering (IPO) in 2018, which raised over $4.7 billion, making it the largest IPO in technology history at the time.
His financial expertise and strategic insights helped Xiaomi establish itself as a global player in the smartphone industry.
In 2021, Chew embarked on a new challenge, taking on the role of CEO at TikTok, the short-form video app that had taken the world by storm.
His appointment came at a critical juncture for the company, as it faced intense scrutiny and potential bans in the United States and other countries due to concerns over data privacy and national security.
Chew's leadership has been characterised by his calm demeanour, strategic thinking, and commitment to building trust with stakeholders.
He has actively engaged with governments, regulators, and the public, addressing concerns and outlining TikTok's commitment to data security and responsible operations.
In addition to his strategic initiatives, Chew has also demonstrated a knack for connecting with TikTok's vast and diverse user base.
He has actively used the platform to share personal insights, engage with creators, and showcase TikTok's positive impact on society. His efforts have helped foster a sense of community and belonging among TikTok users, further strengthening the platform's appeal.
Despite the challenges faced by TikTok, Chew has remained steadfast in his vision for the company's future.
He has emphasised the importance of innovation, creativity, and positive impact, positioning TikTok as a platform that empowers individuals, fosters creativity, and connects people across the globe.
Under Chew's leadership, TikTok has continued to grow and evolve, expanding its user base, enhancing its features, and exploring new avenues for growth.
The company has also made significant strides in addressing data privacy concerns and building trust with regulators.
However, towards his family, Chew has a surprising house rule: his children are forbidden from using the app. This revelation sparks a fascinating paradox - the man at the helm of a digital empire restricts his own family's access to it.
Chew and his wife, Vivian Kao, an American of Taiwanese descent (Source: 99.co)
Chew, married to Vivian Kao, has three children: a pair of six and eight-year-olds, and a newborn welcomed in late 2023.
Despite the app's immense popularity, Chew's older children are forbidden from using it. This seemingly self-contradictory decision stems from regional age restrictions.
While TikTok offers a restricted experience for users under 13 in the US, other countries, including Singapore, completely bar users below that age.
Chew, prioritising his children's safety and development, chooses to abide by these local regulations.
Despite his high profile career, Chew has always been low profile about his family and private life. There were even rumours circulating that he is the People's Republic of China’s Vice President, Han Zheng’s, illegitimate child.
But what's the truth?
Shou Zi Chew was born in Singapore in 1983 to a local Chinese family.
According to his interview with Vogue, he grew up with his Singapore-born Chinese parents and siblings, experiencing a typical childhood in the 1980s and 1990s. His father reportedly worked in construction and his mother in bookkeeping.
He attended Hong Dao Primary School, a neighbourhood school that has since merged with Anderson Primary School.
Fond memories of his youth include playing soccer with friends at the void deck, a common open space found below residential buildings in Singapore. While admitting he wasn't the most skilled player, Chew cherished the camaraderie and shared experiences with his friends.
At the age of 12, he scored well enough on the national exams to enter The Chinese High School and later on Hwa Chong Junior College, both prestigious institutions consistently ranked among Singapore's top schools. These institutions, which have since merged to form Hwa Chong Institution, fostered lifelong friendships that Chew maintains to this day.
His alma mater congratulating and celebrating his achievements on their Facebook page
Following his education, Chew completed his mandatory National Service, a rite of passage for all Singaporean men. He served as a commissioned officer and fondly recalls training exercises in the jungles of Brunei.
In 2021, Chew reportedly set a new high standard for luxury living by acquiring a Good Class Bungalow (GCB) in the prestigious Queen Astrid Park neighbourhood for a cool S$86 million.
Source: uchify.com
This sprawling estate boasts an impressive land area of approximately 31,800 square feet, making it a true trophy property. While details of the existing bungalow are scarce, public records suggest it was slated for redevelopment, allowing Chew to craft a bespoke residence befitting his stature.
The hefty price tag translates to roughly S$2,700 per square foot, solidifying this GCB as one of the most expensive transactions in the Queen Astrid Park area.
Source: 99.co
Prior to Chew's purchase in 2021, the most recent transactions at Queen Astrid Park involved a smaller property of 15,871 sqft sold in June 2019 for S$23.6 million and another property sold in July 2016 that spanned 35,012 sqft and fetched S$44.5 million (average psf S$1,271).
Queen Astrid Park itself is part of District 10, an enclave known for its affluence and proximity to desirable neighbourhoods like Bukit Timah and Holland Road. Chew's decision to set roots in this exclusive area reflects his remarkable rise to the pinnacle of the tech world.
Shou Zi Chew's journey from investment banker to tech CEO is an inspiring story of ambition, talent, and resilience. His leadership at TikTok during a time of immense challenges has demonstrated his ability to navigate complex situations, build trust, and steer a company towards a brighter future.
As Chew continues to guide TikTok's growth and expansion, he stands as a visionary leader in the ever-evolving world of technology. His commitment to innovation, creativity, and positive impact positions him as a key figure in shaping the future of digital experiences and connecting people across the globe.
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