New | Former Lenovo VP goes from microchips to mulch
Chen Shaopeng has used skills he learned helping to run world's top computer maker to establish cutting-edge fruit brand Joyvio
At first glance, the information technology and agriculture sectors would seem to have little in common. The former is often associated with the latest innovations in advanced technology, while the latter is a much more traditional segment geared to meeting basic needs.
Chen was a senior vice-president of Lenovo Group, the world's largest PC manufacturer and vendor, overseeing business in emerging markets including Greater China, Asia Pacific, Eastern Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America.
Two years ago, the turning point of his career came when Liu Chuanzhi, founder of Lenovo and chairman of Legend Holdings, asked if he would be interested in running a modern agriculture business and establishing a world-class food brand in China.
We’re pioneers in this sector and what we’re doing now might change the industry
"I always had the urge to start a business on my own. So when Mr Liu approached me, I thought: 'This is a good opportunity,'" Chen said. He then accepted the appointment as president of an agricultural venture run by Joyvio Group, a subsidiary of Legend Holdings, the parent of Lenovo.
That was two years ago, and Joyvio is now China's largest producer of blueberries and kiwifruit in China after acquiring farms in Shandong and Sichuan provinces, as well as in Chile, Australia, and the United States. It also introduced strong varieties of fruits, followed strict planting and processing procedures, established a product tracing system, and developed an end-to-end sales network to ensure the high quality of its produce.
