Show Notes
This week James Kennedy meets Dr. Jens Wilhelm Meyer, Commercial Plant Manager at VHIT – Vacuum Hydraulics Italy. They delve into the fascinating and often complex experiences of being acquired by a Chinese company.
Jens, with a profound 25-year tenure in the automotive and mobility sector, shares his invaluable insights into Chinese business culture and essential strategies for gaining a competitive edge. Having navigated the challenges and opportunities of cross-cultural business following VHIT’s acquisition, Jens’s experiences offer a rare glimpse into the mechanics of international corporate integration.
What You’ll Learn:
- Understanding Chinese Business Culture: Insights into the unique aspects of Chinese corporate practices and how they influence global business strategies.
- Navigating Cross-Cultural Acquisitions: Practical advice on managing and thriving in a business environment shaped by diverse cultural and operational norms.
- Strategic Advantages in Global Markets: How to leverage international opportunities to foster growth and innovation in your own business.
Episode Highlights:
- “Jens, could you walk us through the initial phases of integration after VHIT was acquired? What were the key challenges and how were they addressed?”
- “In your extensive career, how have you seen Chinese business practices evolve, and what current trends should global businesses be aware of?”
- “What strategies have proven most effective for you in maintaining operational excellence across different cultural contexts?”
- “Looking forward, how do you see the role of international collaborations shaping the future of the mobility sector?”
About Dr. Jens Wilhelm Meyer: Dr. Meyer is not only the Commercial Plant Manager at VHIT S.P.A. but also a member of the Board of Directors. His career spans significant roles, including a postgraduate assistant professorship at the University of St.Gallen and leading the task force for Brexit for Bosch’s mobility sector. His expertise in strategy, innovation, and cross-cultural leadership has been pivotal in steering VHIT through its post-acquisition phase and beyond.
