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Angel Zhou, Chairman of Superyacht Industry of GBAYCIA and General Manager of Benetti Asia

Leadership Philosophy
"A superyacht transaction is not merely a transfer of an asset; it is the translation of European maritime heritage into the specific cultural and commercial context of the Asian buyer. Success requires fluency in both."

Angel Zhou

Chairman of Superyacht Industry

Angel Zhou has spent two decades structuring the commercial pathways that connect European superyacht builders with the Asian market. As the General Manager for Asia at Benetti and former Vice President of Simpson Marine, she has directed the regional expansion strategies for the world's most recognized yachting brands, overseeing the establishment of new branch offices and managing complex, high-value vessel handovers. Beyond brokerage and brand management, she co-founded the China Cup International Regatta in 2007, creating a foundational institution for competitive sailing in the region. At GBAYCIA, she serves as Chairman of the Superyacht Industry, applying her deep understanding of shipyard operations, cross-border transactions, and ultra-high-net-worth client management to elevate the Greater Bay Area's position in the global superyacht sector.

The Professional Pillars

  • Chairman of Superyacht Industry, Greater Bay Area Yacht & Cruise Industry Association (GBAYCIA)

  • General Manager, Asia, Benetti

  • Co-Founder, China Cup International Regatta

  • Former Vice President, Simpson Marine


Industry Impact

  • Shipyard Representation: Directs the Asian market strategy for Benetti, managing the commercial relationship between the Italian shipyard and regional buyers to ensure vessels meet specific cultural and operational requirements.

  • Brokerage Expansion: During her tenure as Vice President of Simpson Marine, orchestrated the firm's regional growth strategy, personally overseeing the establishment of five new branch offices across Asia.

  • Event Infrastructure: Co-founded the China Cup International Regatta in 2007, establishing a recognized platform for international competitive sailing and maritime culture in China.

  • Transaction Management: Has personally overseen the handover ceremonies and final delivery protocols for over 100 yacht transactions, ensuring precise execution for ultra-high-net-worth clients.

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More Than Just a Résumé

The Bridge King: Engineering Hong Kong’s Icons 
From 1996 to 2002, Dr. Lau Ching-kwong spearheaded a golden era of infrastructure development in Hong Kong. As Chief Engineer of the Tsing Ma Bridge, he oversaw the delivery of a world-record suspension bridge that became an enduring symbol of the city’s engineering prowess. His leadership extended to the Kap Shui Mun Bridge and Ting Kau Bridge, collectively forming the critical Lantau Link. These achievements solidified his reputation as the "Hong Kong Bridge King," fundamentally transforming the city’s connectivity and iconic skyline. 

The Regional Integrator: Connecting the Greater Bay Area 
Dr. Lau’s influence extends significantly beyond Hong Kong, encompassing pivotal roles in major infrastructure initiatives across the Greater Bay Area and Mainland China. As a technical consultant for the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge’s island-tunnel project, he provided invaluable expert guidance on one of the world’s most complex sea-crossing systems. His contributions to projects like the Shenzhen Metro, Shanghai’s Yangtze River crossings, and various Guangzhou bridge developments underscore his role as a key architect of regional integration, fostering seamless connections across the dynamic economic zone. 
 
The Crisis Authority: The Expert They Call 
When Hong Kong’s most high-profile infrastructure projects encounter significant challenges, Dr. Lau is the indispensable expert sought by authorities. In 2015, MTR appointed him to conduct a comprehensive review of the Express Rail Link following cost overruns and delays. Subsequently, in 2018, he was brought in to strengthen management for the Shatin to Central Link project amidst construction controversies. His consistent ability to provide calm, technically sound guidance during crises has established him as an unparalleled authority in Hong Kong’s infrastructure discourse, restoring public and stakeholder confidence. 

Dr. Lau’s 36-year career in government service, from 1966 to 2002, exemplifies a profound dedication to public service and technical excellence. Rising through the ranks from Assistant Engineer to Director of the Civil Engineering Department, he has not only overseen monumental projects but also passionately mentored generations of engineers. He remains a fervent advocate for young people pursuing engineering careers, articulating his belief that "Professional engineers make significant contributions to social development – the satisfaction from completed projects far exceeds the efforts invested." His work has spanned four continents, from Hong Kong’s iconic bridges to feasibility studies for cross-sea bridges in Malaysia and Indonesia, earning him international recognition as the "Hong Kong Bridge King."

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