top of page
Leadership Philosophy
"A yacht is not just a vessel; it's a personal statement of taste and aspiration. My role is to understand the unique cultural context behind that statement and bring it to life on the water, creating an experience that is both globally exceptional and deeply personal."
Angel Zhou
Honorary Vice Chairman
A pioneering force in Asia's superyacht industry, Angel Zhou has dedicated nearly two decades to building bridges between global luxury brands and the nuanced Asian market. With a track record of launching landmark events and driving unprecedented market expansion, she is a key architect of the region's modern yachting landscape.
The Professional Pillars
-
General Manager, Benetti Asia: Appointed to lead the strategic expansion of one of the world's most prestigious Italian yacht builders, responsible for driving business development, marketing, and client experience across the dynamic Asian market.
-
Co-Founder, China Cup Regatta: In 2007, co-founded what has become one of the most influential sailing events in the world, establishing a powerful platform for international yachting culture and competition in China.
-
Former Vice President, Simpson Marine: Rose through the ranks to become Vice President, where she successfully opened five new branch offices and was instrumental in the company's rapid expansion and market dominance in the region.
Industry Impact
-
Architect of Market Entry & Growth: Developed and executed the strategies that enabled premier global brands like Benetti and Simpson Marine to penetrate and thrive in the complex Asian market, consistently delivering exceptional growth.
-
Pioneer of Yachting Culture: By co-founding the China Cup Regatta, she created a foundational institution that has been critical in cultivating a vibrant sailing culture and attracting a new generation of yachting enthusiasts in Asia.
-
Builder of Industry Ecosystems: Forged powerful connections between international yacht brands, local clients, and regional events, creating a self-sustaining ecosystem that has accelerated the internationalization of China's yacht market.
More Than Just a Résumé
From Vision to Victory: The Birth of the China Cup
Where others saw an untapped market, Angel Zhou saw the potential for a world-class sporting legacy. In 2007, she co-founded the China Cup Regatta, transforming a bold idea into what is now one of the most influential sailing competitions globally. This wasn't just about organizing a race; it was about creating a cultural anchor for yachting in China, attracting international attention and inspiring a generation of local sailors. The China Cup stands as a testament to her foresight and ability to turn ambitious visions into enduring institutions.
Wins:
-
Established a globally recognized sailing event that put China on the international yachting map.
-
Created a powerful, recurring platform for brand marketing, industry networking, and cultural exchange.
The Architect of Expansion: Building a Market Leader
During her tenure at Simpson Marine, Angel Zhou proved she was not just a visionary, but a master of execution. Tasked with growing the brand's footprint, she spearheaded a period of aggressive and successful expansion, ultimately rising to Vice President. She personally oversaw the opening of five new branch offices, building teams and operational frameworks from the ground up. Her deep understanding of regional nuances allowed Simpson Marine to navigate diverse local markets, cementing its position as a dominant force in Asia.
Wins:
-
Drove the rapid and profitable expansion of a leading yacht brokerage, establishing a multi-office network across China.
-
Built and mentored high-performing teams, creating a sustainable model for long-term market leadership.
The Cultural Bridge: Connecting East and West
Angel Zhou's career is defined by her unique ability to act as a cultural and commercial bridge between the heritage of European yachting and the aspirations of the Asian market. Her appointment as General Manager of Benetti Asia was a recognition of this rare skill. She understands that for a new generation of owners, a yacht is a symbol of personality and taste. Her expertise lies in translating the DNA of iconic brands like Benetti in a way that resonates deeply with local culture, ensuring that the legacy of Western craftsmanship finds a new and authentic expression in Asia.
Wins:
-
Successfully positioned premier European luxury brands for success within the unique cultural context of the Asian market.
-
Cultivated a deep network of trust with high-net-worth clients by understanding their distinct needs and aspirations.
The Benetti Mandate: Charting the Next Chapter
Angel Zhou's appointment as the head of Benetti Asia marks the culmination of her two-decade journey. She is now entrusted with steering one of the most revered names in yachting through its next phase of growth in the world's fastest-growing market. Her mandate is clear: to deepen the connection between Benetti and a new generation of discerning owners, leveraging her unparalleled market insight and business acumen to solidify the brand's position as the ultimate symbol of luxury and personal expression.
Fun Fact:
Angel believes the most crucial part of any yacht deal is the handover ceremony, where a client's dream officially becomes a reality. She has personally attended over 100 such ceremonies to share in that pivotal moment.
bottom of page