Yoyo – From Research to Sales

What quality do you value most in yourself?

Integrity, kindness, optimism and self-reflection.

Where do you like to spend your time the most?

Quality time with family and friends.

What is your favorite book?

“The power law” and  “I Want to Be the One to Tell Your Life Story at Your Funeral”.

What is your favorite movie?

It´s “One Day”.

What sports do you like?

Table tennis and swimming.

Where do you like to travel?

Hong Kong, Kyoto and the Lake District.

Do you enjoy shopping in your free time?
Yes, I'm an 80% rational shopper, I specifically like items that are designed and different (not mediocre) and I am willing to pay for branding.

What is your motto?

Read yourself, enjoy yourself, delight in yourself.

Share with us a bit about your career path!

After graduating from Oxford, I went to Hong Kong to further pursue my PhD and stayed to work there. At first, I continued working as a postdoc at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST). Although I had post-doctoral fellowship, I was not doing R&D work, but working with professors to do startups.

The road to entrepreneurship is not easy, it is a matter of timing and luck. One year later, I joined a research institute to work in R&D, and later went to a famous family-owned company in Hong Kong to work in pioneer research. After eight years in the lab, I realized that my personality was more suited to dealing with people than machines. By chance, I learned about a commercial position at Evonik through a headhunter and joined in.

As a postdoctoral researcher, why were you willing to give up academia and join Evonik in a commercial role?

My competitive spirit led me to join Evonik. I knew from the beginning that the requirements of this position were very strict with several rounds of interviews and an assessment center at that time. My desire to win was mobilized, and I felt that I needed to give it a try. Then I got down on the road and finally entered Evonik, from a lab “girl” to a sales newbie.

What does „Be Part of Something Special“ mean to you?

I believe that everyone is special. Personally, I enjoy special objects in life, such as well-designed clothes, jewelry, or ornaments. In my studies and work, I also like to innovate. For example, during my PhD, my research direction was different from that of my colleagues, and this "special" made my doctoral journey smoother.

Similarly, when I first joined Evonik, as a newcomer without business experience, I was a unique presence in the team. But it was precious because of my different experiences that I was able to bring some fresh ideas to the team. Lastly, I would like to say that everyone in the team should retain their own uniqueness, and we can work together to find highlights and create something special, be part of something special, resulting in successful projects and achievements.