In Hong Kong, we build a global business empire

Chapter 765 'Company Doctor' Officially Returns to Hutchison Whampoa!
Time flies, and it's already September 28th. The north has begun to enter late autumn, with the forests ablaze with color and the first hints of chill in the air.

However, at this moment, Hong Kong seems to still be in summer.

The scorching sun poured down relentlessly, with daytime temperatures reaching as high as 34 degrees Celsius. Pedestrians on the street were still dressed in light summer clothes, with short sleeves and skirts everywhere, and the air was filled with a lazy yet warm atmosphere.

A week has passed since Lin Haoran swiftly purged Hutchison Whampoa's management and intimidated the Hong Kong business community.

This week, Lam Ho-yin and Lee Ka-shing have dominated the headlines in Hong Kong, with one major event after another shocking the public.

The balance of power in Hong Kong's business community is already tilting.

Originally at a disadvantage, Chinese businessmen have completely surpassed British conglomerates thanks to Lin Haoran's strong rise.

On the top floor of the Connaught Building, Lin Haoran's luxurious private office was bathed in the bright morning sunlight, and through the round floor-to-ceiling windows, he could see the bustling scene of Victoria Harbour.

After several days of soaring share prices, Hutchison Whampoa's market capitalization has stabilized above HK$15 billion.

This is a peak that Hutchison Whampoa has never reached before, and it is enough to show the extreme trust and fervent support that Hong Kong stock investors have for Lin Haoran.

During this period, Galaxy Securities also successfully sold its 11.9% stake in Hutchison Whampoa on the secondary market, raising HK$16.2 billion, far exceeding expectations.

At that moment, Lin Haoran was listening to Ma Shimin's briefing on Hutchison Whampoa's transitional operations when a knock came at the door.

Ma Shimin's assistant stepped in quietly and said to Lin Haoran in a respectful voice, "Boss, Mr. Wei Li has arrived."

Upon hearing this, Lin Haoran smiled slightly and said to Ma Shimin, "You've finally arrived, Shimin. You go and take care of your work first, and we'll talk in detail later."

Ma Shimin nodded in understanding, quickly packed up his documents and left, brushing past the tall, composed, and sharp-eyed British man at the door.

Their eyes met, and they nodded to each other in acknowledgment—a silent exchange of mutual scrutiny and recognition between two capable managers.

Wei Li entered the office.

He wore a well-tailored dark gray suit, his hair was neatly combed, and his expression was calm, but the way he gripped his briefcase and stared intently at Lin Haoran betrayed his inner turmoil.

Just a week ago, he was struggling in the quagmire of the acquisition of China Bus by the Baibaoli Group. Now, he stands before the key figure who will determine whether he can regain the peak of his career.

“Mr. Lin, I’ve long admired your name. I’m honored to have come to visit you.” Wylie extended his hand proactively, speaking fluent Cantonese with a slight British accent, which showed his integration into the Hong Kong environment and the importance he attached to this meeting.

Wei Li, who came to Hong Kong in 1964, has lived in Hong Kong for 17 years and is already fluent in Hong Kong dialect.

Lin Haoran stood up to greet him, smiling as he shook hands with the other man, saying, "Mr. Wei Li, you're too kind. Please have a seat. I'm so glad to finally meet you, a legendary figure in Hong Kong's business world."

He gestured to the sofa in the reception area, then walked over to the tea cabinet himself. "Coffee? Or tea?"

"Black tea, thank you." Wei Li sat down as instructed, his gaze quickly sweeping over the office, a symbol of Hong Kong's highest power—simple, modern, and full of power, just like its owner.

Once upon a time, he also owned an office similar to this one, in the Hutchison Whampoa Building.

Lin Haoran personally brewed two cups of black tea, placed them on the coffee table, and sat down on the sofa opposite Wei Li.

"Mr. Wei Li was very punctual, it's been a week. It seems the matter with China and Pakistan has been resolved satisfactorily?"

Wei Li picked up the teacup, feeling the warmth of the cup with his fingertips, and said frankly, "I have fulfilled my mission and can give the Luo family an explanation. Mr. Lin is well-informed."

As is widely known, the Sino-Pakistani acquisition deal is essentially deadlocked, with the Yan and Guo families locked in a fierce battle, and the price has long since deviated from reason.

I suggested that the Luo family withdraw at the right time, taking advantage of the infighting, and sell their nearly 15% stake in China-Pakistan joint ventures to the Yan family, who were eager to consolidate their advantage, at a price nearly 40% higher than our initial acquisition price.

The Luo family profited handsomely; although they didn't achieve their acquisition goal, the outcome was still a win-win situation.

He paused, his tone carrying a hint of relief: "As for Yalong Company, where I served as chairman, it was originally a 'shell' set up for the acquisition of China-Pakistan. With the acquisition battle settled, my mission naturally ended, so I am now a free man."

These words served both as an explanation and a statement of his position—he had no further worries and was ready to take office at any time.

Lin Haoran nodded and took a sip of tea: "Mr. Wei Li is decisive, knows when to advance and retreat, and is good at seizing opportunities. No wonder he was able to save Hutchison International from dire straits back then."

So, you came to see me today not just to tell me that you've regained your freedom?

The core issue was brought up directly.

The air in the office seemed to freeze for a moment.

Sunlight streamed onto the polished floor, casting clear silhouettes of the two figures.

Wei Li put down his teacup, looked directly at Lin Haoran, and said frankly and sharply: "That's right, Mr. Lin. I came here today to know whether the doors of Hutchison Whampoa are still open to me, Wei Li."

And you, Mr. Lin Haoran, as the new owner of Hutchison Whampoa's absolute controlling stake, how do you intend to coexist with the future CEO?

He didn't beat around the bush, but went straight to the point, questioning the most crucial issue: the distribution of power and management philosophy.

This demonstrates both his boldness and his confidence in his own worth.

He was all too aware of how the appeasement policy during Li Jiacheng's era had led to an unwieldy management team, and he was also keenly aware of the disastrous outcome of Richard Xin's attempt to seize power, which resulted in him being fired on the spot by Lin Haoran.

He longed to return to Hutchison Whampoa, the super platform that allowed him to realize his lifelong ambitions, but he absolutely did not want to become a "high-level employee" who was sidelined and constrained at every turn, nor did he want to repeat Richard Shin's mistakes.

This visit was less of a job interview and more of an in-depth negotiation concerning future cooperation models and personal professional dignity.

He needed to confirm whether the space Lin Haoran was giving him was worth risking his future career.

Lin Haoran met Wei Li's gaze, but did not answer immediately. Instead, he slowly said, "Mr. Wei Li is a man of few words. So, I would like to hear your views on Hutchison Whampoa at present."
You yearn to take control of it, but where do you intend to lead it?

He cleverly kicked the ball back, intending to test Wei Li's vision and strategic thinking, while also exerting invisible pressure.

Wei Li's spirits lifted; he had made thorough preparations before coming over.

He opened his briefcase, took out a thin document—the "Outline of Hutchison Whampoa's Future Development Strategy"—which embodied countless efforts of his, and instead of handing it to Lin Haoran, he placed it on the coffee table in front of him and symbolically patted it.

“Mr. Lin, if I may be so frank, Hutchison Whampoa is like a giant recovering from a serious illness. It appears stable on the surface, but in reality, it is riddled with hidden dangers.”

Wei Li's voice became calm, carrying the air of a seasoned commander: "Li Jiacheng has only been in charge for a short time. He is familiar with real estate, but he is completely unfamiliar with Hutchison Whampoa's complex businesses in docks, retail, telecommunications, and energy."

Although I left behind the management team, Richard and his ilk were good at maintaining the status quo but not good at expanding. More seriously, their mentality was unstable and there were many factions.

Your decisive actions last week eliminated the most direct threat and established your authority, but they also caused short-term business disruptions and employee morale fluctuations.

Stability is the top priority, but it is by no means a long-term solution.

He paused, his eyes shining: "Hutchison Whampoa's strength lies in its vast and diversified asset network and deep local roots, but its weaknesses are equally obvious. Its business lines are too scattered, some areas are inefficient, its international expansion is slow and lacks coordination, and its brand value has not been maximized."

In recent years, it has been living off the legacy of the "Big Four" foreign trading companies, but its development speed has fallen behind that of Swire Group.

It requires a clear and forward-looking core strategy, and a comprehensive "streamlining and specialization" approach from the inside out.

Wei Li took a sip of black tea and continued, "My vision is: to reshape the core, focus on the three poles; to have a global perspective and cultivate Asia deeply; to empower with technology and prioritize efficiency."

"Oh?" Lin Haoran leaned forward slightly, showing great interest. "Tell me more about it."

“Reshaping the core, focusing on the three poles:” Wei Li explained clearly, “The first pole, ports and global logistics, is Hutchison Whampoa’s forte, with a solid foundation.”

In the future, we need to further integrate global port resources, especially emerging markets in Southeast Asia and key nodes in Europe, to create an intelligent and efficient global logistics supply chain network and become a true core node operator of the 'Maritime Silk Road'.

The second pillar is retail and branded consumer goods. ParknShop and Watsons are high-quality assets and should accelerate their expansion in Southeast Asia and East Asia. At the same time, they should enrich their mid-to-high-end brand portfolio through acquisitions or incubation to create regional retail giants.

The third pillar is technology, which is the engine of future growth. With the current wave of technological advancements sweeping the globe, Hutchison Whampoa cannot afford to remain uninvolved.

We can get involved in fields such as chips and computers. Although these fields are currently highly competitive and have high technical barriers, they also mean huge development potential.

With its strong financial resources and extensive business network, Hutchison Whampoa is fully capable of getting a share of the pie.

At the same time, it is also necessary to divest or optimize non-core, low-return diversified businesses and concentrate resources on these three pillars; this is what is meant by "streamlining administration and delegating power."

Lin Haoran nodded. What Wei Li said was indeed very interesting and forward-thinking, from his perspective as someone who had been through it all.

In fact, Wei Li had also thought of mobile communications, but since Hong Kong Telephone Company, a subsidiary of Hongkong Land Group, had already entered the industry, Wei Li deleted this idea and did not mention it.

Wei Li paused for a moment, then continued, "Global vision, deep roots in Asia: Hutchison Whampoa has an international background, but its past strategic focus has not been prominent enough."

In the future, in the port logistics and retail sectors, it is necessary to strengthen control over key nodes in Europe and the United States.
In the technology sector, we must concentrate our efforts on cultivating Hong Kong and Southeast Asia—the most promising and familiar markets—to build an "Eastern fortress" and avoid the resource dispersion and management chaos caused by blind globalization.

"Technology empowers, efficiency is paramount": Wei Li's tone carries an insightful view of the future. "Whether it's port management, logistics tracking, retail inventory and supply chain management, or technology, efficiency is the lifeline."

We must boldly introduce the latest computer systems, automated equipment, and data analysis technologies to improve the operational efficiency and management sophistication of each business segment.

Like some companies in the United States, they have long since achieved highly efficient operation of the entire process using computers, from order receipt and transaction matching to clearing and settlement, with each step being accurate and incredibly fast.

This not only reduces costs, but is also the core of building long-term competitiveness.

At the same time, it is necessary to establish future-oriented R&D departments, closely monitor areas that may disrupt the industry, such as medical research, digital technology, and even biotechnology, and maintain strategic sensitivity.

These ideas were undoubtedly very forward-thinking in Hong Kong in the 80s, and even vaguely touched upon the prototype of later "digital transformation" and "industrial internet".

As Lin Haoran listened to Wei Li's explanation, his eyes grew brighter and brighter.

Wei Li's thinking is clear, his strategy is grand and highly operational. In particular, his division of "focusing on three poles" and his emphasis on "technology empowerment" are highly consistent with his deep-seated blueprint for the future development of Hutchison Whampoa, and even provide a more professional framework in some aspects.

This was not an idea that a conservative like Richardson could come up with, but rather the vision of a truly ambitious and far-sighted leader.

"Excellent!" Lin Haoran praised sincerely. "Focus, efficiency, technology, and the future—Mr. Wei Li, your strategic vision truly lives up to its reputation. This aligns perfectly with my vision for Hutchison Whampoa to become a 'top-tier integrated commercial behemoth in Asia.' So, let's return to your initial question."

You asked me how I would get along with a future CEO?

My answer is: Don't use those you doubt, and trust those you use; be goal-oriented, with unified authority and responsibility; have clear bottom lines, and ensure constant oversight.

These twelve words, spoken with conviction, clearly outline Lin Haoran's philosophy on personnel management and the boundaries of his control.

Wei Li was highly focused; he knew the most crucial part was about to begin.

"If you doubt someone, don't use them; if you use someone, don't doubt them. Since I chose you, Wei Li, as the president of Hutchison Whampoa, it means I recognize your ability, experience, and strategic vision."

I will fully delegate day-to-day operational decisions, specific business operations, and even the selection and appointment of senior management teams to you. I will not, like some people, micromanage every detail and interfere in the execution of specific projects.

His tone was flat, but it was obvious who he was referring to as "certain people".

This undoubtedly reassured Wei Li.

"Goal-oriented, with unified authority and responsibility. I give you space, but I also demand results."

What are our goals? They are what you just mentioned in your strategy: to reshape our core business, improve profitability, and expand market share, especially the three core areas you emphasized: port logistics, retail, and technology, where we must achieve significant breakthroughs.

I will work with you to determine clear, quantifiable three- and five-year strategic goals, as well as annual financial and business targets.

If we achieve our goal, you, Mr. Wei, will be the biggest contributor to Hutchison Whampoa's revival. I will not be stingy with your treatment, reputation, and board support.

But if we deviate from the strategic direction, or fail to achieve our core objectives one after another,” he paused, his gaze sharp, “that means there’s a problem with our cooperation, and we need to re-examine it.”

With great power comes great responsibility; if you're at the helm, you're accountable for the course and the outcome.

"The bottom line is clear, and supervision is constant. My delegation of authority to you is not laissez-faire. There are several bottom lines that cannot be crossed. The first is asset security and financial compliance."

Major asset disposals, such as the sale of core ports or large properties, major investment and acquisitions, and major financing activities, must be reported to the board of directors, meaning I need to be informed and obtain their approval.

Financial reports must be truthful, accurate, and timely, and any actions that harm the interests of shareholders are strictly prohibited.

Secondly, the core strategic direction. The "focus on three poles" strategy you proposed is not only your idea, but also my endorsement. It will be the fundamental principle of Hutchison Whampoa for the next five to ten years.

You can fine-tune your tactics based on market changes, but you cannot arbitrarily overturn or deviate significantly from this core direction.

Thirdly, company culture and values. Hutchison Whampoa needs a capable, efficient, and incorruptible team. I will never tolerate internal factionalism, corruption, or insincere "non-violent non-cooperation."

Richard's fate is a clear example of the red line.

Lin Haoran leaned back slightly and softened his tone: "As for supervision, it doesn't mean I'm going to send someone to watch you every day. The board of directors has normal governance mechanisms such as the audit committee and the compensation committee."

Simon Murray will serve as the interim vice chairman of the board to assist you with the integration work after the transition period and to provide support and advice as necessary.

I also understand the company's operations through regular CEO reports, board meetings, and key business data reports. Under normal circumstances, I don't interfere too much; my energy is focused on the overall strategic planning and capital operations of all subsidiaries.

However, if the bottom line is crossed, or if the 'hidden dangers' you mentioned in your strategy materialize under your leadership, leading to a sustained and significant decline in performance, a marked drop in market position, or systemic risks within the company…

He didn't finish his sentence, but the sharpness beneath his calm gaze left Wei Li with no doubt about his determination and strength in intervening; these words were by no means empty threats.

After saying that, Lin Haoran added, "This model of 'delegation + goals + bottom line + supervision' is not just for you and Huang. As long as the professional manager is good enough, and the goals are achieved and the bottom line is maintained, I am happy to be a 'hands-off manager'."

Wei Li listened quietly, his mind racing as he weighed every word Lin Haoran said.

Lin Haoran's framework is extremely clear: give him the power and room to maneuver that a president should have, set clear goals and inviolable bottom lines, and supplement it with institutionalized supervision rather than personal intervention.

This is even better than the best-case scenario he had anticipated!
In particular, in contrast to Li Jiacheng's restraint and eventual loss of control over Richard, Lin Haoran demonstrates a more mature, confident, and efficient art of management—trust based on rules and contracts, rather than a balance based on compromise and suspicion.

“Mr. Lin,” Wei Li took a deep breath, the doubt and probing in his eyes completely disappearing, replaced by a fighting spirit and solemnity ignited by understanding and trust, “Your framework is clear, professional, and highly constructive.”

Space, goals, bottom lines, and rules—this is the foundation of cooperation that I, a professional manager eager to make a difference on a truly big stage, have been dreaming of!

I fully understand and accept the goals and bottom lines you have set.

Please rest assured that ensuring asset security, financial compliance, strategic direction, and integrity and efficiency is not only a responsibility to you, but also a responsibility to my personal reputation and career at Weili!

The approval process for major matters is a basic rule that I will abide by. My only request is that, within the strategic framework, I be granted full decision-making authority regarding specific tactical execution and the use of personnel.

Without the slightest hesitation, he directly stated his willingness to accept the "contract".

This is not just recognition, but also a confident commitment; he believes he has the ability to lead Hutchison Whampoa to revival within this framework.

Looking at Wei Li's eyes, which were filled with fighting spirit and confidence, Lin Haoran finally showed a satisfied smile.

He extended his hand: "Very good! Mr. Wei Li, welcome to Hutchison Whampoa as Vice Chairman of the Board and CEO. The specific details of the employment contract will be discussed between you and Simon Murray."

I believe that under your leadership, Hutchison Whampoa will surely regain its former glory and sail towards an even brighter future!

Two hands, one representing Hong Kong's newly crowned uncrowned king and capital behemoth, and the other representing the experienced and ambitious "former taipan," clasped tightly together at this moment, transcending past barriers and suspicions.

This is not only the beginning of personal collaboration, but also signifies the official opening of a new era for Hutchison Whampoa.

"Mr. Lin, it's a pleasure doing business with you!" Wei Li's voice carried a hint of barely perceptible excitement.

"It's a pleasure to cooperate with you, President Wei Li." Lin Haoran said with a confident smile.

In the following time, the two communicated efficiently about some more specific details.

Wei Li put forward several preliminary ideas for core executive candidates, including re-employing some middle-level backbones who understand Hutchison Whampoa but have not been given important positions before, as well as introducing experts in relevant fields from outside. Lin Haoran gave his support within the bounds of principle.

Wei Li also reported on his preliminary assessment of the current status of Hutchison Whampoa's various business segments and several pain points that urgently need to be addressed, such as the efficiency issues of some ports and the optimization of the retail supply chain. Lin Haoran expressed his agreement.

The talks lasted for nearly two hours, and the atmosphere remained pragmatic and harmonious throughout.

As Wayne rose to leave, he felt the heavy burden that had weighed on his heart for a week had been lifted, replaced by a long-lost sense of excitement and challenge.

Lin Haoran personally escorted Wei Li to the office door: "President Wei Li, I look forward to your first report card at Hutchison Whampoa. I will arrange for Mr. Ma Shimin to make preparations for the press conference as soon as possible."

"I will certainly live up to the boss's expectations!" Wei Li nodded solemnly.

At this moment, Wei Li changed his address to Lin Haoran from "Mr. Lin" to "Boss".

Three days later, on September 30, a highly anticipated press conference was held inside the Hutchison Whampoa Building.

On the dais, Lin Haoran sat in the center, Ma Shimin on his left, and the seat on the right belonged to Wei Li, who had returned to Hutchison Whampoa as Vice Chairman of the Board and CEO.

The flashbulbs were going off like crazy, and the shutters were clicking incessantly.

When Lin Haoran personally announced the news of Wei Li joining the team, the whole audience was in an uproar and then a heated discussion broke out!

"Williams? It really is him back!"

"The former tycoon is back at the helm! Mr. Lin's move was brilliant!"

"Richard Shin fired, Wayne Lai takes over! Hutchison Whampoa is really about to undergo a major change!"

"Quickly! Publish the news! Big news!"

Lin Haoran briefly introduced Wei Li's illustrious resume and his confidence in Hutchison Whampoa's future, then handed the microphone to Wei Li.

Facing countless cameras and a barrage of questions from reporters, Wei Li appeared calm and confident.

He didn't dwell on the past, but focused on the future:

“I am very honored to return to Hutchison Whampoa at this crucial moment. Under the leadership of Chairman Lin Haoran, Hutchison Whampoa possesses unparalleled capital strength and strategic vision.”

My mission is to lead the management team to integrate resources, improve efficiency, focus on core competencies, and innovate boldly, so that Hutchison Whampoa, this great name, can be revitalized and become a leading force in leading business trends in Asia and even the world!

We will reshape our port logistics advantages, build a world-class retail brand matrix, and fully invest in the blue ocean of future technologies... Specific strategic plans will be disclosed to you in detail after the board meeting later.

I believe that a new chapter for Hutchison Whampoa officially begins today!

Wei Li's composed speech, coupled with his return to the center of power, sent a powerful signal.

The scene was boiling again.

The news swept through Hong Kong like a hurricane!
"The King Returns! Wei Li Takes Back the Reins and Commander Huang's Seal, Lin Haoran Appoints Him as the Helmsman of Revival!"

"After the iron-fisted purge, Lin Haoran brought back 'company doctor' Wei Li, and Huang entered the era of 'Lin-Wei co-governance'?"

"The era of Li Ka-shing has come to a complete end! The return of Wayne Lai marks Hutchison Whampoa's full shift to the strategic track of Lin Haoran!"

"With a capital giant and a veteran leader, can Hutchison Whampoa return to its peak? The business landscape of Hong Kong is about to be shaken up again!"

As a result of Wayne Roy's return to Hutchison Whampoa, Hutchison Whampoa's stock price surged again that day.

After all, during his six years at Hutchison Whampoa, Wayne Lai had already made the people of Hong Kong aware that he was a legendary figure with outstanding leadership skills and profound industry experience.

During those six years, he led Hutchison Whampoa through the turbulent business world, turning danger into safety time and time again, creating countless remarkable business miracles.

(End of this chapter)