Zippo Manufacturing Company announced the appointment of Mr. Liu Jinghua to the new position of Managing Director, Asia, effective January 1, 2017. In his new role, Mr. Liu will be responsible for all Zippo business development in the Greater China market. Additionally, Mr. Liu will oversee operations for three of Zippo's subsidiaries in China.
Mr. Liu joined Zippo in 2011 as the brand's first China based executive. In that role, he established the company's first mainland based business unit, three Zippo subsidiaries and two regional sales offices. Over the past six years, Mr. Liu has led a successful channel reform, developed a well-regulated, nationwide retail network and established strong partnerships with hundreds of dealers across the country.
Prior to joining Zippo, Mr. Liu worked as Head of Sales at PhilipMorris in China. He holds a degree in International Economy and Trade, Science of Law, and an MBA from Beijing University.
"Mr. Liu's experience and commitment to Zippo's business development makes him the ideal candidate for managing this strategically important business," said Richard Finlow, Zippo Senior Vice President of Global Sales.
"I am very excited about this new opportunity to promote Zippo's business throughout the Asian market, building upon our strong foundation in China and integrating regional resources and best practices," said Mr. Liu. "We believe there is huge opportunity for growth in this prospering region."
ABOUT ZIPPO MANUFACTURING COMPANY
One of the most recognized brands in the world, Zippo was founded in the fall of 1932 by George G. Blaisdell in Bradford, Pennsylvania, where it has manufactured over 550 million windproof lighters. With the exception of improvements to the flint wheel and modifications in case finishes, the product remains unchanged and is backed by the company's famous lifetime guarantee – "It works, or we fix it free.™" Zippo's diverse product line includes lighters and accessories; butane candle lighters; fragrance, and a robust line of heat and flame products for outdoor enthusiasts. Zippo markets in nearly 200 countries and also owns the Ronson brand of lighters and fuel and W.R. Case and Sons Cutlery Company, both based in Bradford, Pennsylvania. For more information, visit www.Zippo.com or follow Zippo on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat (@OriginalZippo).
