Gree’s Dong Mingzhu on Meng Yutong’s Possible Return: “Why Not?” After Year Abroad

CNBC AI Exclusive | May 23, 2024

In a surprise TikTok livestream that captivated Chinese social media, Gree Electric Chairwoman Dong Mingzhu reunited publicly with former protégé Meng Yutong, marking their first joint appearance since Meng's high-profile exit from the appliance giant in 2023.

The broadcast delivered a dramatic twist to corporate China's most talked-about mentorship saga. When asked about Meng's potential return, Dong challenged Gree's longstanding policy against rehiring departed employees: "Yutong didn't leave to steal trade secrets or jump to competitors. Given that context, why shouldn't we reconsider?"

In a strategic pivot, Dong revealed the conglomerate'S softened stance: "After Meng completes her one-year overseas academic program, pathways for her return to Gree remain open." This contrasts sharply with previous statements about the company's "strict no-return policy" for former staff.

The chairwoman attributed the reconciliation to modern digital serendipity. "Seeing Yutong's study abroad announcement on social media, I felt compelled to reach out," Dong explained. Meng later confessed the message left her "too exhilarated to sleep."

Addressing rumors of a bitter split, Dong dismissed workplace gossip: "Speculations about our relationship are unfounded. While we maintain professional standards, human connections transcend corporate boundaries. Meng is like family—youthful missteps shouldn't define lifelong bonds."

Analysis | Leadership Calculus

Industry analysts suggest this carefully choreographed appearance signals Gree's evolving talent strategy amid fierce competition. "Dong is demonstrating emotional intelligence in talent retention while safeguarding corporate discipline," said Zhang Wei, a Shanghai-based HR strategist. "It's a masterclass in balancing corporate rigor with Gen Z workforce expectations."

The livestream, which trended within hours of airing, underscores Chinese enterprises' growing sophistication in reputation management through controlled transparency. With over 2.8 million concurrent viewers, the event achieved what would typically require millions in marketing spend—humanizing corporate leadership while seeding positive brand narratives.