Chien said he is aware China is the world's largest rubber maker, so Lanxess led by him offers support to the local industry to meet global standards.

Earlier in 2015, Lanxess launched its ethylene propylene diene monomer or EPDM facility in Changzhou, Jiangsu province. The 235-million-euro ($254-million) plant is designed for a capacity of 160,000 metric tons per year, targeting high-end automotive applications in sealing systems, hoses, and anti-vibration parts.

Meanwhile, another plant with an investment of 60 million euros is being built in Ningbo, Zhejiang province, to produce premium iron oxide red pigments. It is scheduled to start production in the first half of this year.

"Both plants are tailor-made for the Asian market and will fulfil Chinese customers' needs," Chien said. He is confident Lanxess's R&D, high-quality innovation, and seamless customer service will make a difference.

According to him, China's economy has been growing in the past two years, albiet at a slower rate, which is still faster than the growth rate of established markets. "A high level of confidence is necessary for long-term success and sustainability in China. I lay stress on communication with everyone, because when everybody in the team has the same goal, there is high chance for success, even when the situation becomes rougher. Confidence can power the ship to sail forward."

Chien said there is no doubt China will achieve its dream of becoming a strong and wealthy nation. "My dream is to lead Lanxess to grow together with China, and ensure the company's local unit gets a bigger role to play in China."

Chien sums up his career as a combination of hard work, willingness to go the extra mile, risk-taking and going beyond the comfort zone into unknown territories. "Very often, you don't know how your life can change dramatically."

BIO

Ming Cheng Chien

CEO of Lanxess Greater China

Place of birth

Shanghai, China

Education

1977-1979: East China Normal University, Shanghai, China

1980-1984: Bachelor's degree in chemicals from City College of New York

1984-1986: Master's degree in chemical engineering from the University of Connecticut

Career

2002-08: General Manager of Basell, licensing and new ventures, Asia-Pacific, Milan, Italy

2008-11: Managing Director, Lanxess Buna GmbH, Marl, Germany

May 2011-12: COO, Lanxess Elastomers BV, Geleen, the Netherlands

Feb 2013-to date: CEO, Lanxess Greater China, Shanghai, China