Release
The Switch, a leading supplier of megawatt-class permanent magnet generator and full-power converter packages for wind power and other renewable energy applications, announced today the appointment of David Zhao in the position of General Manager for China.
This hiring of Zhao underpins the Switch’s long-term ambitions to establish itself as the preferred partner in PMG and FPC in a market in which The Switch has been extremely strong. Zhao comes from a mechanical engineering background and previously held senior management positions in the telecommunication and transportation industries. He brings a wealth of capabilities in operations and sourcing. This move represents a further step in fully immersing the company in the market, which is of strategic importance to The Switch.
“The Chinese wind power market will remain challenging, particularly because of overcapacity. But the government still has ambitious plans to support the development of clean energy in the short and medium terms. The Switch has pioneered PMG and FPC technologies, and we are in a favorable position to meet the needs of Chinese manufacturers effectively,” commented Zhao.
Zhao’s leadership mandate includes implementing and applying The Switch’s flexible business model in China to optimize operations and grow its local customer base. One main objective will be to enhance The Switch’s local capabilities as well as improving business processes and promoting the company’s engineering competence.
“David will further improve the communication within the group and among the personnel in China. We have done great work building a good platform in that market and I am sure that our new General Manager will prove instrumental in improving our operations there,” added Jukka-Pekka Mäkinen, Chief Executive of The Switch.
About The Switch
With 6.5 GW of installed wind power capacity, The Switch is a leading supplier of megawatt-class permanent magnet generator and full-power converter packages that effectively capture power from highly variable new energy sources like wind and solar. The technology ensures reliable, future-proof grid compliance and maximized energy yields. Since starting operations in 2006, The Switch has reached net sales of EUR 93.8 million in 2011. The company employs a total of 210 persons. The Switch is headquartered in Vantaa, Finland.
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