Zhang Yue, chief financial officer of Shanghai Shenqi Medical Technology Co Ltd, speaks at a CFO salon session in Beijing on Nov 19, 2023. (PROVIDED TO CHINA DAILY)

It is imperative for chief financial officers to maintain an entrepreneurial mindset to navigate the unpredictable terrains of capital, policy, and market dynamics, a seasoned CFO told a recent seminar in Beijing.

Zhang Yue, CFO of Shanghai Shenqi Medical Technology Co Ltd, a high-tech company devoted to the research and development, manufacturing and sales of innovative medical devices, shared her insights and perspectives on the evolving role of CFOs in today’s dynamic business landscape at the 20th session of the CFO Salon held on Nov 19.

Reflecting on her career path, Zhang highlighted the personal growth and satisfaction derived from overcoming new challenges. Her experience as a CFO has expanded her professional network and perspectives

The seminar delved into the evolution of China’s healthcare industry, discussing the impact of capital influx, policy changes, and market maturation. The conversation highlighted the adaptability required of CFOs in this changing landscape.

Shenqi Medical stands at the forefront of medical device innovation, integrating research and development, production, and sales. The company specializes in products for cardiovascular intervention, structural heart disease, and peripheral vascular intervention, primarily used in minimally invasive surgeries. Its flagship product, the coronary drug-coated balloon catheter, represents the pinnacle of its commercial endeavors.

ALSO READ: A CFO's growth path: From a 'Big Four' accounting firm to biotech companies

Zhang, with extensive experience in finance and advisory services, has been a transformative figure at Shenqi Medical. She said CFOs should adopt an entrepreneurial mindset and fully understand the importance of industry insights and problem-solving prowess in fostering career growth and corporate success.

Graduated from Beijing Foreign Studies University majoring in English, Zhang began her professional journey at Deloitte, followed by a financial consulting role in mergers and acquisitions at PricewaterhouseCoopers. After earning an MBA from Dartmouth College’s Tuck School of Business, she joined Goldman Sachs’s investment banking department, contributing to various energy, industrial, and internet industry projects. The healthcare sector’s allure led her to pivot her career, stepping into the CFO role at a healthcare startup in 2020.

Zhang Yue, chief financial officer of Shanghai Shenqi Medical Technology Co Ltd, speaks at a CFO salon session in Beijing on Nov 19, 2023. (PROVIDED TO CHINA DAILY)

She views her journey as a blend of professional development and entrepreneurial discovery. She identifies strategic problem-solving capabilities and industry acumen as key tenets of the entrepreneurial spirit vital for today’s CFOs.

Zhang underscores the importance of an entrepreneurial mindset for CFOs navigating the unpredictable terrains of capital, policy, and market dynamics. She contrasts her experiences in advisory roles with the proactive and autonomous nature of a startup CFO’s responsibilities, emphasizing the need for self-driven problem-solving and innovative thinking.

READ MORE: CFO Salon: Finance practitioners need special traits

Illustrating the multifaceted nature of her role, Zhang shared insights into her daily responsibilities. From financial analysis and strategic planning to team management and operational oversight, her day exemplifies the diverse challenges and entrepreneurial skills required for effective CFO leadership.

Reflecting on her career path, Zhang highlighted the personal growth and satisfaction derived from overcoming new challenges. Her experience as a CFO has expanded her professional network and perspectives, fostering a strategic and entrepreneurial mindset instrumental for future career advancements.