Recently in Beijing, it was announced that Xie Chang’an, the CEO of PepsiCo Greater China and Chief Growth Officer for Asia Pacific, has been recognized for her remarkable leadership by being named one of the most influential businesswomen in Asia Pacific and China on Fortune’s 2024 list. This accolade highlights her status as one of the most prominent business leaders of the year.
Xie Chang’an’s recognition on the Fortune (China) list, which began in 2010, aims to showcase the wisdom, courage, persistence, and confidence of women leaders in the Chinese business landscape. The list not only emphasizes the value created by female executives but also their significance in both the Chinese and global economies, focusing on how they harness their power to influence and shape the future.
Since taking the helm of PepsiCo’s Greater China operations in 2021 and becoming the Chief Growth Officer for Asia Pacific in March this year, Xie has led the company’s growth strategies, driving marketing innovation and product development. Her efforts in the Chinese market have provided valuable insights that feed back into the global structure.
The recognition of Xie on the inaugural Fortune Asia Pacific Most Influential Business Women list underscores her ability to propel PepsiCo forward while fostering a lasting impact through her commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. She has cultivated a passionate and innovative workplace that inspires her team to achieve peak performance. By demonstrating the power of inclusive leadership, she has paved the way for talent development, motivating future leaders.
In the face of structural adjustments and increasing competition in the Chinese consumer market over the past year, Xie has remained steadfast in her commitment to the region, guiding PepsiCo through these cycles with a “long-termism” approach. Her exceptional leadership, forward-thinking vision, and keen insights have enabled strong performance in the Chinese market, which has also benefited PepsiCo’s international operations. Notably, in 2024, PepsiCo announced the establishment of its first food base in China’s northwest region with a significant investment of 1.3 billion yuan in Shaanxi, while the Shandong production base officially launched in September. This investment marks the fifth consecutive year of opening or expanding a food factory, showcasing PepsiCo’s strong commitment to the Chinese market.
To achieve dual goals of “high growth” and “high quality,” Xie has a deep understanding of consumer needs in China. She champions a consumer-centric philosophy, leading her team to develop a series of localized innovations that resonate with the market. From the no-sugar “生” cola, Quaker rice-free porridge, and probiotic oatmeal, to Lay’s freshly baked rice cakes, local snacks, and heritage-themed cans, each product reflects PepsiCo’s bold breakthroughs in product and brand experience while delivering fresh, resonant experiences to consumers.
On the management front, Xie firmly believes that “talent drives PepsiCo’s success.” She is committed to empowering employees from multiple dimensions, with a particular focus on developing young professionals and women in the workplace. PepsiCo Greater China continues to invest in talent development, promoting a value proposition of “Be unstoppable, be impactful.” Programs like management trainees, Tomorrow’s Journey, comprehensive training, and mentorship initiatives cultivate a new generation of “Pepsi Leaders,” ensuring a solid talent foundation for the company’s ongoing leadership in the Greater China market. Additionally, Xie places great importance on organizational vitality, actively engaging with employees to encourage diverse creative expression and innovative thinking. Under her leadership, PepsiCo has received multiple accolades as an “Outstanding Employer” and recognized as one of the best places for women to work.
In 2023-2024, Xie was also featured twice on Forbes’ list of the top 100 outstanding businesswomen in China.
