Navigating the Digitalisation Journey

webinar| 11 March 2024

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In today’s competitive landscape, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the manufacturing sector are faced with the imperative to embrace digitalisation as a means to drive growth and sustainability. Whether capitalising on cost efficiencies or harnessing the power of unique product offerings, SME manufacturers are recognising the pivotal role of digitalisation in shaping their future trajectory. It is no longer a matter of choice, but a strategic necessity for professional managers to chart a course towards digital transformation. The questions that loom large are where to begin and how much to invest, among other crucial considerations.

In light of this pressing need, the EU SME Centre and European Union Chamber of Commerce in China have organised the workshop “Navigating the Digitalisation Journey: Empowering SMEs in the Manufacturing Sector” in February 2024. This event was tailored to the specific needs of small and medium-sized enterprises, offering a platform for industry leaders and professionals to delve into the intricacies of digitalisation within the manufacturing realm.

Digitalisation Journeys for SMEs

With a keen focus on the digitalisation progress of SMEs in the manufacturing sector, the workshop brought together SME representatives who shared insights, experiences, and best practices in their digitalisation journeys. Watch this video to gain valuable knowledge on the necessity of digitalisation for SMEs in the manufacturing industry, understand the essential steps for embarking on a digital transformation, and hear real-world case studies highlighting successful digitalisation practices.

Timeline

Introduction

– EU SME Centre activities

Road to the Future – How Can SMEs Prepare for the New Digital Era?

– Hao Lin, General Manager, abat China

Industry Leaders’ Digitalisation Experiments: Roadmap, Actions, and Reflections

– Jiang Nan, General Manager, LESER Safety Valve (Tianjin) Co., Ltd.

Industry Leaders’ Digitalisation Experiments: Roadmap, Actions, and Reflections

– Yang Xinyu, Vice President, Operations for ADB Safegate in China

Panel discussion

– The Necessity for SMEs to Embark on a Digitalisation Journey

Speakers and Panellists
Liam Jia
Team Lead, EU SME Centre

Liam Jia is a versatile professional with the past 8 years advising European businesses on market access and business strategies to China. He has a solid working experience in project and operations management, financial and risk control in the EU context.

Liam is an experienced speaker and author of publications on a range of topics, including the environmental sector, SME digitalisation and F&B distribution. Great team player, generating positive influence on teammates.

Hao Lin
General Manager, abat China

Hao Lin, General Manager of abat China, brings over a decade of expertise in IT consulting, with a focus on digitalisation and ERP systems in the manufacturing industry, particularly automotive. As an expert in digitalisation, he is dedicated to helping companies achieve a modern digital environment using advanced manufacturing knowledge.

With extensive experience in international projects between Germany and China, he has taken on the responsibility of expanding abat group’s China subsidiary. During the workshop, he will discuss the challenges and complexities that arise from digitalising SMEs, offering strategic advice and solutions based on his wealth of experience.

Jiang Nan
General Manager, LESER Safety Valve (Tianjin)

With nearly 25 years of dedicated engagement in the manufacturing industry, Mr. Jiang has developed a profound understanding of the ever-evolving landscape of manufacturing, with insights into various facets of the industry from hands-on operations to strategic leadership.

Mr. Jiang is a firm believer in the power of continuous improvement and striving to stay informed about industry trends to ensure our practices align with the latest advancements. In the era of rapid technological advancement, he is deeply passionate about guiding organisations toward digital transformation, a journey LESER has undertaken under his stewardship.

James Yang
Vice President of Operations, ADB Safegate

James Yang (Yang Xinyu) is Vice President of Operations for ADB Safegate in China. With over 30 years of experience in operations, project management, R&D, and business development, Mr. Yang has demonstrated exceptional leadership in driving growth and transforming the company to a high-tech enterprise.

Under his leadership, ADB Safegate Tianjin has achieved remarkable success with a 30% increase in revenue every year and has transitioned from an assembly/test workshop to a company that integrates R&D product validation, system simulation, and production.

James has great confidence in the Chinese market and works tirelessly to advance the company’s success.

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If you sign up today you’ll be able to

  • Access to tailored advice through our Ask-the-Expert tool
  • A library of over 200 publications
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  • A network of trade promotion and business support partners
  • A comprehensive database of service providers with contact information