Shou Zi Chew, born on January 1, 1983, in Singapore, is a prominent business executive best known as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of TikTok, the globally influential short-form video platform owned by ByteDance. Under his leadership, TikTok has experienced significant growth, becoming a central hub for creativity and entertainment worldwide.
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Early Life and Education
Chew’s upbringing in Singapore was modest; his father worked in construction, and his mother was a bookkeeper. He completed his early education at the prestigious Hwa Chong Institution. Following his mandatory military service as a commissioned officer in the Singapore Armed Forces, Chew pursued higher education at University College London (UCL), earning a Bachelor’s degree in Economics in 2006. His academic journey continued at Harvard Business School, where he obtained a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in 2010. During his time at Harvard, Chew interned at Facebook, gaining valuable insights into the burgeoning tech industry.
Professional Trajectory
Early Career
Chew’s professional career commenced at Goldman Sachs in London, where he worked as an investment banker from 2006 to 2008. He then joined the venture capital firm DST Global in 2010, playing a pivotal role in investments in prominent tech companies, including ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok.
Tenure at Xiaomi
In 2015, Chew transitioned to Xiaomi, a leading Chinese electronics company, serving as Chief Financial Officer (CFO). His tenure at Xiaomi was marked by significant achievements, including the company’s successful initial public offering (IPO) in 2018. He later assumed the role of President of International, overseeing Xiaomi’s expansion into global markets.
Leadership at TikTok
Chew joined ByteDance as Chief Financial Officer in March 2021 and was appointed CEO of TikTok in May 2021. As CEO, he has been instrumental in navigating the platform through complex regulatory landscapes, particularly concerning data privacy and security issues. His leadership has been characterized by efforts to enhance transparency and build trust with users and governments worldwide.
Personal Life
Chew is married to Vivian Kao, whom he met at Harvard Business School. Kao is an accomplished professional in her own right, serving as the CEO of Tamarind Global and as a member of the Board of Trustees at Wellesley College. The couple resides in Singapore with their two children.
TikTok’s Net Worth and Revenue
- TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, is valued at over $300 billion as of 2025.
- TikTok itself generates annual revenue of $18 billion through advertising, e-commerce, and live-streaming features.
- The platform has over 1.8 billion active users worldwide, making it one of the most valuable social media platforms.
TikTok: A Cultural Phenomenon
Since its international launch in 2017, TikTok has reshaped the social media landscape, offering a platform for users to create and share short-form videos across various genres. Its algorithm-driven content delivery has been a key factor in its widespread popularity, fostering a diverse and engaged global community.
Growth and Milestones
Under Chew’s leadership, TikTok has achieved significant milestones:
- User Base Expansion: As of 2021, TikTok reported over 1 billion monthly active users, reflecting its rapid growth and global appeal.
- Cultural Impact: The platform has become a breeding ground for viral trends, challenges, and has played a significant role in music and pop culture, influencing various aspects of entertainment and social interaction.
Challenges and Controversies
Despite its success, TikTok has faced scrutiny over data privacy concerns and its ties to China. Governments in several countries have raised questions about user data security and potential censorship. Chew has been at the forefront of addressing these concerns, engaging with policymakers and implementing measures to enhance data security and transparency.
Recent Developments
In January 2025, reports indicated that Chew planned to attend the inauguration of President Donald Trump, amid ongoing discussions about TikTok’s operations in the United States. This move was seen as an effort to engage directly with U.S. political leadership during a critical period for the company.
TikTok CEO’s Strategy Amid US Ban Threat – Strait Times
Shou Zi Chew’s journey from his early days in Singapore to leading one of the world’s most influential social media platforms underscores his significant impact on the global tech industry. His leadership continues to shape TikTok’s trajectory as it navigates the complexities of the digital age.
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FAQs
Q: Where does Shou Zi Chew live?
Shou Zi Chew resides in Singapore with his wife, Vivian Kao, and their two children.
Q: How much is Shou Chew worth?
As of now, specific details about Shou Zi Chew’s net worth are not publicly disclosed.
Q: How old is Shou Chew?
Born on January 1, 1983, Shou Zi Chew is currently 42 years old.
Q: Where is Shou Chew from?
Shou Zi Chew is from Singapore.
Q: Is Shou Zi Chew Chinese?
Shou Zi Chew is Singaporean.
Q: Who is sitting behind Shou Chew?
Specific details about individuals accompanying Shou Zi Chew at public events are not readily available.
Q: How tall is Shou Zi Chew?
Information regarding Shou Zi Chew’s height is not publicly available.
Q: Where did Shou Chew go to college?
Shou Zi Chew attended University College London, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Economics, and later obtained an MBA from Harvard Business School.
Q: How much money does Shou Zi Chew have?
Specific details about Shou Zi Chew’s personal wealth are not publicly disclosed.
Q: How rich is Shou Chew?
While exact figures are not available, Shou Zi Chew’s roles in major tech companies suggest significant financial success.
