Zhang Yiming

Zhang Yiming is a Chinese entrepreneur best known as the founder of ByteDance, the technology company behind the global short-video sensation TikTok. Born in Longyan, Fujian province, Zhang studied software engineering at Nankai University before beginning his career at companies such as Microsoft and the travel site Kuxun. In 2012, he launched ByteDance with the vision of using artificial intelligence to revolutionize the way people consume and share information. His early success came with the news aggregation app Toutiao, which used algorithms to personalize content feeds, and later with TikTok, which grew into one of the most downloaded apps in the world and reshaped digital entertainment and social media.

Under Zhang’s leadership, ByteDance became one of the most valuable startups globally, expanding beyond China with a diverse portfolio of apps and innovative technologies. Known for his quiet and analytical leadership style, Zhang focused heavily on product development and scaling AI-driven platforms rather than courting publicity. In 2021, he stepped down as CEO of ByteDance, citing a desire to focus on long-term strategy and personal learning, though he continues to influence the company as a key founder. His work has made him one of the most influential figures in the global tech industry, often compared to Silicon Valley’s leading visionaries for his ability to combine technical insight with business acumen.