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In the crisp morning air of Liyang, at precisely 7:40 AM, Production Manager Meng Lei begins his day.
For the past 17 years, he has dedicated his career to fine-tuning production pipelines and advancing manufacturing techniques. “Success is not just about meeting targets but about continuous learning and improvement,” he says.
A native of Rizhao, Meng Lei embarked on his career at Asia Symbol, where he underwent an intensive three-month training program covering machine operation, automation, and quality control. A defining moment of this training was the mentorship program, where each trainee was assigned a dedicated mentor. Under their careful guidance, Meng Lei gained a solid foundation in the fibre industry.
“There was always an emphasis on teaching before doing. Our mentors ensured we were 100 per cent confident before taking responsibility, which was incredibly reassuring. This approach not only built technical expertise but also instilled a strong culture of safety in the factory.”
As the industry evolved, so did Meng Lei. In 2018, while working as a Process Optimisation Engineer at Asia Symbol, he was nominated to join RGE’s pioneering team to establish a lyocell production plant. As the Solvent Recovery Deputy Superintendent, he managed daily operations and spearheaded strategies to improve recycling efficiency. Stepping into uncharted territory, Meng Lei spent six months immersing himself in the complexities of large-scale lyocell production, a fibre known for its sustainability and low environmental impact.
“I’m grateful for the trust RGE placed in me. Their confidence fueled my drive to learn and lead by example.”
His dedication bore fruit in 2020 when Sateri successfully launched its first batch of lyocell, securing its position as one of the world’s foremost lyocell producers.
Meng Lei’s journey reflects the growth of the lyocell industry.
Building on this success, in 2022, Meng Lei transitioned to the large-scale lyocell production facility in Liyang, where he took on the formidable task of leading a team of 350. Recognising his leadership potential, Meng Lei was selected for the prestigious Future Leaders Programme (FLP), a two-year initiative designed to cultivate top executives.
“FLP equipped me with critical skills in human capital management, finance, and supply chain operations, enabling me to become a more effective and confident leader. The opportunity was rare – only one or two individuals from each business group were selected – so I made the most of it. It broadened my perspective and deepened my understanding of the business beyond just operations.”
As Meng Lei continues to push the boundaries of lyocell production, he takes pride in seeing RGE on the cusp of becoming the world’s leading lyocell producer. His journey – from a trainee under mentorship, to a leader shaping an industry – embodies the spirit of perseverance, adaptability, and vision. “I have grown alongside this industry, and I look forward to driving its future.”
With his expertise, leadership, and unwavering dedication, Meng Lei stands as a testament to what can be achieved through continuous learning and a relentless commitment to excellence.
Find out more about careers at RGE here.
