H World Group Announces Board Changes with New Appointments and Departures

H World Group has appointed Justin Leverenz as a director of the board, Yi Zhang as an independent director and chairwoman of the audit committee, and Lei Cao as a member of the compensation committee. Tong Zhao and Jian Shang will step down from their roles as independent directors. Leverenz has experience as a senior portfolio manager at Invesco Developing Markets Fund, while Zhang has served as CFO of SINA Corporation and Weibo Corporation.

H World Group Limited (NASDAQ: HTHT), a key player in the global hotel industry, has announced significant changes to its Board of Directors effective August 15, 2025. The company has appointed Justin Martin Leverenz as a director, Yi Zhang as an independent director and chairwoman of the Audit Committee, and Lei Cao as a member of the Compensation Committee. Meanwhile, Tong Tong Zhao will transition from independent director to Board observer, and Jian Shang will step down from his positions as independent director, Audit Committee chairman, and Compensation Committee member.

Justin Martin Leverenz, who served as the Chief Investment Officer and a Senior Portfolio Manager at Invesco Developing Markets Fund from 2007 to 2025, brings extensive experience in investment management to the Board. Yi Zhang, currently the CFO of SINA Corporation, has served as an independent director and non-executive director of several prominent companies, including Yatsen Holding Limited and Swire Pacific Limited. Her background in financial management and auditing will be valuable to the Audit Committee.

Mr. Qi Ji, the Company’s founder and executive chairman, warmly welcomed the new directors, stating that their talents and experience will greatly benefit H World’s long-term sustainable growth. He also expressed gratitude to Ms. Zhao and Mr. Shang for their contributions during their tenure as directors.

H World Group operates 11,685 hotels with 1,142,158 hotel rooms in 19 countries, with brands ranging from HanTing Hotel to Song Hotels. The company’s business model includes leased and owned, managed, and franchised models, with a focus on consistent standards and platforms across its hotels.

References:
[1] https://www.stocktitan.net/news/HTHT/h-world-group-limited-announces-change-of-board-c3c6rpif9xf2.html