Notable Roles | - Co-founder, Chairman & CEO, Qihoo 360 (360 Security Technology Inc.) |
Key Recognition | - Forbes China Rich List |
Background and Early Foundations
Zhou Hongyi was born in Huanggang, Hubei Province, China. He pursued his education at Xi’an Jiaotong University, earning both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in computer science. His academic background laid the foundation for his future endeavors in the tech industry.
Career Milestones and Impact
Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
1998 | Founded 3721, a Chinese-language search engine, which was acquired by Yahoo! in 2004 for $120 million. |
2004 | Appointed CEO of Yahoo! China; departed in 2005 due to strategic differences. |
2005 | Co-founded Qihoo 360, focusing on internet security solutions. |
2011 | Led Qihoo 360's IPO on the New York Stock Exchange. |
2016 | Privatized Qihoo 360 and delisted from NYSE. |
2018 | Relisted Qihoo 360 on the Shanghai Stock Exchange. |
- Net Worth: Estimated at $2.67 billion.
- User Base: Qihoo 360’s security products serve hundreds of millions of users globally.
- Business Model: Pioneered the freemium model in China’s cybersecurity sector.
Leadership Style and Influence
Zhou Hongyi is known for his assertive and hands-on leadership approach. His commitment to innovation and user-centric products has positioned Qihoo 360 as a leader in China’s tech industry. He emphasizes the importance of cybersecurity in the digital age and advocates for robust internet safety measures.
Legacy and Future Focus
Zhou Hongyi’s contributions have significantly shaped China’s internet security landscape. Under his leadership, Qihoo 360 has become synonymous with cybersecurity in China. Looking ahead, Zhou continues to focus on advancing cybersecurity technologies and expanding Qihoo 360’s global footprint.
