Shannan Stevenson, president of P&G, Greater China, comes from a family that has enjoyed a long relationship with China. Indeed, his mother's bedroom at her home in the UK boasts a picture of a Chinese woman and Chinese calligraphy on the wall.
In the late 19th century, Stevenson's great-great-grandfather traveled from Scotland to Shanghai to trade wine and mineral water.
His grandfather took over the business and established a branch in Hong Kong. His mother was born in Shanghai and brought up by a nanny from Wuhan, named Kunyi, the subject of the bedroom picture.
"All my life I knew about Kunyi. Although she had passed away, she was always this wonderful lady who looked after my mother," Stevenson said.
Stevenson represents the fifth generation of his family's connection with the Middle Kingdom. On May 1, 2010, the former vice-president of P&G West Europe Laundry, took over from Daniela Reccardi officially to become president of P&G Greater China.
He has worked in the company for 23 years and previously served in several departments, including fabric care, health and beauty care, baby care and feminine care, across different countries including the UK, Turkey, Russia, and Egypt.
"This is not just a posting for me. It is not just some other place. I grew up hearing stories about China," he said.
After working and living in China for half a year, he has formed his own understanding about the country: It is a land of opportunities.
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