Christopher Smolak (郑林瀚)

Highly skilled international manager with a proven track record of entrepreneurial success. Technology expertise combined with a strong academic foundation across economics, finance, and business empowers me to develop and execute strategic growth initiatives across departments.

From the UK with full working rights and permanent residence in China (Green Card).

Education

2024-202x DBA (Doctorate Business Administration) Heriot-Watt University
2022-2023 Doctoral Research Methods Teesside University
2018-2020 MSc Business & Finance University of Essex
2019-2020 PGCE Education Leeds Beckett University
2013-2016 BA Financial Economics Coventry University

Experience

2025 - 202x Global Director of Operations Sealos (Labring)

Foundational role to architect the global strategy entirely from scratch. As the sole initial driver, I established all core operational workflows, created the sales and marketing pipelines, authored foundational product requirements, and built the complete analytics and SEO infrastructure where none existed. This foundational work culminated in recruiting and building the commercial team from zero, successfully launching the product, and generating its first wave of global market traction.

2022 - 2025 Director of Operations (Growth) AFFiNE (Toeverything)

Spearheaded the go-to-market strategy and drove continued growth and success at a SaaS startup. This multi-faceted role encompassing ownership of growth, operations, marketing, and user experience - encompassing social media management, SEO, and more. Organised and executed multiple overseas events, including product demonstrations and brand-building . Played a crucial role in bridging the gap between international markets and product/development teams, ensuring continuous product improvement based on market feedback.

2021 - 2021 Administrative Executive (Office of the President) Westlake University

Provided high-level administrative support to the President and senior leadership, ensuring efficient day-to-day operations and strategic initiatives for the university. Organisation of high-profile university events, including the successful opening of the new campus and distinguished guest visits. Championed international cultural exchange and university internationalisation efforts.

2017 - 20xx International Specialist Hangzhou

Established and nurtured a thriving international community that grew exponentially through the COVID-19 pandemic. Fostered cultural awareness and connection through content creation (including articles and events). Provided essential support, offering guidance and resources to navigate daily life, including assistance with general inquiries, legal information and other relevant issues.

2017 - 2021 Founding Director (Education & Operations) Hangzhou Training School

Founded and launched a training school catering to K-6 children. Developed and taught a comprehensive educational strategy and curriculum to ensure a stimulating and age-appropriate learning environment. Built a talented team by recruiting, onboarding, and training qualified educators. Oversaw the ongoing management and operations of the school, fostering a positive and productive learning environment.

2016 - 2021 International Director (Foreign Affairs) Hangzhou Private School

Developed, implemented and delivered a high-quality comprehensive English language curriculum in accordance with national regulations. Managed the recruitment, onboarding, and performance evaluation of foreign staff. Represented the school in educational lectures/seminars and competitions, sharing best practices and fostering collaboration across the city's educational network.

2013 - 2016 Founder: Bitcoin Trading Self-employed

Bootstrapped and developed automated trading and broker platforms, facilitating high-volume Bitcoin purchases for UK clients. Secured five-figure funding to support the development and growth of the of the project, becoming one of the UKs largest brokers.

2011 - 2016 Web & IT Consultant Freelance

Technology solutions consultant with expertise in computer building/setup, computer repair, web design, web hosting and full-stack development. Providing comprehensive IT support for businesses.

Certifications

2020 Leading People and Teams University of Michigan
2018 Tsinghua Chinese: Start Talking Tsinghua University
2017 Google Analytics Google
2017 Google: Online Marketing Fundamentals IAB Europe
2014 Adobe Certified Associate Certiport - Pearson VUE