Shou Zi Chew, a Singaporean entrepreneur and tech executive, has captured global attention as the CEO of TikTok, the wildly popular video-sharing platform. With a net worth of $200 million and a fascinating journey through the tech and business world, Chew’s life is a testament to hard work, strategic vision, and resilience. Let’s dive into his story to understand how he became one of the most influential figures in technology.
Early Life and Humble Beginnings
Born on January 1, 1983, in Singapore, Shou Zi Chew grew up in a modest household. His father worked in construction, while his mother was a bookkeeper. These humble beginnings shaped Chew’s grounded personality and strong work ethic. He attended Hwa Chong Institution, a prestigious school in Singapore, before serving in the country’s mandatory National Service as a commissioned officer in the Singapore Armed Forces.
Chew’s academic journey took him to University College London (UCL), where he graduated in 2006 with a Bachelor of Economics degree. It was during this time that he honed his analytical and problem-solving skills, which would later serve him well in his career. He then pursued an MBA at Harvard Business School, graduating in 2010. At Harvard, Chew had the unique opportunity to intern at Facebook when it was still in its startup phase, gaining firsthand experience in the burgeoning tech world.
A Steady Rise in the Business World
After earning his degree from UCL, Chew began his career as an investment banker at Goldman Sachs in London, where he worked for two years. This role gave him deep insights into financial markets and corporate strategy. He then joined DST Global, the venture capital firm led by billionaire Yuri Milner. At DST, Chew played a pivotal role in investments in major tech companies such as Alibaba, JD.com, Xiaomi, and ByteDance—the company behind TikTok.
In 2015, Chew’s career took a significant turn when he joined Xiaomi as its Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Xiaomi, a leading Chinese consumer electronics and software company, went public in 2018 on the Hong Kong stock exchange. Chew’s leadership was instrumental in this milestone. A year later, he was promoted to President of International Business at Xiaomi, overseeing its global expansion.
Joining ByteDance and Leading TikTok
In March 2021, Shou Zi Chew made a strategic career move by joining ByteDance as its Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Shortly afterward, he stepped into the role of CEO at TikTok, replacing Kevin A. Mayer. This transition came at a critical time for TikTok, which was under intense scrutiny worldwide for potential data privacy and security concerns.
Chew’s leadership at TikTok has been marked by navigating complex regulatory challenges. Under his tenure, TikTok faced bans in several countries, including India, and was subject to investigations in the United States over allegations of data misuse and surveillance. Despite these challenges, Chew’s calm demeanor and strategic communication have helped TikTok maintain its position as a global social media powerhouse.
In 2023, Chew testified before the US House Energy and Commerce Committee about efforts to ban TikTok in the United States, addressing concerns about data privacy and national security. His testimony showcased his ability to represent TikTok’s interests while engaging with critical issues in public policy. He returned to Capitol Hill in 2024 to testify before the Senate Judiciary Committee on child Internet safety, underscoring his commitment to addressing pressing concerns related to the platform’s impact on younger audiences.
Family Life and Personal Values
At the heart of Shou Zi Chew’s success is his family. In 2008, he met Vivian Kao while they were both pursuing their MBAs at Harvard Business School. The couple eventually married and have two children. Known for their philanthropic spirit, Chew and Kao actively give back to their alma mater, contributing as donors and volunteers.
Despite his high-profile career, Chew prioritizes his family life, often describing them as his anchor. The family resides in Singapore, balancing their private lives with Chew’s demanding professional responsibilities.
Shou Zi Chew’s Net Worth and Legacy
As of 2025, Shou Zi Chew’s net worth is estimated at $200 million. This wealth reflects not only his roles at leading companies but also his strategic investments and financial acumen. Yet, Chew’s focus remains on innovation and addressing the broader implications of technology in society.
Chew’s journey—from a humble upbringing in Singapore to leading one of the world’s most influential tech platforms—is nothing short of inspiring. His story is a reminder that determination, adaptability, and a commitment to lifelong learning can pave the way to extraordinary achievements.
