Early Life
Chen Bang was born in 1965 in Changsha, Hunan, China, into a military family. At 17, he was rejected from the army due to color blindness. This setback didn't deter him; he worked in a state-owned enterprise before starting his entrepreneurial journey.
Rise to Success
Chen's career took a significant turn in 1997 when he met a retired ophthalmologist. This meeting sparked his interest in ophthalmology. In 2001, he founded Aier Private Eye Hospital, which grew into China's largest ophthalmology chain. His strategic vision led to the acquisition of Clinica Baviera SA, the largest eye clinic group in Europe, in 2017.
Key Business Strategies
Chen focused on integrating new technologies and practices in his hospitals. He launched the Aier Eye Hospital Group Research Fund in 2012, investing $7 million annually. Aier also established partnerships with universities, and specialized in ophthalmology to create a strong identity in a previously underdeveloped sector.
Philanthropy
Chen is deeply committed to philanthropy, with initiatives for free cataract surgeries and rural outreach programs. Under his guidance, Aier Eye Hospital Group has helped restore the sight of numerous individuals, particularly in underserved regions.