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John Fargis
Founder, Principal at BYG_ADVANTAGE
Professional Background
John Fargis stands out as a highly accomplished senior executive with over twenty years of extensive experience in general management within the burgeoning China market. His leadership acumen and strategic vision have made him a prominent figure in Asia's technology landscape, having successfully run operations for several software small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Notably, his executive prowess contributed to the acquisition of three distinct companies by Google, marking significant milestones in his career. As the Co-founder and Principal of BYG_Advantage, he excels in guiding market entry and driving sales acceleration strategies for technology firms across the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region.
In addition to his role at BYG_Advantage, John serves as the President of the BYG Group, where he continues to foster innovative approaches to market penetration in a highly competitive environment. His comprehensive experience encompasses a diverse array of sectors including telecom infrastructure, speech processing, video codecs, video conferencing, embedded touch technology, geo-location technology, open-source data architecture, and IT systems management software. His hands-on expertise in managing international teams demonstrates his exceptional capability in leading diverse groups across cultural boundaries.
John's illustrious career is also underpinned by significant board-level contributions, where he currently holds positions as a director and board member for numerous regional technology companies. These roles allow him to leverage his extensive industry knowledge and network to navigate complex business challenges.
Education and Achievements
John's educational background is as impressive as his professional journey. He began with a Bachelor’s degree with Honors in Medieval Studies from Wesleyan University, which laid the foundation for his critical thinking and analytical skills. He later pursued a Masters in Special Education from Hunter College, a choice that reflects his commitment to fostering understanding and supporting diverse learning needs. Continuing his academic excellence, John attained a Masters in Law and Diplomacy, focusing on International Relations with a particular emphasis on East Asia and negotiation, from the renowned Fletcher School at Tufts University, in collaboration with Harvard University. This educational blend not only enriches his strategic capabilities but also enables him to effectively communicate across various business settings.
As part of his professional development, John has undergone training to become a GBN-trained scenario practitioner, further honing his skills in strategic foresight. Additionally, he is a graduate of the Program on Negotiation at Harvard Law School, acquiring advanced negotiation strategies that are pivotal in his myriad business dealings across Asia.
Notable Contributions
John Fargis first ventured into China as a Henry Luce Scholar in 1993, marking a significant turning point in his career. His groundbreaking role as the first foreigner permitted to work in a Chinese reform school since policy reform showcases his pioneering spirit and willingness to embrace challenges. Before his foray into international business, he spent four years as a special education schoolteacher in New York City, a role that undoubtedly nurtured his leadership and interpersonal skills.
Throughout his career, John has held numerous pivotal positions including Executive Vice President and General Manager of North East Asia at Kaseya, Vice President of Sales and General Manager for Asia at On2 Technologies, and General Manager of Asia Pacific at Global IP Solutions (GIPS). He has also informed business strategies as the CEO of SiMa Systems, Principal at Chinan Limited, Business Development Manager at Telephia, and a consultant for the Center For Applied Research and Motorola. His extensive experience in various capacities has provided him with a well-rounded perspective on the intricacies of business operations and the dynamics of international markets.
Beyond his executive roles, he has made valuable contributions to academia as an adjunct professor at Hult International Business School, where he shares his rich insights on emerging markets and Chinese history. His ability to intertwine practical industry experience with educational pursuits enriches the learning experiences of students eager to thrive in global business environments.
Moreover, John is an avid blogger, documenting his insights about regional politics, the arts, and the ever-evolving fabric of life in emerging China on his platform, DustyBrine. His writings provide an engaging narrative that reflects his deep-seated understanding of socio-cultural dynamics and their impact on business and education.
Personal Life and Values
John currently resides in Beijing with his wife and two daughters, balancing his professional endeavors with his commitment to family. His multifaceted career, rooted in both education and practical business acumen, not only positions him as a leader but also as a mentor to many aspiring professionals in the field. John's journey through diverse cultural landscapes has inspired him to foster collaborative environments that bridge the gaps between different cultures and business practices. Through his work, he continues to influence the next generation of leaders in the technology sector and beyond.
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