James Dong Succeeds Bjarke Mikkelsen to Become CEO of Daraz Group

Daraz Group, the South Asian online retail entity under Alibaba Group Holding Ltd., has undergone a change in leadership. Taking the helm as the new Chief Executive Officer is James Dong, aged 44, who currently leads Alibaba’s Southeast Asian arm, Lazada Group SA. Dong assumes the role of acting CEO immediately, succeeding Daraz founder Bjarke Mikkelsen. In addition to his existing responsibilities, Dong will now oversee the operations of Daraz, according to a statement released by the company on Wednesday.

Mikkelsen’s departure adds to the list of executives leaving Alibaba, a once-dominant player in the Chinese tech scene. Alibaba’s international division, while experiencing rapid growth, faces heightened competition, especially in the Asian market. Lazada, under Dong’s leadership, is restructuring and trimming its workforce to stay competitive against rivals.

Alibaba’s acquisition of Daraz from Rocket Internet SE in 2018 marked the beginning of an international expansion, which now includes Lazada in Southeast Asia and Trendyol in Turkey. Daraz had previously cut 11% of its workforce in February.

Dong’s role extends beyond Daraz, as he aims to integrate the South Asian retailer with other entities within Alibaba’s international online shopping unit. Formerly an assistant to ex-CEO Daniel Zhang, Dong ascended to the position of Lazada’s CEO in 2022.

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