Prominent Taiwanese personality Janet Chia, or Chia Yeong-chieh (賈永婕), has been confirmed as Taipei 101’s new chairperson, making her the building’s very first celebrity director.
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Janet Chia, or Chia Yeong-chieh (賈永婕), is no stranger to making a name for herself: over the years she’s gained prominence as model, TV-host, philanthropist, and businesswoman. As of Thursday, she’s adding “head of operations at Taipei 101” to the list.
The news leaked from Chia’s own Instagram account, where she posted a photo of herself in front of the iconic landmark, with the caption “Preparing to take on new challenges in the second half of life." However, the Finance Ministry also confirmed Thursday, that Chia will take over as the sixth chairperson.
Chia was a strong candidate for the position from the start. Born into a well-off military family, she graduated in Communications from Coventry University in the U.K. Currently married to prominent businessman Wang Chao-chieh (賈永婕), she found her own path to success: working as a model and host, founding a wedding dress brand, and later a charity organization in her own name.
According to marketing experts, many are curious to see how she will use her connections in the entertainment industry, combined with the resources provided by the mall, and her extensive business acumen, to help Taipei 101’s operations reach new heights. As director, Chia’s goal is to give Taiwan more international visibility, something she’s already begun, by inviting South Korean actor Hyun Bin to Taiwan for promotional events.
With Chia at Taipei 101’s helm, the outside world is sure to pay attention as she makes her own mark once again, on one of Taiwan’s most famous attractions.
Amanda Stephens for RTI News