Following on from Industry Week, we'd like to shine the spotlight on the men and women who shape Soitec on a daily basis. Through a series of interviews, discover their inspiring career paths, the wealth of their talents and share the passion that drives them for their profession. It's a great opportunity to recognize their commitment and their essential contribution to the innovation and industrial excellence that are Soitec's strength!

Throughout the week, discover the portrait of a Group employee.

Could you introduce yourself and describe your role at Soitec?

My name is Haiying Deng and I'm originally from China. It's been an honor to be part of Soitec for over two years. Currently, I'm China General Manager, based in our Shanghai office. My role is to oversee sales, marketing and application engineering (FAE) for all Soitec product lines in China. I was recently promoted, and have been in this position for a month now. I joined Soitec two years ago as China Sales and Strategy Director. My day-to-day work is customer-focused: I meet with customers regularly, gathering their feedback to align Soitec's product capabilities with their needs. I also work closely with internal teams, including business unit (BU) managers and experts, to find tailor-made solutions. In short, I visit our customers, listen to their feedback, take part in meetings, and ensure consistency with our BU experts.

What was your background and why did you choose industry?

I've been working in the semiconductor industry for over 20 years. After graduating with a master's degree in electrical engineering, I started at BCD Foundry in Minnesota, where I launched my career. I then worked for ten years at TowerJazz as an applications engineer, before moving into business development and marketing at GlobalFoundries, where I stayed for five years. After a year with SMIC in China, I realized that I preferred working with international foundries and joined Soitec. This position allowed me to apply my knowledge and experience to better serve our customers, and I think it was an excellent choice.

What motivates you most in your job?

The dynamic nature of this job is what motivates me most. In China, change is rapid, and every day brings new opportunities and challenges. I enjoy being able to use my experience and skills to meet them, find solutions and grow the business.

What skills are essential in this industry?

Technical expertise and industry-specific knowledge are essential in high-tech fields like semiconductors, encompassing materials, processes, design and packaging. In sales and marketing, communication skills are also crucial to bridge the gap between technical know-how and customer needs. Knowing how to translate customer requirements into technical terms, and vice versa, is essential.

What are the three qualities you use on a daily basis?

Listening is essential, as is the ability to translate customer requirements into technical terms. Sometimes we speak different “languages”, so understanding the customer's perspective is crucial. Perseverance is also essential: every day brings its own challenges, and it takes optimism and determination to achieve our goals.

What are the three qualities you use on a daily basis?

Listening is essential, as is the ability to translate customer needs into technical terms. Sometimes we speak different “languages”, so understanding the customer's perspective is crucial. Perseverance is also essential: every day brings its own challenges, and it takes optimism and determination to achieve our goals.

How can we attract more young talent, especially women, to the industry?

An open and inclusive culture is essential to attract young talent, and Soitec is doing a remarkable job in this area. Encouraging creativity, innovation and dedication naturally attracts new generations. I feel privileged to be here, and I've noticed a growing respect for women in the industry. Their approach, often different and complementary to that of men, enriches the team dynamic and I'm delighted to see that there are so many of them at Soitec!

Any advice for someone just starting out in this field?

Always be ready to learn. Semiconductors are highly technical and involve an immense amount of knowledge. It can be intimidating for young engineers, but keep an open mind, remain humble and ready to learn. People are often happy to share their knowledge, so don't hesitate to ask questions, listen, and learn as much as you can.

What are the Soitec values that make you proud to work there?

Soitec is a fantastic company, which values our technical expertise and the importance of aligning customer needs with our internal objectives. Teamwork is essential for success in this competitive market. I appreciate the open culture and the support given to female engineers. Our team spirit, innovation and collective contribution make Soitec a unique and strong player in this industry.

An achievement of which you are particularly proud?

Looking back, I'm proud to have made the transition from engineering to commercial roles. I was an application engineer at TowerJazz for ten years, during which time I completed a technology management program. This enabled me to develop business and management skills, and move into sales and marketing development at GlobalFoundries. This change wasn't easy, but I managed to modify my mindset and skills. Today, I'm proud to have become a businesswoman, a role I find very fulfilling.

Any final words of encouragement for young people considering a career in this industry?

When I started my career 20 years ago, I wasn't afraid to ask questions and seek support from those around me. My advice to young people is not to hesitate to ask for help: there are plenty of talented, caring people around you, ready to support you!