Procurement Manager
Since July 21, 2020, Henry Huang, Procurement Manager at Averna China, brings a unique blend of technical expertise and insight to his role. With a strong academic foundation—holding bachelor’s degrees in both Mechanical Manufacturing and Automation, and Purchase and Supply Management, he combines precision with a deep understanding of global logistics. Off-duty, he is a weekend footballer, where strategy, quick thinking, and teamwork mirror his professional playbook.
Q: Where were you before Averna and how did you get here?
A: Before joining Averna, I led the procurement department at a U.S.-owned enterprise, supporting new project introductions and localization efforts. One day, while exploring new opportunities online, I came across Averna’s job posting. It felt like a perfect match for my experience and aspirations. I applied, went through the interview process, and joined the team. Since then, I have felt honored and truly valued as part of the team.
Q: What attracted you to the Logistics Department?
A: I have always believed that logistics and procurement go far beyond simply buying parts. What attracted me to the L&P department is its transformative role. It is like a magician turning digital designs into physical reality. We act as a bridge between customers and vendors, translating expectations into tangible results and creating real value for our customers.
To be an effective purchaser, negotiation skills alone are not enough. You also need a solid grasp of technical principles like mechanics, electronics, and optics. This knowledge helps me negotiate effectively. For instance, when buying CNC equipment, understanding the drawings allows me to estimate costs and challenge quotes, ensuring we get fair pricing.
Procurement, to me, is a strategic discipline, where every detail matters and every decision shapes the outcome.
Q: What is your favorite aspect of your current role?
A: My favorite is the sense of achievement from solving problems. Every day brings new challenges, whether it is a supply chain hiccup or a cross-border coordination issue. When faced with complex procurement and logistics issues, our collaborative efforts across regions enable me to quickly analyze situations and develop creative solutions that lead to smooth and efficient outcomes. Recognition from customers and colleagues is especially rewarding. It feels like scoring a winning goal in a fast-paced, team-driven football match, where shared success brings genuine satisfaction and continued motivation.
Q: What do you think are the most challenging tasks you are responsible for in our international company?
A: Working across time zones and cultures is definitely one of the biggest challenges. It is not just about language—it is about deep understanding of different business practices, working styles, and regulatory landscapes. My goal is to ensure that all relevant parties from the Asia-Pacific to Europe to the Americas successfully align, synchronize information, and reach consensus at critical moments.
Q: Have you had any key mentors or people who deeply influenced who you are, what you believe in and what you’re committed to in your work and life? Tell me about them.
A: Yes, absolutely. I credit a university professor with shaping my approach to thinking and problem-solving. He taught me the importance of systematic thinking by showing how decisions affect interconnected systems. His focus on detail and responsibility continues to guide me in both at work and at home. This concept is deeply rooted in my values, and whether I am analyzing supply chain risks or making important private decisions, I strive to practice this comprehensive and responsible way of thinking.
Later in my career, I was also very fortunate to meet a leader who was willing to trust and guide me. He taught me how to remain calm under pressure and always communicate with people in a respectful manner, deeply analyzing the root cause of problems and finding the best solution.
Q: Do you feel you achieve a good work/life balance?
A: Yes. I believe work-life balance is a dynamic adjustment process, not a fixed state. Working in an international environment sometimes requires flexibility, such as participating in meetings outside of regular working hours, which is especially important in a global role. Football helps me unwind and stay energized—it is my way of releasing stress and reconnecting with myself. I think working hard is about building a better life, and that better life, in turn, fuels my dedication to work.
Q: What are you most proud of?
A: I am proud of leading my team to solve procurement challenges that others have struggled to address. Whether it was sourcing unavailable products or expediting urgent deliveries, we respond quickly and effectively. Our efforts left a strong impression on customers and helped pave the way for future growth. The teamwork spirit and the solid results have made me feel extremely proud.
Q: What have you learned from Averna that will be a takeaway for the rest of your life?
A: At Averna, the most valuable culture that I got to experience is Client Focus, Teamwork, Innovation, and Performance. True professional ability is not being intimidated by complexity, but extracting clear, reliable, and easy-to-implement solutions through in-depth analysis, innovative tools, and efficient team collaboration. This thinking mode of simplifying complexity and problem-solving ability will be an asset for me in any industry or role I take on in the future.