Watkins to chair China chamber

John D. Watkins, Jr., is chairman and CEO of Cummins (China) Investment Co., Ltd.

An alumnus whose Miami experience laid the foundation for his business career in China has won a high-profile appointment in Beijing.

John D. Watkins, Jr.,’82, has been elected the 2009 chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce in China (AmCham-China), a Beijing-based, non-profit organization representing the interests of some 2,700 companies and individuals doing business throughout China.

Although Watkins takes office at a time when financial challenges face both China and the U.S., 2009 marks the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries—a fact that keeps Watkins optimistic.

"The US and China have an opportunity to leverage our interrelated business platforms and strong bilateral ties to spur new economic development," said Watkins. "Together we can promote new markets in both countries that expand trade, investment, and innovation while supporting sustainable growth."

The anniversary of U.S.-China diplomatic relations has special significance for the new chairman. He recalls that, as a Miami freshman, he heard the news that President Jimmy Carter planned to normalize relations with China.

“I decided then and there that I would go live and work in China after graduation, and committed to use my remaining 3 ½ years at Miami to prepare for a lifetime in China,” he recalled, adding that he had been fascinated with the country and its culture since he was a young boy.

The experience that Watkins will bring to his new role is manifold. As chairman and CEO of Cummins (China)Investment Company, Ltd., he contributes to the success of a corporation that serves customers in more than 160 countries and has been active in East Asia since 1975. Cummins is widely recognized in China for its commitment to strengthening communities and individuals through its programs in education, the environment, and corporate philanthropy.

Prior to joining Cummins, Watkins held senior positions at Northwest Airlines in China for over 18 years. He joined Northwest after spending two years in China learning Mandarin.

Watkins also serves as director of the China People’s Foundation, a private non-profit organization that brings relief to those in need in China. It’s a natural involvement for a man who, at the age of six, expressed a desire to help China’s orphans.

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