GBA Series | Mark Qiu (FMBA 2022) brings dreams to fruition with advanced robotics platform at RoboSense
The relentless tide of artificial intelligence is surging forth, signalling the arrival of the AI era. Mark Qiu (FMBA 2022), CEO of RoboSense, has spearheaded his team’s efforts in the development of smart LiDAR (light detection and ranging) technology products, which have already become indispensable “eyes” for numerous smart cars on the road. Earlier this year, he led his company to a successful listing on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, aiming to harness the strategic advantages of the Greater Bay Area to propel his vision of an international-leading robotics platform.
Fostering corporate development through geographical advantages of Shenzhen and Hong Kong
A decade ago, Mark and his brother, Steven Qiu, along with their research team, established RoboSense in Nanshan, Shenzhen. Mark assumed responsibility for overseeing overall strategic implementation and business operations, all while exploring the potential commercial applications of LiDAR technology. Firmly believing in the unique advantages offered by the Greater Bay Area, he saw it as the perfect incubator for nurturing his entrepreneurial aspirations. “Shenzhen’s service-oriented approach to businesses is exceptional – it strikes a perfect balance between support and non-intrusion. Coupled with the concentration of top talent and resources, it creates an unparalleled business ecosystem.”
In 2016, he and his team made a significant mark by clinching the championship in the esteemed “Entrepreneurs Star” Contest, amidst a pool of over 3,000 start-ups. Mark chuckled, “Securing top positions in competitions certainly greases the wheels for soliciting financial support.” In just a few short years, his company ascended to the ranks of mainland China’s “unicorns”, with its technology finding application in the perception systems of numerous smart vehicles and robots across the nation.
On another front, Mark has strategically positioned himself to capitalise on the burgeoning opportunities in Hong Kong. He perceives the city’s status as an international financial hub, coupled with its mature business environment and strategic geographical advantages, as instrumental in facilitating the expansion of Shenzhen-based companies into global markets. “Hong Kong serves as the conduit for companies to establish global connections. Here, we can attract international talent and capital, fortifying our growth trajectory. This was a key factor in our decision to list on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.”
On 5 January this year, Mark ceremoniously inaugurated RoboSense’s debut on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, marking a significant milestone as the pioneer in LiDAR stocks and Hong Kong’s first IPO of the year. Leveraging its leading market position, the company witnessed substantial growth, as reflected in its stellar inaugural financial report.
RoboSense became the first IPO to debut in Hong Kong in 2024, with Mark (left) striking the “Gong” with his brother.
Long before going public, Mark returned to campus to deepen his understanding of management and finance at The Chinese University of Hong Kong. “I sought a comprehensive grasp of these areas, particularly with our upcoming debut on the capital market. It was a strategic decision to meet the developmental needs of our company.” Thirsty for knowledge, he pursued the FMBA programme at CUHK Business School in 2020 and graduated in 2022. Mark found the esteemed faculty particularly compelling, noting that he not only gained valuable insights from distinguished professors but also drew inspiration from the wealth of experience and advice shared among peers.
“I’d share workplace challenges with classmates, sparking lively discussions. We even had discussion around where to list our company – our teachers offered invaluable guidance too.” This camaraderie extended beyond the lecture halls. “To this day, I maintain close ties with both my professors and classmates, fostering personal and professional connections that endure.”
Members from CUHK Business School visited RoboSense for an exchange earlier.
In 2023, Mark was listed among Fortune China’s “40 under 40 business elite” list. However, he views this as an accolade for the entire RoboSense team. “I consider myself fortunate. Our achievements today are not the result of just one or two individuals. We were incredibly fortunate to assemble a team of like-minded individuals who shared our vision and worked together towards our common goals. That collective effort is what truly defines our success.” In his vision, leveraging LiDAR to advance robotics research transcends mere commercial benefits, personal advancement, or even transformative societal impact — it is a cause to which he is wholeheartedly committed, willing to dedicate his life.
Boundless potential in the robotics market
When asked about the future development of LiDAR and AI technology, Mark envisions their profound impact in the realm of robotics, particularly in domains such as smart cars, autonomous delivery vehicles, and humanoid robots. “With global vehicle sales averaging 80 million annually, coupled with millions more in lawn mowers, AGVs (automated guided vehicles, such as delivery robots), and the rapidly advancing field of humanoid robotics, I see immense potential for sensor applications in robotics, spanning from industrial to commercial to personal use. Our aspiration is to emerge as a leading global robotics technology platform within the next decade.”
Mark advised alumni to carefully analyse the strategic positioning of their business, assess both their own and their team’s strengths and weaknesses, and establish appropriate growth plans before embarking on entrepreneurship.
For alumni aspiring to entrepreneurship, Mark underscores the nuanced reality that many successful ventures are niche-specific. He encourages them to conduct a thorough introspection, comprehending not only their personal strengths but also those of their team. “It is imperative to harness the collective talents within the team to assess the feasibility and societal impact of potential business solutions. Only through a right objective can we discern and employ the most fitting resources to actualise our vision.”
CUHK Business School alumni are everywhere, transcending geographical and industrial boundaries. To explore more inspiring alumni stories, please click HERE.