Vision, Patience, and Perseverance in Global Innovation

Ted Zhang, Founder and CEO of DerbySoft, built one of the hospitality industry’s leading technology networks through conviction, patience, and a belief in connection. Leaving Silicon Valley to pursue his vision, he founded DerbySoft on the idea that every travel company would one day operate in a global data network. Zhang’s story embodies entrepreneurial perseverance, balancing ambition with humility and long‑term strategy. He sees globalization as both a challenge and an opportunity, requiring balance between global collaboration and local resilience. Through crises like the 2008 financial collapse and the 2020 pandemic, Zhang led with transparency and principles: customer first, employee safety, and financial prudence. His approach to setbacks - learning, adapting, and communicating clearly reflects his belief that leadership is about purpose over comfort. For Zhang, success is measured in resilience, trust, and the ability to keep moving toward a shared mission despite obstacles.

Notable Quotes/Highlights

• “Put your hand on your heart and ask what you truly believe.”
• “Globalization isn’t easy, but it makes us stronger together.”
• “Patience is power; step by step, results will come.”
• “Customer first, never let them be hurt by crisis.”
• “If you believe deeply, you will find the strength to persist.”

Closing Reflection

Zhang’s journey reminds us that conviction and patience sustain innovation, yet his story also shows that purpose gives every challenge meaning. He teaches us that when we anchor our work in service to customers, commitment to our people, and belief in a better future, setbacks cannot stop us. They simply strengthen our resolve. His example encourages leaders to stay steady through uncertainty, communicate with honesty, and trust that step-by-step progress creates lasting impact. Ultimately, Zhang’s path is a reminder that vision becomes real not through shortcuts, but through courage, humility, and the unwavering persistence to keep moving forward.

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