Binance Appoints Co-Founder Yi He as Co-CEO Alongside Richard Teng Amidst Leadership Reshuffle & CZ Pardon

A Pillar Since Inception

Yi He, who co-founded Binance with CZ in 2017 and is the mother of his three children, has long been an influential figure within the organization, albeit with a relatively low public profile. Her elevation to co-CEO positions her officially at the forefront of the crypto giant. Richard Teng lauded her contributions, stating, "She has been there from the start, and she has been driving a lot of changes and driving the growth of Binance."

Complementary Leadership for a Pivotal Time

The new co-CEO structure aims to leverage "complementary perspectives and a shared vision" between He and Teng, as emphasized by Yi He herself. In a company statement, Binance highlighted He's "fundamental role in shaping Binance's vision and culture," focusing on user needs and innovation. Teng brings a strong background in financial regulation, having held senior roles at Singapore's central bank, a crucial asset given the ongoing regulatory scrutiny faced by Binance and the broader crypto industry.

Unveiling the "Crypto Queen"

Despite her quiet public persona, media reports have often depicted Yi He as a "Crypto Queen" with considerable behind-the-scenes influence. Her social profiles list her most recent public position as Chief Customer Service Officer. However, her involvement runs deeper. Federal investigations in 2020 reportedly sought records concerning her and other executives regarding anti-money laundering compliance and the establishment of Binance's U.S. entity.

In 2024, during CZ's trial, Yi He penned a letter requesting leniency, identifying herself as his business partner and the mother of his children. She revealed meeting CZ at a blockchain event in 2014, three years before Binance's founding, where she worked at OKCoin and recruited him. Her letter offered a rare glimpse into their personal and professional journey, stating, "As CZ's life partner, I've known him for nearly ten years, so I understand a side of him that's often overlooked."

Prior to her crypto career, a 2023 Wall Street Journal report noted Yi He's past as a Chinese talk-show host. She entered a relationship with CZ while working together in Shanghai and reportedly assumed broad control over Binance's marketing and investment divisions. This latest appointment solidifies her critical role as Binance navigates its future, responsibly expanding its global presence and driving sustainable innovation.