Meet Randall Flores | Author & Previous Managing Director of Asia for an Importer of Footwear

We had the good fortune of connecting with Randall Flores and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Randall, is there something you can share with us that those outside of the industry might not be aware of?
From my perspective as a supply chain manager, the challenges of maintaining flawless products at affordable prices would surprise people. Factory safety and social compliance require various audits covering worker salaries, age, dorm, and canteen conditions. I inspected where workers slept and the cleanliness of the kitchens. Different levels of merchandise and material testing are required at specific points during the manufacturing process. In addition, there are three-hour dinners to build relationships with factory managers and address issues. It takes persistence and a solid liver to ship a clean product with a low retail price.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
During the 80s, I chose a unique path by learning Mandarin and living in Beijing. Unfortunately, I arrived too early; only a handful of Western companies did business in the People’s Republic. Instead, I moved to Taiwan for two years before securing a position managing footwear production in mainland China. Through the job, I traveled across the country, collaborating with hundreds of factories on products for export to the US, Europe, Australia, and Asia. Along the way, I experienced massive changes, coped with aging infrastructure, and endured lengthy booze-filled meals and endless nights of karaoke. Because of rising labor costs and other issues, I handled an expanding factory base in Vietnam, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Indonesia, the Philippines, and more. My responsibilities as Managing Director of Asia also included overseeing retail sales. The journey of the product fascinated me, from conception to the stores. It gave me an understanding of the reciprocal relationship between manufacturing and sales.

The key takeaway from my twenty-five-year adventure is to travel and be open to new experiences outside of your comfort zone. It will make life fulfilling.

My recently published book, How I Lost My Kidneys in China, details my entire odyssey. It was an experience like no other, but try not to lose your kidneys like I did.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Disneyland and the beach are the top draws in Southern California, providing fun when the conditions are ideal. In the winter, skiing is also available. 

For food enthusiasts, Southern California is a paradise of culinary diversity. This region has everything from sizzling street tacos to gourmet fusion cuisines. If you’re up for a gastronomic adventure, I’d love to introduce you to this area’s wide range of eateries. I’ve organized taco crawls in the past, but be warned—you have to come hungry for that. 

I also suggest visiting top-notch museums like LACMA, The Broad, and Petersen Automotive.  

In addition, it would be a good idea to attend an evening concert at one of the illustrious music venues in Los Angeles, such as The Greek, Hollywood Bowl, or The Shrine. 

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
The opportunity to study at Peking University in 1990 opened the door to my twenty-five-year journey across China. It was the event that kick-started my career and gave me a goal. I would also like to thank the teachers who helped me perfect my language abilities and piqued my interest in all that China offered.

However, none of this would mean anything without a wife and kids to share it with.

Website: https://www.howilostmykidneysinchina.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/randallflores6476

Twitter: https://twitter.com/randallshanghai

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/randall.flores

Image Credits
Randall