GDS Holdings Limited (NASDAQ: GDS) announced the resignation of independent director Lim Ah Doo and the appointment of Hua (Kathy) Chen as his replacement, both effective May 20, 2026.

Lim resigned from his position as independent director and chairman of the audit committee for personal reasons after serving in these roles since August 2014. The company said he played a role in strengthening corporate governance, financial oversight, and audit standards during his 11-year tenure.

Chen will serve as independent director and chair of the audit committee. She currently works as managing partner and chief financial officer at SB China Venture Capital, a position she has held since joining the firm in 2010. Her previous experience includes serving as director and chief financial officer of Volaris Capital within Credit Suisse and working as a tax consulting manager at Arthur Andersen LLP and Ernst & Young LLP.

Chen holds undergraduate degrees in accounting and finance from NYU Stern School of Business and a master's degree in taxation from Fordham University. She is a certified public accountant and previously served as independent board member and audit committee chair of Technovator International Ltd. from September 2011 to May 2023.

GDS confirmed that Chen meets independence criteria under NASDAQ and Hong Kong Stock Exchange listing rules and requirements for audit committee service. The board composition remains compliant with regulatory and listing requirements following the changes.

"We are confident that her extensive expertise will further enhance the Board's expertise and maintains its commitment to strong, independent oversight," said William Huang, chairman and chief executive officer of GDS, according to the company's statement.