Simon Yiming Ma is a remarkable individual whose professional journey spans across various high-impact fields, including technology, finance, and writing. Best known for his speculative novel These Memories Do Not Belong To Us, Yiming’s story is one of continuous learning, growth, and impactful change. From his academic pursuits at prestigious universities to his work in global corporations like McKinsey & Company, Goldman Sachs, and Wealthsimple, his life trajectory is a reflection of not only intellectual rigor but also a deep passion for creativity and innovation.
Early Life and Education
Born in Shanghai, Yiming Ma’s academic path led him to some of the world’s most esteemed institutions. He began his formal education at the Ivey Business School at Western University in Canada, where he was recognized as an Ivey Scholar, graduating in the top 10% of his class. His leadership skills were evident early on, as he took on roles such as Co-President of the Ivey Pre-Business Association and was honored with the prestigious J.J. Wettlaufer Award.
After completing his undergraduate education, Yiming pursued an MBA at Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business, where he was selected as an Arjay Miller Scholar — a distinction awarded to the top 10% of MBA students. At Stanford, he further honed his leadership abilities by serving as the Vice-President of Video for the Arts, Media, and Entertainment Club (FOMC) and was a speaker at the Stanford GSB TED Talk Series. His time at Stanford solidified his reputation as a rising star, both in business and in creative circles.
However, Yiming’s academic journey didn’t end there. He also earned a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing from Warren Wilson College, where he was awarded the Carol Houck Smith Scholar title. This artistic endeavor led him to further develop his storytelling skills, culminating in his debut novel, These Memories Do Not Belong to Us.
A Career in Business
Before becoming an author, Yiming Ma spent over a decade in the corporate world. His experience ranges from management consulting to finance, with significant roles in leading global firms. After completing his MBA, Yiming joined McKinsey & Company as a management consultant in the Corporate Finance & Strategy Practice, working on high-stakes projects in New York. His work at McKinsey involved advising clients across multiple industries on complex business strategies.
After his tenure at McKinsey, Yiming transitioned to Goldman Sachs, where he worked as an investment analyst. Here, he gained a deep understanding of global markets and investment strategies, which gave him the financial acumen that would later benefit him in his entrepreneurial ventures.
Yiming’s career took another turn when he joined Wealthsimple, a fintech company revolutionizing how Canadians invest. As Director and Chief of Staff for the Chief Product Officer, Yiming contributed to Wealthsimple’s growth and success. His strategic input included launching a new research and development playbook, implementing a company-wide compensation review, and creating culture initiatives to foster employee wellbeing. His work at Wealthsimple made a tangible impact on its growth, helping democratize finance for millions of Canadians.
In addition to his time at Wealthsimple, Yiming also held an entrepreneurial role at Bertelsmann SE & Co. KGaA, a $20 billion media conglomerate that owns Penguin Random House. As part of Bertelsmann’s executive program, Yiming led growth initiatives across Canada, Germany, and the U.S. In his role, he worked on digital content strategies and product management, helping shape the future of media and publishing.
His experience in business, particularly in tech and media, has helped him become a well-rounded leader, equipped with both creative and strategic skills.
Transition to Writing
While his career in business was marked by success, Yiming’s true passion lay in writing. His debut novel, These Memories Do Not Belong to Us, is a speculative narrative set in a world where memories are bought and sold, and a reimagined China has taken over. The novel’s complex themes of memory, identity, and societal transformation are a reflection of Yiming’s broad intellectual influences, spanning from his roots in Shanghai to his experiences in the West.
The novel received widespread acclaim even before its official publication, being selected as a Spotify Editor’s Pick and featured in prominent publications such as The Washington Post, NPR, Apple Books, and Foreign Policy Magazine. Additionally, it earned praise from literary award winners like National Book Award and Pulitzer Prize laureates. These Memories Do Not Belong to Us has been hailed by Winnipeg Free Press as one of the most important books of the year.
In the book, Yiming explores the intersection of memory and power, delving into a society where the rich can buy and sell memories, altering the very essence of individual identity. This speculative approach to a reimagined China speaks to global issues surrounding capitalism, technology, and personal autonomy.
Yiming’s writing has been featured in several prestigious outlets, including The Guardian, The New York Times, Literary Hub, and Hazlitt. His short story, Swimmer of Yangtze, won the 2018 Guardian 4th Estate Short Story Prize, further cementing his place in contemporary literary circles.
Literary Influence and Style
Yiming’s literary style reflects his diverse educational and professional background. Drawing on his experiences in business, finance, and technology, his writing offers a unique perspective on societal issues, particularly in relation to memory and identity. His speculative fiction is both thought-provoking and deeply rooted in the cultural and political landscapes of modern society.
His work is often compared to authors like Kazuo Ishiguro and Margaret Atwood, who also explore themes of memory, loss, and the complexities of modern existence. However, Yiming brings a distinctly global perspective to his work, drawing on his experiences across multiple continents and cultures.
In his writing, Yiming blends elements of science fiction and literary fiction to create a narrative that is both imaginative and deeply grounded in the realities of contemporary life. His use of memory as a central theme speaks to our current age of information overload and technological advancement, where the very nature of personal identity is constantly shifting.
Volunteering and Social Impact
In addition to his professional and literary pursuits, Yiming has also been involved in various social initiatives. He served as a Non-Executive Board Observer for SPARK Schools, an organization in South Africa focused on providing high-quality education to low-income communities. SPARK Schools uses an innovative blended learning model to support primary school students, and Yiming’s involvement helped expand the initiative’s reach.
Yiming’s commitment to social change is further exemplified by his induction into the World Economic Forum as a Global Shaper. This honor recognized his work at the intersection of education and entrepreneurship, underscoring his belief in the transformative power of both sectors to improve global well-being.
Personal Philosophy and Future Plans
Yiming’s personal philosophy can be summed up in his dedication to lifelong learning and his pursuit of excellence across multiple domains. Whether in business, writing, or social impact, his approach has always been to push boundaries and challenge the status quo. This is evident in his transition from a successful career in finance and tech to a flourishing writing career, which reflects both his creative vision and his deep understanding of the world.
Looking ahead, Yiming plans to continue expanding his reach as an author, with future works already in the pipeline. He is also committed to mentoring emerging talent and contributing to the global discourse on technology, memory, and society. As he embarks on a U.S. book tour in 2025, his growing influence in the literary world is undeniable, and his work promises to make a lasting impact on readers around the globe.
Conclusion
Simon Yiming Ma’s life story is one of intellectual rigor, creative passion, and a deep commitment to making a difference. From his impressive academic achievements at Stanford and Warren Wilson College to his successful stints at McKinsey, Goldman Sachs, and Wealthsimple, his career has been marked by a diverse range of experiences. Yet, it is his work as an author that has brought him the most recognition. These Memories Do Not Belong to Us is a testament to his unique perspective on the human condition and his ability to blend literary artistry with speculative fiction.
FAQs
1. Who is Simon Yiming Ma?
Simon Yiming Ma is an author, former tech and finance executive, and the author of These Memories Do Not Belong to Us.
2. What is These Memories Do Not Belong to Us about?
It’s a speculative novel set in a world where memories are bought and sold, exploring themes of identity and power.
3. Where did Simon Yiming Ma study?
He studied at Stanford University, Ivey Business School, and Warren Wilson College, earning degrees in business and creative writing.
4. What was Simon Yiming Ma’s role in the tech industry?
He worked in senior positions at McKinsey & Company, Goldman Sachs, and Wealthsimple, leading teams in business strategy and innovation.
5. What other achievements has Simon Yiming Ma received?
He has been recognized as a Global Shaper by the World Economic Forum and received numerous literary awards.
