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Billionaire Profile
Paul Lee
Global Rank
#1862

Image: dann_garcia | CC BY-SA 2.0 | via Wikimedia Commons

Paul Lee

CEO, Battery separators
UNITED STATES
Real-Time Net Worth
$2.219B
Estimated based on Battery separators stock value as of March 6, 2026
-0.61% (24h)
Age
68
Source
Battery separators
Industry
Manufacturing
Citizenship
UNITED STATES

Biography

Paul Lee is a US citizen and the Chairman of Yunnan Energy New Material (also known as SEMCORP Advanced Materials Group), a leading global supplier of lithium-ion battery separator film. His estimated net worth is 1.9 Billion as of 2024, derived primarily from his work in the manufacturing industry. His wealth is a result of the company's success in the rapidly expanding electric vehicle and energy storage markets. Lee's career has been marked by strategic investments in advanced materials and a focus on building robust supply chains within the United States. His leadership has positioned SEMCORP as a key player, supplying major battery makers like Panasonic, LG Chem and CATL, solidifying his position as a significant figure in the global manufacturing landscape.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 3/6/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Paul Lee's early life is not widely available in public records. However, his roots trace back to his education at the University of Massachusetts, where he earned a degree that equipped him with the knowledge to build SEMCORP.

Rise to Success

Lee co-founded SEMCORP Group with his brother, Tony Xiaohua Li. The company initially focused on manufacturing cigarette labels and packages. Recognizing the emerging demand for advanced materials, Lee strategically pivoted SEMCORP towards the production of lithium-ion battery separator film. This move proved pivotal, positioning the company as a significant supplier to major battery manufacturers.

Key Business Strategies

Key strategies employed by Lee include:

  • Strategic Investment: Significant investments in building a manufacturing facility in Sidney, Ohio, aimed at creating nearly 1,200 jobs.
  • Global Expansion: Expanding the business's presence globally to cater to the growing demands in the electric vehicle and energy storage sectors.
  • Partnerships: Securing major clients in the industry such as Panasonic, LG Chemical and Contemporary Amperex Technology (CATL).

Philanthropy

Information about Paul Lee's specific philanthropic initiatives and amounts are unavailable.

Career Milestones

1996

Co-founded SEMCORP Group

Co-founded SEMCORP Group, initially manufacturing cigarette labels and packages, and later pivoting to lithium-ion battery separator film.

2019

SEMCORP Overtakes Asahi Kasei

SEMCORP Group became the largest supplier of lithium-ion battery separator film in the world.

2022

Investment in Ohio

Announced plans for a $916 million manufacturing facility in Sidney, Ohio, creating nearly 1,200 jobs.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Unknown

Information not available

Undisclosed

Information on specific philanthropic activities not found.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

""The Sidney facility is one of the biggest investments in our company's history because we know the United States is strongly committed to building the supply chains for EVs and energy storage here at home." - Paul Lee"

Leadership Principles

Strategic Investment

Focus on investments in advanced materials to drive growth and market share.

Global Vision

Expanding business operations to cater to the growing demands of the electric vehicle and energy storage sectors worldwide.

Controversies & Challenges

2022

Home Surveillance by Police

Chairman Paul Lee was under home surveillance by Chinese police, the reason not disclosed by the company.

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