G ao Dekang is a self-made Chinese billionaire and the founder and chairman of Bosideng International Holdings, one of China's largest and most famous manufacturers of down jackets and apparel. His is a classic story of Chinese entrepreneurship. He started his business in the 1970s from a small village workshop with just a handful of sewing machines.

He built Bosideng into a household name in China, becoming the dominant player in the down apparel market. He has focused on building a strong brand identity and a massive retail network, with thousands of stores across the country. He took the company public on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in 2007. He has also attempted to expand the brand internationally, opening a flagship store in London and showcasing his collections at major fashion weeks. His son is now involved in the family's business.