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How Samsung’s Business Support Transformation is Reshaping Its Leadership Structure

General Report November 22, 2025
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

  1. Evolution from Task Force to Permanent Business Support Office
  2. Key Leadership Transitions in the Support Function
  3. Impacts on Governance and Decision Coordination
  4. Strategic Implications for Organizational Agility
  5. Comparative Perspective: Multi-CEO and Support Roles
  6. Conclusion

1. Summary

  • In November 2025, Samsung Electronics marked a pivotal transition with the conclusion of its eight-year Business Support Task Force, which was originally established in response to governance challenges following a significant scandal. The formation of a permanent Business Support Office under the leadership of Park Hark-kyu, following the advisory shift of Vice Chairman Chung Hyun-ho, indicates a strategic commitment to enhancing governance and operational efficiency. This strategic overhaul aims to streamline coordination across various affiliates while embedding clear authority and accountability mechanisms. The Business Support Task Force, initially formed in late 2017 as a provisional measure, successfully facilitated inter-affiliate collaboration during turbulent times, paving the way for improved operational synergy. However, its temporary nature underscored the need for a more resilient governance framework as Samsung navigated complex global markets. As we reflect on these changes, it is critical to emphasize how the evolution of Samsung's organizational structure aligns with industry-wide trends toward agility and decisive governance. The shift from task force to a permanent office not only signifies a response to previous challenges but also positions Samsung to leverage its improved performance for future growth.

  • The restructuring endeavors are also indicative of a broader desire within Samsung to institutionalize strategic coherence, with the new Business Support Office serving as a central hub for decision-making. The executive leadership duo of the co-CEO model and the expert guidance from Park facilitate a more agile environment adept at responding swiftly to evolving technological advancements. By reinforcing critical functions within the Business Support Office, Samsung is poised for quicker execution of corporate initiatives, which is essential in a fast-paced and competitive technological landscape. This transformation is expected to cultivate a culture of enhanced collaboration and accountability across various divisions, enabling Samsung to capitalize on emerging opportunities effectively. Moreover, with empirical performance metrics now serving as a key driver in decision-making, the company has solidified its foundation to innovate and adapt in the face of changing market demands.

2. Evolution from Task Force to Permanent Business Support Office

  • 2-1. Origins and role of the Business Support Task Force

  • The Business Support Task Force (B STF) was established in November 2017 as a response to the void created by the dissolution of Samsung’s Future Strategy Office, which had functioned as the conglomerate’s control tower. The B STF was tasked with coordinating strategic initiatives across Samsung's various affiliates, ensuring synergies and smoother operations. It emerged during a tumultuous time for the company, particularly after the political scandal that rocked South Korea in 2016, leading to increased scrutiny on corporate governance and operational transparency.

  • Over its eight-year lifespan, the B STF played a pivotal role in shaping the strategic direction of Samsung Electronics. It focused on enhancing collaboration between affiliates, which in turn improved operational efficiencies. However, the B STF was always intended as a temporary solution, aimed at stabilizing and streamlining operations following the previous governance crisis. Many within the industry viewed the B STF as a successor to the more centralized Future Strategy Office, although Samsung's leadership made clear that it did not intend for the B STF to evolve back into a powerful control tower.

  • 2-2. Rationale for converting to a permanent office

  • The decision to transition the Business Support Task Force into a permanent Business Support Office was formally announced on November 7, 2025, after a series of internal deliberations on how to better position Samsung Electronics within an evolving market landscape. This change was motivated by the necessity to continue improving organizational agility and to formalize the authority granted to the support functions that the B STF had previously managed.

  • Key stakeholders within the company recognized that as Samsung's performance improved, particularly with the return to solid financial health, there was a need for a more resilient and permanent structure to address the complexities of a global market. Transforming the B STF allowed Samsung to build on its previous work while establishing clearer lines of accountability and governance without reverting to a control tower model. The new office is designed to better address the challenges posed by an evolving operational environment while ensuring that support functions remain closely aligned with executive leadership.

  • 2-3. Timeline of the structural change

  • The transformation from a temporary task force to a permanent office marks a significant evolution within Samsung's structural framework. Initial discussions regarding this transition began in mid-2025, coinciding with the observation of improved operational performance across the company. On July 7, 2025, the initial plans for organizational restructuring were unveiled, laying the groundwork for the major changes that would follow.

  • Following these discussions, the official announcement on November 7, 2025, confirmed the disbandment of the B STF and the establishment of the permanent Business Support Office, under the leadership of Park Hark-kyu. This timeline highlights the company's strategic approach to reinforcing its organizational structure in a way that keeps pace with market demands while ensuring that it is better equipped to handle future challenges.

3. Key Leadership Transitions in the Support Function

  • 3-1. Chung Hyun-ho’s tenure and transition to advisory role

  • Chung Hyun-ho's tenure at Samsung Electronics has been marked by significant contributions over the years, notably as an influential strategist within the company's complex structure. Stepping into the role of head of the Business Support Task Force (TF) in November 2017, he effectively became the orchestrator of inter-affiliate cooperation and strategic planning after the disbandment of the Future Strategy Office amid a corruption scandal. During his tenure, he not only played a pivotal role in guiding Samsung through turbulent times but also focused on nurturing governance frameworks that aligned the various business units under Samsung's expansive umbrella. As of November 2025, it was announced that Chung has stepped back from frontline management and assumed an advisory role to Chairman Lee Jae-yong. This transition marks a significant moment in Samsung’s leadership narrative—a move seen as a deliberate strategy to shift the focus toward emerging leaders within the organization, allowing Chung to support the company in a capacity that leverages his extensive experience while relinquishing day-to-day operational oversight.

  • 3-2. Appointment of Park Hark-kyu as head of the Business Support Office

  • Park Hark-kyu’s appointment as the head of the newly established Business Support Office represents a strategic decision to rejuvenate Samsung’s leadership while enhancing its governance capabilities. Following Chung Hyun-ho's transition, Park, a seasoned executive with a strong background in financial management and operational strategy, stepped into this crucial role. Having held key financial positions—including Chief Financial Officer at Samsung's Device Solutions division—Park brings a wealth of knowledge that is expected to facilitate strategic coordination across the conglomerate’s various affiliates. His leadership style is characterized by a meticulous attention to detail and fiscal prudence, attributes that are increasingly essential as Samsung navigates a competitive landscape marked by rapid technological advancements. The reformation from the Task Force to a permanent Business Support Office aims not only to streamline operations but also to embed a stable governance structure, allowing for more agile decision-making processes throughout Samsung's multifaceted business units.

  • 3-3. Interim management arrangements

  • The transition in leadership following Chung Hyun-ho's retirement was meticulously planned to ensure continuity in Samsung's operations. During the interim phase leading up to Park Hark-kyu’s official appointment, a series of interim management arrangements were executed to maintain stability in the Business Support function. This included temporary assignments for key leadership roles within the newly formed Business Support Office. Executives who had previously supported Chung in the Business Support Task Force, such as Choi Yoon-ho, who took on the head of the Strategy Team, and Joo Chang-hoon, who led the Management Diagnosis Team, were pivotal during this transition. Their extensive experience allowed for a seamless continuation of critical functions, ensuring that the strategic vision of Samsung remained steadfast while the leadership structure was refined. The interim arrangements not only kept operations fluid but also provided an opportunity for Park to acclimate to his new responsibilities under familiar guidance.

4. Impacts on Governance and Decision Coordination

  • 4-1. Centralization of strategic planning across affiliates

  • In the context of Samsung Electronics' recent transition from a task force model to a permanent Business Support Office, there has been a significant centralization of strategic planning across its various affiliates. This shift is indicative of the company's intention to streamline decision-making processes and enhance overall organizational efficiency. The new Business Support Office consolidates the oversight previously dispersed among multiple entities within the company, allowing for a unified approach to strategic direction. This centralization is expected to facilitate quicker responses to market demands and align the goals of different affiliates more closely with corporate objectives.

  • The establishment of the Business Support Office, which now operates with a clear mandate and authority, represents a key strategic response to the challenges presented by a rapidly changing business environment. As noted in recent reports, President Park Hark-kyu's appointment as head of this new office is crucial. His leadership experience and focus on strategic coordination are essential for fostering inter-affiliate collaboration, thereby enhancing the efficacy with which Samsung navigates its diverse and complex global operations.

  • 4-2. Enhanced clarity in reporting lines to Executive Chairman

  • Another outcome of Samsung's transition is the enhanced clarity in reporting lines, particularly in relation to the Executive Chairman. With the restructuring, the Business Support Office serves not only as an operational hub but also strengthens reporting connections that facilitate more decisive executive oversight. Vice Chairman Chung Hyun-ho's transition into an advisory position has resulted in clearer hierarchies, whereby reporting mechanisms from affiliates now flow more directly to the top levels of corporate governance.

  • This improvement in governance is designed to eliminate ambiguities that may have existed under the previous task force structure, thereby enabling better accountability and faster decision-making processes. The new arrangement ensures that strategic insights and operational data from various divisions are effectively channeled to executives, particularly Chairman Lee Jae-yong, who is expected to utilize this information in steering the company's long-term vision.

  • 4-3. Streamlining of cross-divisional initiatives

  • The restructuring has also led to a streamlining of cross-divisional initiatives within Samsung Electronics. By organizing support functions under the Business Support Office, the company has established a framework that promotes collaboration among different business units. This framework is intended to eliminate redundant processes and enhance synergy across various departments, thus improving the efficiency of corporate initiatives.

  • Reports indicate that this streamlining effort is aimed at fostering innovation and agility within the company. As different divisions engage more closely with one another through the new office, Samsung expects to see accelerated project timelines and the identification of new market opportunities. This collaborative atmosphere is essential for the company's strategy to remain competitive and responsive in an increasingly complex technological landscape.

5. Strategic Implications for Organizational Agility

  • 5-1. Professionalization of internal support services

  • The transition from a temporary Business Support Task Force to a permanent Business Support Office signifies a pivotal shift towards the professionalization of internal support services within Samsung Electronics. This evolution is characterized by a structured integration of expertise and resources, aimed at enhancing operational effectiveness and responsiveness to market demands. In establishing this Office, Samsung has underscored the importance of specialized support functions that enable swift decision-making and streamlined processes across its diverse affiliates.

  • 5-2. Faster execution of corporate initiatives

  • With the Business Support Office now in operation, Samsung anticipates a marked improvement in the speed and efficiency of corporate initiative rollouts. By clarifying reporting lines and consolidating strategic planning under a permanent structure, the organization can foster a more agile environment where essential business decisions can be implemented promptly. Recent performance metrics suggest that this increased agility will empower Samsung to adapt more proactively to shifts in the technology landscape, aligning resources effectively to capitalize on emerging opportunities.

  • 5-3. Strengthened oversight and accountability

  • The recent organizational changes also introduce enhanced oversight and accountability mechanisms within Samsung. By eliminating temporary roles in favor of established positions with clear mandates, the Business Support Office can enforce standards and coordinate governance across different divisions more effectively. This move not only facilitates better management of corporate affairs but also aligns with recent calls for greater transparency in corporate governance, addressing concerns that had emerged during past restructuring efforts. The new structure is expected to bolster the company's resilience in face of regulatory scrutiny and foster a culture of responsible leadership.

6. Comparative Perspective: Multi-CEO and Support Roles

  • 6-1. Interaction between co-CEO model and support office

  • The interaction between Samsung's co-CEO model and the newly established Business Support Office is pivotal in understanding how executive leadership functions complement one another. The co-CEO structure, which has been a distinctive feature of Samsung's management strategy, allows for a division of responsibilities that can enhance efficiency and specialization in decision-making. With the presence of Park Hark-kyu at the helm of the Business Support Office, there is a strategic alignment towards operational coherence within the organization. This central office acts as a facilitator for coordinated action between the two CEO roles, ensuring that initiatives are implemented seamlessly across various business divisions. By having dedicated support from the Business Support Office, both co-CEOs can better focus on their specific strategic mandates while relying on a structured support framework that streamlines communication and reinforces decision-making processes.

  • 6-2. Balance between business division leadership and corporate coordination

  • Achieving a balance between the leadership of individual business divisions and overarching corporate coordination has emerged as a significant challenge within Samsung’s evolving leadership landscape. The Business Support Office is intended to play an integral role in bridging this divide by fostering an environment where divisional leaders can pursue their operational goals while remaining aligned with corporate strategy. This arrangement necessitates a clear delineation of responsibilities and an understanding of how to leverage collective strengths across different divisions. The Business Support Office's focus on enhancing governance mechanisms further supports this balance by establishing clear protocols for decision-sharing and resource allocation, allowing divisional leaders to operate with a degree of autonomy without deviating from the company's strategic vision.

  • 6-3. Broader leadership trends at Samsung

  • The structural changes at Samsung, particularly the transition from a temporary Business Support Task Force to a permanent support office, reflect broader leadership trends within the organization aimed at cultivating enhanced agility and responsiveness to market demands. Not only has there been a shift towards more formalized governance structures, but there is also a notable trend toward operational efficiency that prioritizes fast-tracking decision-making processes. This evolution in leadership dynamics aligns with global shifts where companies are increasingly focusing on streamlined operations and quick adaptability. As Samsung navigates these changes, the emphasis on collaboration between different leadership layers—including support roles and executive positions—signals a progressive approach to corporate governance that may well set industry benchmarks in the future.

Conclusion

  • The transition from a temporary Business Support Task Force to a permanent Business Support Office signals Samsung's strategic intent to bolster its corporate governance and operational efficacy. By establishing Park Hark-kyu at the helm and shifting Chung Hyun-ho into an advisory capacity, the organization has succeeded in clarifying leadership roles and reinforcing accountability within its framework. The implications of this structural change resonate throughout Samsung, especially regarding its agility in executing cross-affiliate initiatives, which have become vital in today's fast-changing market conditions. As the organization leverages this institutional evolution, the focus on continuous performance evaluations and the integration of executive leadership will be integral to maintaining this momentum.

  • Looking ahead, Samsung is positioned to adapt more effectively to shifts in technology and market conditions, relying on the robust governance structures realized through the Business Support Office. This evolution not only strengthens operational coherence but also aligns with the co-CEO model, enabling a balanced approach to leadership and decision-making. With these strategic frameworks in place, the company stands at the forefront of innovation, ready to explore new market frontiers and solidify its competitive advantage in the global arena. As Samsung navigates these transformative efforts, the proactive engagement of its leadership will be crucial in charting a course towards sustained success and industry leadership, effectively responding to the dynamic landscape ahead.

Glossary

  • Samsung Electronics: A major South Korean multinational electronics company that specializes in the production of consumer electronics, semiconductors, and telecommunications equipment. As of November 2025, Samsung Electronics continues to lead in the global electronics market, focusing on innovation and strategic governance.
  • Business Support Office: The newly established permanent entity at Samsung Electronics, which succeeded the Business Support Task Force in November 2025. This office is intended to enhance operational efficiency, governance, and strategic alignment across various Samsung affiliates by centralizing decision-making processes.
  • Business Support Task Force (B STF): A temporary organization formed in November 2017 in response to governance challenges within Samsung, particularly following a political scandal. It was responsible for coordinating strategic initiatives among the company's affiliates and was disbanded in November 2025 as part of organizational restructuring.
  • Chung Hyun-ho: Vice Chairman of Samsung Electronics who transitioned from frontline management to an advisory role as of November 2025. He was instrumental in the formation and leadership of the Business Support Task Force during its operation, contributing to strategic corporate governance.
  • Park Hark-kyu: The newly appointed head of the Business Support Office as of November 2025, whose background includes financial management and operational strategy. His leadership aims to enhance Samsung’s governance capabilities and facilitate more agile decision-making across affiliates.
  • Leadership Restructure: The process undergone by Samsung Electronics, culminating in November 2025, where the temporary Business Support Task Force was replaced by a permanent Business Support Office. This change aims to formalize governance and streamline organizational agility in decision-making.
  • Organizational Agility: A focus on enhancing a company's ability to respond rapidly to market changes, characterized by decision-making efficiency and inter-departmental collaboration. Samsung's recent structural changes are aimed at improving agility within its operations.
  • Decision Coordination: The process by which decision-making authority and communication are consolidated within an organization. The establishment of the Business Support Office is aimed at refining decision coordination across Samsung's diverse business units.
  • Executive Advisory: A role assumed by Chung Hyun-ho after November 2025, which focuses on providing strategic guidance to the executive leadership of Samsung, particularly Chairman Lee Jae-yong. This role leverages his extensive experience while minimizing direct operational involvement.
  • Corporate Governance: The system of rules, practices, and processes by which a company is directed and controlled. The restructuring at Samsung underlines the importance of enhancing corporate governance to ensure accountability and transparency in its operations.

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