Alibaba’s new chief Daniel Zhang talks strategy as he steps in to helm

On Sept. 10, Daniel Zhang, a little-known former accountant, will take over the chairman’s role at Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. from Jack Ma, the country’s most famous businessman. A full story on him and his strategy is in this week’s Bloomberg Businessweek. Below are excerpts from an extended interview with Zhang at the company’s headquarters, lightly edited for clarity. The 47-year-old was full of surprises, from the rationale for his controversial expansions to his fondness for the National Basketball Assn. and a player he sees as a “killer.” He spoke in English.