Mr. Zhu Zhiwen was born in Fujian Province, China. He studied in the department of Economics of Xiamen University from February 1978 to February 1982, and earned his Bachelor degree in the field of Finance and Accounting in February 1982.

After graduation, Mr. Zhu served as the Head of Student Services of the Department of International Economics and Trade of Xiamen University from 1982 to 1983, Deputy Director of Student Services of Xiamen University from 1983 to 1984. From 1984 to 1989, Mr. Zhu served as the Vice Chairman, and then the Chairman of the Department Council of International Economics and Trade. From 1989 to 1991, he headed the General Office for CPC Affairs. After being the Assistant to President for two years from 1991 to 1993, he was promoted to a Vice President position of Xiamen University in 1993 and served at that position until 2000.

In 2000, Mr. Zhu was appointed as the Chairman of Education Committee and Director General of Department of Education of Fujian Province and severed at that position until 2005. He was the Vice Chairman and then Chairman of CPC Ningde Municipal Committee from 2005 to 2006. In December 2006, Mr. Zhu was appointed the Chairman of Xiamen University Council.