Overseas banks sketch plan to hire thousands

By Zhang Fengming (Shanghai Daily)
Updated: 2007-02-05 14:27

With overseas lenders given a more level playing field to compete on the Chinese mainland, the competition has heated up to find experienced employees.

Star Ge, a headhunter for bankers, says the beginning of the year is the peak season for job seekers.

Big plans

Sales managers, public relations officers, translators and other positions are open for those interested in working for an overseas bank.

HSBC will add 1,000 employees this year after hiring the same number in 2006 as the bank expands investment in networks and personnel on the mainland, said Richard Yorke, chief executive officer of HSBC in China.

Hang Seng Bank also said it will hire about 2,000 people by 2010.

Some of the new employees are from domestic lenders.

"The competition among overseas and domestic lenders is not only about the fight for high-end clients but for talented staff as well," said Shiu Kai-Wing at Capgemini, a consultancy firm.

The expansion ambition of overseas banks is easy to see in Shanghai.

Places like Xujiahui and the Jing'an Temple area stand out as key locations for overseas banks.
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