Pollution Dulls China's Shine for Global Executives

A recent survey of global executives conducted by the Association of Executive Search Consultants (AESC) found 85% of senior executives view China as providing positive opportunities for career growth. However urban air quality could have a significant impact on the country’s ability to attract the best global talent, as 72% of international executives identified pollution levels as a core concern when considering a move to China.

AESC Asia-Pacific Managing Director, Mr Patrick Rooney noted that both figures were noticeably higher in China than in other markets surveyed. “The results clearly indicate most executives overseas view China as providing excellent opportunities, but it’s also clear that environmental factors have a significant impact. Ultimately this will affect the ability of business in China to hire the best possible senior talent.”

The 2014 AESC Asia-Pacific Executive Perceptions Survey looked at the ‘push’ and ‘pull’ factors influencing relocation for 11 Asia-Pacific markets, including China. More than 850 senior executives were surveyed globally. A quarter of those surveyed currently hold CEO roles, with the remainder mainly holding other C-suite roles.

This article was originally published on the BlueSteps Executive Career Insider Blog.