Hays Banking - July 2010
CHINA
Hotspots
The expansion of corporate banking businesses is creating demand for candidates with six to ten years experience within the commercial banking sector, particularly in relationship management. Candidates need SOE and multinational experience. Those with PRC experience and English language skills are also sought in response to attempts by foreign banks to enter the market.
Demand for candidates with a solid track record in export finance and structured finance has increased. Banks are looking for strong product knowledge, a thorough understanding of client needs and experience in business relationship development and maintenance.
Experienced Sales Managers/Team Leaders are also needed to manage local relationships and drive sales in the retail banking sector. Those with over five years experience dealing with high net worth clients, solid product knowledge and sales skills are particularly valued. Expansion plans and the opening of new sub branches are driving this demand. Banks will also consider internal restructuring, promoting valued employees to more senior positions. This will lead to more opportunities for junior positions in this sector.
There are also opportunities for experienced Deputy Branch Managers in first tier cities, and senior candidates in the non-banking financial institution sector.
The coming quarter
We have seen a significant improvement in recruitment activity. Foreign commercial banks have aggressive expansion strategies in place, opening branches and sub branches.
The recruitment market is also improving in Beijing. Candidate movement has increased and healthy demand for skills is ensuring an active market.
Employer trends
Employers are speeding up their recruitment process in order to secure the bestcandidates available. Employers are favouring those with both local and overseas experience.
Candidate trends
There has been an overall increase in the number of candidates looking for a new role now that market confidence has improved. Despite this, highly skilled candidates remain in short supply.
