By Cindy Hu, Senior Manager, Account Management, GoGlobal.
As the global economy becomes more interconnected, the major cities of mainland China have emerged as crucial hubs for talent across various industries. International companies are eyeing China for its skilled, cost-effective professionals, diverse industry sectors, innovation and vibrant economic landscape.
In this blog post, we explore the top cities in mainland China for hiring talent, delving into the unique advantages and roles available in each.
Shenzhen: The Silicon Valley of China
Shenzhen, often referred to as the Silicon Valley of China, has rapidly transformed from a small fishing village into a sprawling metropolis. It is known as a global tech powerhouse. This innovative environment makes Shenzhen a magnet for tech professionals and startups alike.
Types of Talent Available:
- Software Engineer
- Quality Engineer
- Sales & Marketing Manager
- Post-Sales Client Manager
Shenzhen’s tech ecosystem is fueled by its numerous tech parks, incubators and accelerators. This makes it an ideal destination for software engineers and quality engineers.
The city’s vibrant business landscape also demands skilled sales and marketing professionals. This specialized talent can help international companies drive growth and customer engagement.
Guangzhou: The Manufacturing Hub
Guangzhou, known for its robust manufacturing sector, is another key city in China’s talent pool. The city’s strategic location and industrial prowess make it an essential hub for production and supply chain management. China is often called the “World’s Factory” and Guangzhou’s vast network of factories plays a key role in promoting this status.
Types of Talent Available:
- Business Development /Sales Manager
- Quality Engineer
- Technical Support Engineer
- Product Manager
- Supply Chain Manager
Guangzhou’s extensive industrial base offers ample opportunities in manufacturing and related sectors. The city’s dominance has also cultivated a diverse range of professionals, enabling international companies to source top talent across functions. This includes business development managers and sales experts to technical support and supply chain managers.
Beijing: The Capital of Innovation and Diversification
Beijing, the political and cultural heart of China, boasts a rich talent pool across multiple industries. The city’s prestigious universities and research institutions foster a steady and diversified pool of highly skilled professionals in emerging fields. For example, according to government figures, Beijing is home to 43% of China’s AI professionals.
Types of Talent Available:
- Business Development/Sales Manager
- Software Engineer
- Marketing Manager
- Sales Support Engineer
- Quality Engineer
- Customer Manager
Beijing’s diverse economy and innovative environment make it a prime location for business development and sales managers, software engineers and marketing professionals. The city’s emphasis on quality and customer satisfaction also facilitates demand for quality engineers and customer managers.
Shanghai: The Financial Hub
Shanghai, China’s financial epicenter, is renowned for its sophisticated infrastructure and thriving business environment. It is the center for international trading and there are various exhibitions every year that draw international business visitors. The city’s cosmopolitan reputation attracts talent from around the globe, making it a dynamic and competitive job market.
Types of Talent Available:
- Business Development/Sales Manager
- Software Engineer
- Marketing Manager
- Project Manager
- Customer Manager
Shanghai’s financial and technological sectors are particularly robust, requiring a mix of business development managers, software engineers and marketing managers. Additionally, the city’s extensive projects in various domains have drawn in skilled project managers and customer managers. This talent can be crucial in helping international companies oversee and enhance business operations.
Looking ahead: expanding and hiring in China
As more companies look to these cities for hiring and expansion, the competition for top talent is becoming increasingly fierce. Understanding the strengths and talent trends in these cities, and compensation expectations, can help international companies make informed hiring decisions.
Refer to salary benchmarks by city and role in our infographic:
An Employer of Record (EOR) can provide a valuable framework for navigating the complex legal landscape, mitigating risks and ensuring compliance. By partnering with an EOR in China, companies can streamline HR processes, manage global payroll, develop benefits and access local expertise.
In some cases, an EOR can also provide strategic support in sourcing top talent for critical, in-demand roles. This winning combination offers an end-to-end solution for global recruitment and hiring.
Whether you’re a startup or an established multinational, tapping into China’s talent pool across these major cities can unlock new opportunities and propel your business forward.
Contact us to learn more about how GoGlobal’s one-of-a-kind Recruit & Hire solution can help you access new talent pools of remote workers and digital nomads in China and beyond.