Prime Highlights:
- China has one of the highest proportions of women in top executive roles, surpassing countries like the US, Germany, and France.
- Chinese women succeed in leadership through strategic career planning, global thinking, adaptability, and strong collaborative skills.
Key Facts:
- A University of Burgundy study interviewed 70 Chinese female executives, revealing that those starting their careers in China before moving abroad tend to achieve greater success.
- Women in State-owned companies excel at building robust networks and long-term relationships, which significantly support their career advancement.
Background
A recent study shows that China has one of the highest proportions of women in top executive positions, surpassing countries such as the United States, Germany, and France. The research highlights the strategies and qualities that help Chinese women succeed in leadership roles at home and abroad.
A PhD study at the University of Burgundy, France, interviewed 70 Chinese female executives. Of these, 38 were based in China and 32 worked across Europe. Participants held senior roles in multinational corporations and State-owned companies, and the findings have been published in five books on women’s leadership.
The study revealed that Chinese women ascend to leadership with strategic career planning, global thinking, and good people skills. They take calculated risks, adapt to new environments, and align their personal strengths with the needs of international organisations. Many demonstrate a collaborative leadership style and consistently seek opportunities to grow professionally.
Women in State-owned companies were especially successful at building strong networks and maintaining long-term relationships, which supported their career growth. The study also found that women who start their careers in China before moving abroad tend to achieve higher success than those who begin overseas.
Yet, Chinese women who study abroad and get married to non-Chinese husbands occasionally have even more problems, as they have a smaller support network and cultural differences.
The analysis of the study reveals that Chinese women in the top management positions are successful due to planning, flexibility, and collaboration. Their stories can teach women and men all over the world how to make it to the top, how to maneuver in the international business world, and what competencies should be equipped to ensure long-term success.
