Xiong Zhixue is general manager of China Services International, a subordinate organization of State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs and is one of the key government bodies overseeing the talent introduction programs.

"We are exploring ways to cooperate with international headhunters who have a large number of global talent sources to help with our programs," said Xiong, who added that the organization is planning to host more meetings and seminars to let international headhunters get a better understanding of China's talent needs and thus to finally find the right talent.

Kupferschmid from SilkRoad said the message he received from the Chinese government is that the country needs high-end professionals in almost every industry, but that healthcare is one of the most urgent.

"Like in every country, there is a shortage of healthcare professionals, doctors and nurses.

"China is an aging society, and taking care of an aging society demands everything related to healthcare from pharmacy to rehabilitation and long-term living facilities," he said.

"I would suggest that healthcare stands out as an industry that really presents a global challenge for having the best talent to fulfill their roles."

Kupferschmid also suggested he's been using social media sites such as weibo in China and Facebook and Twitter overseas to promote the programs and catch candidates' eyes.

Caleb Baker, managing director with recruitment managed services of outsourcer Talent2's Asia Pacific office, added that it would also be bringing all its "intellectual property and experience" to help the government.

"It's a big step for us because we were mainly working in multinational sector for China business," he said.

Talent2's hires about 8500 overseas professionals a year into China, he said.

Zhang Ke, a country manager with First Advantage, a US-based provider of employment background screening services, added that it's targeting general and high-end professionals.

 

chenxin1@chinadaily.com.cn