David Stepat interviewed for CNA Insight documentary on China's race for talent

David Stepat, Managing Director of Meridium Management Consultants, appears as an expert interviewee in China’s Race for Talent, the latest episode of CNA’s flagship current affairs documentary series Insight.

The hour-long programme examines China’s push to attract skilled professionals, scientists and entrepreneurs from around the world as it competes for leadership in frontier technologies, and asks whether the country can persuade international talent to make the move.

Drawing on more than 20 years in Asia, including 12 years living and working in Beijing, David offers a practitioner’s view of what foreign professionals weigh when considering a move to China, and how the travel restrictions of the COVID years continue to shape those decisions today.

“China has made attracting global talent a national priority, and the incentives on offer are real. But having lived in Beijing for twelve years, I know that professionals and their families weigh far more than salary. They look at openness, predictability and quality of life, and the COVID years left a lasting impression on many of them. For companies building their Asia presence, the lesson applies across the region: where you base your people is as strategic a decision as where you sell. I was glad to share that perspective with CNA.”

David Stepat, Managing Director, Meridium

Watch the programme

• On CNA: China’s Race for Talent
• On YouTube: Insight on CNA’s YouTube channel

Meridium helps foreign companies set up and run their operations in Singapore and across the region, from incorporation and work pass applications to payroll and regional structuring. To discuss your plans, book a call with our team.