Business Leadership Development in China

This book argues that China’s businesses, and hence China’s future economic development, face a huge crisis due to a considerable "leadership gap" in China. There is a shortage of competent business leaders at a time when new leadership skills are urgently required, as China’s businesses rapidly evolve and engage more with the global economy.

Moreover, the book suggests that training is an undervalued and often marginalised activity in Chinese companies. It outlines the nature of this problem and demonstrates the emergence of a new breed of manager in China. These managers are aware of the need to upgrade management skills, moving away from those suited to traditional industrial firms, and emphasising more flexibility, positive engagement with workers, and competence in the market economy.

Business Leadership Development in China includes an evaluation of different management approaches in China. It reports on extensive original research, including interviews with practising managers, and discusses how self-development is widespread, deep, and important.