A Word from our General Manager
Since June 2021 I have had the privilege of serving as General Manager for the Benelux Chamber - I will continue for now, but unfortunately family circumstances make it difficult for me to be in Shanghai continuously, and I have asked the Board to start looking for a successor.
After three very difficult Covid-19 years the Benelux business community is recovering and I have enjoyed making a contribution - however minor - in this role. But as business activity in China ramps up again, so is the Chamber ramping up its activities. In fact, we're expanding to new ways to add value to the Benelux business ecosystem in China. Engaging more with the Consulates and local government, with local executives, helping University Alumni connect & stay in touch with Benelux businesses, helping students to find placements and setting up Industry Practice Groups, all part of a larger strategy guided by our Board and our "4 C's": Connect, Content, Community and China.
This is all leading to growth in the size of the Chamber and the scope of activities, and we need a General Manager permanently present in Shanghai (and Jiangsu, Zhejiang, ..) to support this. We have started the search for a successor, which may take some time, and I will continue in my role as before (and ensure a smooth handover, when needed).
If you would like to recommend someone for this role, or just get more information, please contact me directly. In my view, the work with our non-profit Benelux Chamber in Shanghai is one of the most broadly connected and most impactful jobs in the Benelux business community in China. One of our Chamber values is that in our business community we treat each other ‘as friends’ – and I certainly found that to be true.
Please see the job description here.
Ian Bennink
General Manager