Heather Xiaojun WANG--HR Director of GE (Asia Pacific and Great China)

This case describes the career development of Heather Xiaojun WANG, GE’s HR Director for Asia Pacific and Greater China. In 1994, Heather, whose background included the military and state-owned enterprises, joined GE in China as an HR professional. In 1996, she was awarded the opportunity of a work rotation in the US. While there, she overcame many difficulties and helped facilitate a turning point for the company. Later, she chose to do integration work at GE Financial Group, which was regarded as the most difficult company to manage, and she was quite successful. In 2002, Heather accepted the even greater challenge of returning to China as the director of human resources. In 2004, she won the GE “Hero of Growth” Award; she was the only winner from Asia as well as from the human resources profession. In 2005, she was promoted to HR Director in Asia Pacific and Greater China. This case is suitable for leadership or career development courses for MBA or EMBA students.