March 7, 2023. Shanghai – Twelve CEIBS alumnae have been listed in the 2024 Forbes China 100 Top Businesswomen ranking, covering various industries such as electrical manufacturing, healthcare, biopharmaceuticals, retail, chemical materials, and high-tech. According to Forbes China, the list is designed to present a portrait of women in China's business world.

Having been released for ten consecutive years, the ranking highlights the most influential female leaders in China and takes into account the business performance, market capitalization, market size, industry influence, and innovation of their companies.

With an average age of 51, 44% of the female executives are entrepreneurs who started their businesses from scratch (including those who joined founding teams at an early stage), 44% are professional managers, and 12% are second-generation successors of family businesses. Beijing and Shanghai are home to the highest numbers of entrants on the list.

It is noteworthy that among the 100 entrants, 29 are from new technology consumption industries, hinting at the great transformation of China’s retail industry driven by economic fluctuations and increasing competition from online platforms.

In comparison to previous years, this year’s ranking focuses more on the relationship between these extraordinary businesswomen and their families, including how they transform their roles in the midst of business competition. Research by UN Women also shows that globally, women are being forced to take on more unpaid caregiving and domestic work. In 2023, the organisation launched an International Day of Care and Support to call global attention to the issue.

On behalf of the school, CEIBS President Wang Hong expressed her congratulations to those on the list:

“Qualities such as tolerance and tenacity, which many female leaders possess, are becoming increasingly important in the business world. Amid challenges in the current business landscape, CEIBS alumnae have been courageous and enterprising, and have led their companies to achieve breakthroughs against adversity by virtue of their extraordinary wisdom and unique skill. Their achievements will inspire more women to drive social and economic innovation and progress,” President Wang said.

She further added that CEIBS is committed to providing cutting-edge management education and creating a greater platform both for faculty and female students.

Since its establishment in 1994, CEIBS has witnessed a 30% increase in the number of female full-time faculty. By the end of 2023, there were 24 female full-time faculty, all of whom possess first-class academic backgrounds and rich teaching experience, injecting new perspectives into the teaching and research work of the school. In addition, the number of female CEIBS alumnae continues to grow, accounting for 27.4% of over 30,000 CEIBS alumni worldwide. In 2023, Global EMBA, MBA, and Financial MBA programmes saw female student proportions of 45%, 46%, and 51%, respectively, among the incoming cohorts.

February 28, 2024. Shanghai - A dinner reception in celebration of the 60th anniversary of China-France diplomatic relations and 30th anniversary of the establishment of CEIBS was held at the CEIBS Shanghai campus today, featuring a keynote speech from CEIBS Distinguished Professor and Former Prime Minister of France Jean-Pierre Raffarin.

In an opening address, CEIBS Chairman and President of Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU) Ding Kuiling stated that Professor Raffarin, who has travelled back and forth between China and France multiple times over the past 50 years, displays a deep affection for the country and its people.

“SJTU, CEIBS and France share a long history of exchange and cooperation. Therefore, we should seize the historical moment of the 60th anniversary of China-France diplomatic relations and the 30th anniversary of the establishment of CEIBS to work together and promote the healthy long-term development of China-France relations,” he said.

This was followed by a keynote speech by Professor Raffarin, who stressed the need for China and France to work together, particularly in five areas in which he believes the countries share common values: global peace, diversity and dialogue, multilateralism, the development of African countries, and China-Europe relations.

“Nothing is more important than dialogue to help us navigate today’s complex world. Violence is not an option. China and France can serve as a bridge of communication between different stakeholders and countries,” he said.

He then added that as two multilateralist countries, China and France have the potential to work together on global issues such as climate change and to modernize the Charter of the United Nations to adapt it to today's new realities.

“Artificial intelligence, for example, is a priority area in which we need to establish a global regulatory mechanism, because we can't do anything without regulation”, Professor Raffarin said. “In this regard, China, France and Europe can work together to establish relevant international organisations to regulate this new technology.”

Professor Raffarin also noted that the development of Africa is another area in which the two nations can work together. “Today, Africa is threatened by terrorism (...) Given China and France’s experiences in Africa, we’re accountable in upholding multilateralism and international cooperation.”

At the same time, China should help Europe become more independent, Professor Raffarin asserted. “For peace in the world, we need a sovereign Europe. A weakened Europe does not favour China because it would lead to an imbalanced world order. This is a consequence we should actively avoid,” he said. “As an old Chinese saying goes, when you drink water, you should remember its source.”

The reception also featured a Q&A session, with topics such as cultural exchange, international business engagement, and business education discussed.

In her closing remarks, CEIBS President Wang Hong noted that Professor Raffarin first came to China in 1970, is a dear friend of the country, and is well respected by both the Chinese and French people. In 2019, Professor Raffarin was awarded the Friendship Medal, the highest honor China confers to foreign nationals for their long-standing support and help to the country.

“We have been enlightened by the five common values that Professor Raffarin has put forward and motivated to gather more countries to care for global common causes like ESG, global climate change, and aging populations. As a socially responsible international business school, we should not only set our eyes on commercial value, but also the greater development of mankind and the fulfillment of people's aspirations for a better life,” she concluded.

The event was hosted by CEIBS Vice President and Dean Frank Bournois, who noted that attendance at the exclusive gathering was balanced with equal representation from China and France alongside other esteemed guests from around the globe. The diverse array of attendees included esteemed entrepreneurs, business leaders, and chamber officials.

Before the event, Professor Raffarin also participated in a private meeting with CEIBS Chairman and President of SJTU Ding Kuiling, attended by CEIBS President Wang Hong, Consul General of France in Shanghai Joan Valadou, CEIBS Vice President and Dean Frank Bournois, CEIBS Vice President and Co-Dean Zhang Weijiong, and CEIBS Party Secretary Ma Lei.

Here, they noted that both France and China are high context cultures, and that at a time in which the world is facing numerous challenges, it is crucial for the two countries to enhance communication and cooperation. Professor Raffarin spoke highly of China's measures to optimise visa processes for foreign nationals entering China and affirmed that the world needs more similar opening and cooperation measures. Chairman Ding Kuiling used the metaphor of a chemical reaction to demonstrate the importance of connection, noting that only through true connection can two parties react, produce effective functions, and generate value. He also asserted that facing an uncertain future, there is still broader potential for cooperation between China and France.

February 26, 2024. Zurich - China Europe International Business School (CEIBS) and the Swiss-Chinese Chamber of Commerce (SCCC) recently orchestrated a remarkable event at the CEIBS Zurich campus, blending insights, networking, and Chinese New Year festivities. This exclusive gathering doubled as a commemoration of CEIBS' 30th anniversary in the auspicious Year of the Dragon, symbolising the convergence of cultural heritage and renewal.

Over 150 distinguished guests, including Chinese dignitaries, esteemed alumni, high-profile business partners, and MBA/GEMBA prospects gathered at the campus. Notable attendees also included CEIBS Director of Global EMBA Programme Professor Bala Ramasamy and the GEMBA 2023 cohort, who were onsite undertaking an overseas module at the CEIBS Zurich Campus.

His Excellency Wang Shiting, Chinese Ambassador to Switzerland, graced our campus in person and delivered an inspiring presentation entitled "China is the New China," contributing to the significance of the event. Ambassador Wang highlighted three key areas of China's new development. Firstly, he emphasised the shift from GDP-oriented development to high-quality development, promoting innovative, coordinated, green, open, and shared development concepts. Secondly, he discussed new ways of living, exemplified by the significant transformation of digital payment methods and diversified transportation options in China, including low-carbon alternatives such as electric vehicles and bike-sharing. Moreover, in a society that is becoming more and more digitised, with examples like e-commerce and live stream commerce, Ambassador Wang delved into new forms of employment. In conclusion, he expressed confidence in China's economy, noting its strong resilience, enormous potential, vast room for maneuver, and long-term sustainability, asserting that this foundation remains unchanged. Ambassador Wang also acknowledged CEIBS' achievements over the past 30 years and expressed confidence in its continued growth on the global stage.

His Excellency Jürg Burri, Swiss Ambassador to China, sent a special video welcome message to the event, highlighting positive prospects for Swiss-Chinese relations, underscoring CEIBS' pivotal role in fostering closer Sino-European ties and bringing European management expertise to China. In his message, Ambassador Burri extended his best wishes on the "double celebration" of the Chinese New Year of the Dragon and CEIBS’ 30th anniversary, acknowledging CEIBS for bringing European management expertise to China and highlighting its role in fostering closer Sino-Swiss ties. "On one hand, CEIBS brings European management know-how and practices to China," Ambassador Burri said. “On the other hand, it also offers western executives the chance to gain an in-depth understanding of doing business in China.”

Emphasising Switzerland's strategic location as a gateway to Europe, he recognised CEIBS's impact on both Chinese and European companies. Ambassador Burri then traced the historical development of Sino-Swiss relations, noting milestones such as the 1974 trade agreement and the 2014 Free Trade Agreement. He commended the positive outcomes of recent high-level meetings, including plans for visa-free entry to China for Swiss residents and advancements in the free trade agreement. Reflecting on the auspicious Year of the Dragon, Ambassador Burri expressed confidence in the continued development of business relations between the two countries and encouraged collaboration among business leaders, extending gratitude to CEIBS for its contribution to this relationship. “As the Swiss Ambassador to China, I am glad to witness the remarkable achievements of CEIBS and its role in fostering closer ties between our two nations,” he concluded.

Mr. Michael Settelen, Senior Consultant from China Marco Group (CMG), then delivered a compelling keynote speech. His address explored China's evolving political economy, current economic policies, growth strategies, and European business sentiment.

The event also featured captivating performances by talented Chinese musicians, showcasing mezzosoprano and Guqin compositions, adding an additional layer of cultural flair to the celebration.

The CEIBS and SCCC Chinese New Year Celebration stands as a testament to CEIBS’ commitment to bridging business relationships, fostering cultural exchange, and facilitating collaboration. The event's theme, "China is the New China," serves as a powerful symbol of our dedication to understanding and embracing the evolving dynamics and positive outlook of Sino-Swiss relations and business collaboration.

As we reflect on the occasion, we not only celebrate the successes of today but also cast our vision towards the future. This event coincides with CEIBS' 30th anniversary, a milestone that inspires us to anticipate the next 30 years of growth and excellence. We eagerly look forward to the continued expansion of our global impact, the forging of new partnerships, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence that will define the next chapter in our institution's remarkable journey.