Join Now

Upcoming Event

ACAA Supported Event: Welcome Home to University of Melbourne New Graduates - Shanghai
Wednesday 22nd February, 2012
19:00 - 21:00

News

Swinburne University helps australian innovators in solar world first 2012-02-21
more

Australian National University announces new Global Emerging Voices Scholarship (Applications Now Open) 2012-02-07
more

Alumni Profiles


[ Top ]

Yi Zheng, Business Manager and ERP Control Director for ShanXi ALEX Environmental Protection Technology - 2012-02-01

Zheng Yi La Trobe University - 2006 - Bachelor of Computer Science and Information Technology

Based in ShanXi

Zheng Yi, the double degree holder in computer science and information technology from La Trobe University, has hung up his traveling shoes after 10 years of country hopping to resettle in his hometown of TaiYuan, ShanXi, and dedicate his life to local environmental protection.

The current overseas business manager and ERP control director for ShanXi ALEX Environmental Protection Technology looks back on his Australian University days and cherishes most the independence, self-learning and free thinking approach that helped him to develop into a young professional.

Nowadays, he enjoys nothing more than leading a skilled team to tackle and overcome a tough project or negotiation. Although he enjoyed his time studying in Australia, he is happy to be back at home, with his friends and family and eating real local Chinese food, which he believes is much more delicious than it's Australian Counterpart.

[ Top ]

Morry Morgan, Marketing Director at ClarkMorgan Corporate Training and Founder & Editor at Network HR Magazine - 2012-02-01

Morry Morgan RMIT University - 1997 - Bachelor of Applied Science (Medical Laboratory Science), an Advanced Certificate in Business Administration, and Advanced Certificate in Chinese (Mandarin)
Monash University - 2000 - Australian Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Association Continuing Education Certificate

Shanghai Based

Morry Morgan is an alumnus of RMIT University and Monash University, graduating with a Bachelor of Applied Science (Medical Laboratory Science), an Advanced Certificate in Business Administration, and Advanced Certificate in Chinese (Mandarin) from RMIT University in 1997. He completed his Australian Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Association Continuing Education Certificate at Monash University in 2000.

Mr. Morgan also founded the largest bi-lingual HR publication in China, Network HR. Mr. Morgan, has handed over day-to-day responsibilities of the magazine, and continues to help leverage its readership of 7,500 professionals, to create awareness of human resource practices in China through articles and advertising.

Since arriving in China in 2001, Morgan has created the following businesses/events: ClarkMorgan Corporate Training (www.clarkmorgan.com), Network HR (www.networkhr.com), Tanghui Music Bar, Premier Events and Spark09 (www.spark09.org).


One of Morgan’s notable firsts was the creation of ClarkMorgan Corporate Training which has gone on to win the Greater China ‘Training Firm of the Year’ in 2007 and 2008, and was a finalist for the 2009 title.
Morgan also created China's first 'Ideas Conference', called Spark09, which has since been repeated in Hong Kong and Beijing, generating awareness about the importance of innovation in China, while also raising money for China-based charities.

At the first Spark Conference, Mr. Morgan met Mr. Tom Stader, director of The Library Project, a charity that collects books for underprivileged children in rural communities in China. The two came to a partnership agreement and to date the partnership has collected over 5,000 books, building 100 libraries across China, and created a channel for other companies to support this charity.
Mr. Morgan wrote and published his first book in 2010, entitled “Selling Big to China”. This book spans his sales experience, gained first in Australia as well as during his 10 years in China.

[ Top ]

Simon Chung (鍾鎮銘), Group Chief Operating Officer, ChinaSoft International Limited - 2011-07-25

Simon Chung - ChinaSofti University of Wollongong - 1989 - Bachelor of Mathematics (Computer Science)

Based in Beijing/HK

Wollongong alumnus Simon Chung certainly has had a colourful career. After moving to Australia in the 70’s, to finish his high school and university studies, he began a career in the Australian Department of Defense (Navy Division) as an information technology officer and manager. When his mindset moved from defense to offense, he readjusted his career path working in the Government Sector as an IT database leader in the financial department.

Though the slower growth of Australia was holding Simon back and as a result he moved to Hong Kong (one of his current bases) and spent the next few years working in a range of IT consulting roles. It was then in 2006, that Simon went on to join ChinaSoft International, where today he is their current Group Chief Operation Officer. Beijing based ChinaSoft International employs some 11,000 people at 26 subsidiaries worldwide, is listed on the Hong Kong stock exchange and had a 2010 revenue of 1.6billion RMB.
Simon’s 1989 Wollongong University Bachelor in Math (Majoring in Computer Science)， where he graduated with honors, put him in good stead for his current role.

“I learnt a lot of theoretical concepts from Wollongong University, especially basic planning to complex strategic planning. This today has tremendously helped me in my work and also helped me continue to improve my skills in different fields.

His time spent in Australia has created a special bond between himself and his educational home whereby today he hopes the special Australia-China relationship can continue and that he can play a small part in proliferating it.

“…I think both countries can use their strengths to interact more with business opportunities to improve trade and help each other to grow stronger. I’ve always had a dream that I could contribute myself more and act as a small bridge to continue further improvements to the relationship between the two countries.”

Despite all of Simon’s successes, he keeps himself well grounded and never forgets to pay tribute where it is dissevered, “my greatest achievement to date is not my title, it is the life I experienced in Australia and China, and that makes me a better person today”

[ Top ]

Dr Bai Xuezhu (白学墸), Director of Research, Department of Research and Development, China Executive Leadership Academy, Pudong (CELAP)

La Trobe University - PhD (Employment Relations in Australia)
Victoria University - Masters in Human Resource Management

Based in Shanghai

Dr Bai Xuezhu is currently the Director of Research in the Department of Research and Development at the China Executive Leadership Academy (CELAP) Pudong, in Shanghai. Prior to the current position, he was the Deputy Head of Division of International Cooperation, the Chief Coordinator for International Courses, and the Chief Coordinator for the Centre for Culture & Languages in Department of International Exchanges & Program Development. In addition, he is the Associate of Oxford Policy Institute and Director of Shanghai Leadership Studies Association.

Prior to the completion of his Master Degree (Victoria University) and PhD (La Trobe University) in Human Resource Management and Employment Relations in Australia, he was the Deputy Head of Foreign Languages and Literature Department and Head of Foreign Affairs Office in Huaibei Coal Industry Teachers College in China.

He has written extensively on management, HRM, employment relations, leadership, culture, linguistics, and literature. His current interest is in public management and leadership studies. He is presently working on developing approaches to bridge Chinese traditional philosophies and modern management and leadership theories. Dr Bai was a member of the 2010 Australia China Alumni Awards judging panel.

[ Top ]

Dr Chen Dianmin (陈奠民), Vice-President of Operations, Minco Silver; President, Foshan Minco Fuwan Mining Co Ltd

Dr Chen Dianmin University of Wollongong - 1994 - PhD (Mining Engineering)

Based in Gaoming

Dr Chen Dianmin is currently Vice President of Operations at Minco Silver and the President of Foshan Minco Fuwan Mining Co Ltd.

After graduating from Central South University in Changsha with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mining Engineering, Dr Chen worked in the mining industry in China for eight years. Dr Chen was then sponsored to conduct research in Australia.

In 1991, Dr Chen was granted a scholarship to complete his PhD research from the Australian Government and Wollongong University under the Australian Overseas Postgraduate Research Award program. In 1994 Dr Chen was granted his PhD degree from Wollongong University for his work on rock bolting design systems in underground excavation.

Dr Chen then worked for Northpark Mines (now part of Rio Tinto) on the design and production of a large modern block carving operation. In 1998, Dr Chen joined Barrick Gold Corporation, the biggest gold producer in the world, where he held progressively senior roles, and worked at several of Barrick's projects/operations in Australia. Dr Chen was the Executive Director and General Manager at Sino Jinfeng Mining Ltd, a subsidiary of Sino Gold Corporation in 2007, where he was responsible for the management of the Jinfeng Gold Mine located in Guizhou Province, China. Prior to joining Minco Silver, Dr Chen was the Chief Operations Officer of CITIC Pacific Mining Management Ltd, responsible for the development of a large magnetic iron ore mine in Western Australia.

Dr Chen is currently based in Gaoming, Guangdong Province and is in charge of the construction and operation of the Fuwan Mine site. Minco Silver owns a 90% interest in the world class Fuwan Silver Deposit, situated along the northeast margin of the highly prospective Fuwan Silver Belt.

[ Top ]

Mr Joshua Philp, Rural Development Officer, College of Pastoral Agricultural Science and Technology, Lanzhou University

Joshua Philp University of Western Sydney - 2009 - Bachelor of Animal Sciences

Based in Lanzhou

When Joshua Philp began his bachelor degree in animal sciences at the University of Western Sydney, he did not expect it would one day lead him to the Loess Plateau of Gansu Province. These days Josh can be found working alongside local staff and students from the College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology (CPAST) at Lanzhou University, investigating the farming practices of the rural poor in Gansu Province. Through his research, Josh hopes to create a comprehensive picture of how Lucerne is being used in farming communities outside of Lanzhou.

Researchers at CPAST have strong research links to Australian scientific institutions including CSIRO (Australia’s national science agency) and the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research. As Josh explains, there are significant environmental similarities between the dry land farming systems of Gansu and Australia. This research collaboration aims to identify opportunities for technological and institutional interventions which can improve the incomes and living standards of local farmers. In addition to spending time in the field, Josh has given presentations to undergraduate students – most recently on the topic of grass utilization by livestock.

Josh arrived in Lanzhou in May 2010 supported by the Australian Youth Ambassador for Development (AYAD) program.

[ Top ]

Mr Peter Pang (彭德园), President, Bosch (China) Investment Co Ltd

University of Western Australia - 1972 - Bachelor of Engineering (Electronics)

Based in Shanghai

Peter Pang is an alumnus of the University of Western Australia, graduating as Bachelor of Engineering (Electronics) in 1972. In 1973, Peter joined Bosch Australia and started his career as an electronics development engineer. From 1973 to 1998, Peter progressed step by step to become the Engineering Director for Bosch Australia. Within this period, Peter built in Australia a world class engineering test center, electronic laboratories, EMC test facilities, ABS test track and a new business unit for body electronics for Bosch worldwide.

In 1998, Peter moved to Bosch in Germany to develop the body electronics business for the European, US and Asian car markets. Over a period of 5 years, Peter has managed to overcome the strong competition to win the trust and projects from Audi, Daimler Benz, Fiat, Ford, GM, Hyundai and VW.

In 2002, Peter was sent to China to develop business opportunities for Bosch in the emerging Chinese market. In 2003, Peter became the president of Bosch (China) Investment Limited. By 2005, all of the 15 business divisions of Bosch Group have built up manufacturing base in China.

In 2009, Bosch’s sales in China reached 27.4 billion CNY, employing 21,200 associates to become the 3rd largest country for Bosch in sales after Germany and the US. Cumulative investment in China exceeded 15 billion CNY.

Bosch drives for sustainable development in China by following the principle of safety, environmental protection and energy saving. In 2009, 40,000 training days were invested for associate development.

In China Peter has received a number of awards which include the ‘Outstanding CEO Award’ from China Association of Enterprise with Foreign Investment, ‘China Automotive Industry Outstanding Person Award’ from CAAM, SAE China, CATARC, CCPIT and China Automotive News as well as the ‘Silver Magnolia Award’ from the Shanghai Municipal Government.

In 2010 Peter was awarded the CPA Australia – Australia China Alumni of the Year Award.

[ Top ]

Dr Zhang Beibei (张蓓蓓), Assistant General Manager, China Merchants Property Development

University of Newcastle - 2006 - PhD

Based in Shenzhen

Dr Zhang Beibei obtained her doctorate at the University of Newcastle in 2006. After graduation, she worked in the field of assets valuation and mergers and acquisitions as the Corporate Finance Executive at Oriental Patron Financial Group (Hong Kong China). She has also been a professional demand analyst dealing with front office business development and back office project management with the China Bohai Bank. Following this position she joined the China Merchants Property Development Co. Ltd (CMPD) as Assistant General Manager in charge of the company’s research and research management.

In the past two years, Dr Zhang was selected to do post-doctorate research in cooperation with the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences and the China Merchants Group on real estate financing and financial innovation. During this period Dr Zhang wrote 11 working papers and 7 specialized papers on her research topics; obtained special funding for her research topic on China’s Real Estate Financial Innovation in Financial Crisis – REITs; and led a major project for the Central State Organs Housing System Reform Office. Dr Zhang has also contributed to a book produced by the Central Government Liaison Office in Hong Kong.

Dr Zhang has been invited to take an Associate Professor position at Henan University of Economics and Law, and is a consultant for two investment consulting companies.

In 2010 Dr Zhang won the Australian Education International Young Australia China Alumni of the Year Award.

[ Top ]

Mr Wose Phuntsok (伟斯平措), Physician in Charge, Tibet Autonomous Region Disease Prevention and Control Centre

La Trobe University - 2008 - Master in Health Management
Based in Lhasa

Wose Phuntsok is an alumnus of Latrobe University where he graduated with a Master in Health Management in 2008. He is also a graduate of the Shanghai Medical Workers College, majoring in TB prevention.

Wose Phuntsok has been engaged in TB prevention and control since he started working. As a leader of TB prevention, he does his best to master the latest knowledge of TB prevention and control. TB prevention and treatment has greatly improved in Shigatse region. In 1991, Wose Phuntsok participated in a national survey of TB epidemiology and received excellent award issued by Ministry of Health. In 1995, he started to work at Epidemic Prevention Station in Tibet, and continue to work for TB prevention and control. He was responsible for TB prevention project supervision and staff training. In 2009, he applied for the research project of Ministry of Personnel. The research topic was ‘Service Mechanism Study and Design for Tibetan Urban Residents Health Service Centre’. The research will be completed in 2010.

Wose Phuntsok is originally from Tibet and is currently based in Lhasa. He was a finalist for the 2010 AusAID Scholarships Australia China Alumni Award.

[ Top ]

Mr Matthew Murphy (麦铭挥), Managing Partner, MMLC Group

University of Queensland - 1999 - Masters of Law (Chinese Commerical Law and Competition Law)
Queensland University of Technology - 1993 - Bachelor of Laws / Bachelor of Business (Accounting)

Based in Beijing

Matthew Murphy is the Managing Director of the MMLC Group, a boutique international law firm. Mr Murphy, an intellectual property, mergers and acquistions lawyer, founded the group in Beijing in 2002. The firm has grown to over 30 intellectual property, tax and corporate law experts, with offices in Beijing, Guangzhou and Australia. Prior to his joining the MMLC Group, he was a Senior Associate at Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer (Hong Kong and London); an Associate at Simmons & Simmons (Hong Kong); and a Solicitor at Allens Arthur Robinson (Australia). Mr. Murphy is a member of the Law Society of UK, the Law Society of Queensland, the International Technology Law Association and the International Trademark Association (INTA). He is particularly active in international and China patent, trademark and copyright disputes, as well as cross-border restructurings, Asian M&A (including competition law), and general complex international commercial dispute resolution. In 1993, Mr Murphy graduated from the Queensland University of Technology with Bachelor of Business (Accounting) and a Bachelor of Laws. He also holds a Masters of Law (Chinese Commercial Law and Competition Law) from the University of Queensland and Hong Kong University, where he graduated in 1999. Mr Murphy speaks fluent Mandarin Chinese.

[ Top ]

Associate Professor Liao Daosheng (廖道胜), Dean of the English Department, Shaanxi Normal University; Director, Xi’an Stars English and Culture Training School

Associate Professor Liao Daosheng Edith Cowan University – 2004 – Master of Arts (Applied Linguistics)

Based in Xi’an

Associate Professor Liao Daosheng is Dean of the English Department at Shaanxi Normal University in Xi’an. His research interests focus on applied linguistics, culture and language, language teaching methodology, language learning theories and second language acquisition. In 1996, Professor Liao worked as a visiting scholar at Edith Cowan University, lecturing on Mandarin-English bilingual education programs in China to audiences from primary, secondary and tertiary institutions in Melbourne, Sydney and Christmas Island. He then stayed on at Edith Cowan University to complete a Master of Arts (Applied Linguistics) degree, graduating in 2004. In 2001, Professor Liao travelled to Los Angeles where he surveyed bilingual education programs in secondary schools and language training centres. In 2010, he conducted another survey tour in Vancouver. In addition to his role at Shaanxi Normal University, Profession Liao is the Director of the Xi’an Stars English and Culture Training School. Professor Liao has published widely on the topic of foreign language acquisition.

[ Top ]

Professor Han Feng (Fran; 韩锋), Assistant Dean, College of Architecture and Urban Design, Tongji University

Queensland University of Technology - 2007 - PhD

Based in Shanghai

Professor Han Feng is currently Professor, Department of Landscape Studies and Assistant Dean of the College of Architecture and Urban Planning at Tongji University (CAUP) in Shanghai. She completed a Doctor of Philosophy within the Built Environment and Engineering Faculty at the Queensland University of Technology in 2007.

Professor Han is an expert member and China representative of the ICOMOS-IFLA International Scientific Committee on Cultural Landscapes and an expert within the UNESCO program for Conservation and Management of World Heritage Sites in China. She is a consultant to the Chinese Government, acting as an expert in the international evaluation of World Heritage nominations. She is currently leading cultural landscape research and conversation in China, including the leadership of two World Heritage project sites in Lushan National Park and Slender Lake in Yangzhou.

Professor Han has demonstrated approximately 20 years of research within the field of landscape studies, and is published in over 10 journals and books. She has presented numerous conference papers and been the key-note speaker at high profile scientific symposiums, as well as leading site planning and design for up to 20 research and practice projects on sites throughout China, including Wudang Mountain, Tianmu Lake National Tourism Zone, Sheshan National Tourism Zone and Qiandao Lake.

Throughout her research and involvement with global scientific committees, Professor Han has continuously focused on connecting China to the international community and increased the capacity for approved World Heritage sites in China. Professor Han is a leading figure in the cultural landscapes arena and has increased China’s recognition of its heritage sites and their importance to tourism in China.

In 2010 Professor Han won the IELTS Australia China Alumni Award for Women in Leadership.

[ Top ]

Ms Holly Li (李冠仪), Regional Head, North China, Adidas Greater China

Holly Li Macquarie University (MGSM) - 2003 - Masters of Business Administration

Based in Beijing

Holly Li is an alumna of the Macquarie Graduate School of Management, graduating with an MBA in 2003. Since her return to China that year, she has enjoyed strong achievements in her career with adidas. Holly was promoted from national retail development manager to a larger role as senior business development manager in 2004. In 2005, she was promoted again to be regional director, North China, in charge of North China overall operations, distribution management and business development. This made her one of the earliest promoted Chinese directors inside adidas and she was tasked with reaching major stretch goals in North China and building a successful "impossible is nothing" story for the Beijing 2008 Olympics.

Under her leadership, adidas North China achieved dramatic annual revenue and profits growth and was awarded the "The Best Growth Region in Year 2007-2008" within the company. In 2008, adidas announced that it had achieved market leadership in China and the North China region was a major driver of this success.

Meanwhile, Holly was rewarded as The Best Coach in adidas China for 2007 through an internal staff e-vote due to her effort in developing young managers. adidas North China also received the "China's Top employers (07-08)" Beijing area award by CRF.

Between managing a multi-functional force for adidas North China and raising her young family with three kids, Holly still manages to find time to support the Macquarie Graduate School of Management’s China Study Visits, which started as an annual event in 2003.

Holly Li was a 2009 finalist for the CPA Australia - Australia China Alumni of the Year Award.

[ Top ]

Dr Chao Zhao (赵超), Deputy Head, Industrial Design Department, Tsinghua University

Queensland University of Technology - 2008 - PhD
Based in Beijing

Dr Chao Zhao is an alumnus of Queensland University of Technology, graduating with a PhD in 2008. He is currently Deputy Head of the Industrial Design Department of Tsinghua University. In this role he co-leads Industrial Design course development at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Due to Dr Zhao’s involvement, the Industrial Design Department of Tsinghua University is now the leading design education program in China and was listed as one of the top 60 design schools in the world by Business Week.

Zhao has built an impressive career of research and innovation in the industrial design field. He has designed new products ranging from express trains to mobile phones, time recorders, printing machines, air-conditioners, assembly lines and biotechnology instruments, as Chief Designer. Many of his designs have been successfully exported domestically and internationally by corporations such as CapitalBio Company China and Bolo Bathing Necessities Ceramics Company Limited.

The wide-scope of product design has won Dr Zhao numerous awards in his design career, including two National Design Excellent Awards. The volume and breadth of Zhao’s designs demonstrate his significant contribution to research and innovation in the industrial design space, and he has also published extensively, with 5 books and 19 research papers already released. Dr Zhao was awarded the Chinese Government Award for Outstanding Students Abroad, a significant award funded by the China Education Ministry and the China Scholarship Council. In 2009, Dr Zhao won the Qantas Australia China Alumni Award for Research and Innovation.

[ Top ]

Professor Liu Qiyong (刘起勇) - Assistant Director, National Institute for Communicable Diseases Control and Prevention; Director, National Department of Vector Biology and Control

Liu Qiyong Griffith University - 2006 - Master of Science (Public Health)

Based in Beijing

Professor Liu Qiyong is an alumnus of Griffith University, graduating with a Master of Science in Public Health in 2006. Since studying in and graduating from the Griffith MScPH, Professor Liu has proved himself to be one of the program's most successful graduates.

Professor Liu is a shining example of an outstanding scientist and an expert professional in the field of public health. His achievements and contributions have been far reaching, benefiting not only the academic and research organisations he has studied and worked with, but also greatly enhancing and protecting the population and environmental health of many communities throughout China and in the Asia Pacific Region.

He is extremely productive and with over 150 books and articles, over five international projects, 13 PhD/MSc student supervisions and his excellent and influential research and professional contributions to the two most pressing global health problems, climate change and vector born diseases prevention and control, and public health emergency response, he is one of the most significant global health leaders of his generation. He is now the convener for International Forum for Sustainable Management of Disease Vectors.

In 2009 Professor Liu was a finalist for the Qantas Australia China Alumni Award for Research and Innovation.

[ Top ]

Ms Kara Jenkinson – Disaster Preparedness Delegate (Guangxi), Australian Red Cross

Charles Sturt University - 2006 - Master of Arts (Forced Migration, Asylum and Refugees)
The University of Queensland - 1997 - Bachelor of Arts (Chinese)

Based in Nanning

Kara Jenkinson is an alumnus of Charles Sturt University, graduating with Distinction in 2006 with a Master of Arts (Forced Migration, Asylum and Refugees). Since July 2008, Kara has held the position of Disaster Preparedness Delegate: China for Australian Red Cross and is based in Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.

Kara’s background and work experience (including community service and volunteer work) has consistently focused on strengthening linkages between Australia and China. Her current role with the Red Cross involves supporting her counterparts at Red Cross Society of China Guangxi Branch with the design and implementation of community-based disaster preparedness activities and disaster risk mitigation measures. It involves advising on project management and administration, as well as training and capacity building of Red Cross Society of China Guangxi Branch at all levels.

Kara’s current role is also responsible for the design and facilitation of the commencement of Australian Red Cross supported Sichuan earthquake recovery programs and supporting Red Cross Community Based Health Care programs in Vietnam as well as liaison and co-operation with stakeholders such as government authorities, International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, Red Cross Society of China Headquarters and NGOs.

Kara has also held varied roles with the Australian Embassy Immigration Section, Beijing, China from 2000-2003, Kham Aid Foundation, Beijing and Sichuan, China from 2004-2006 as well as for United Nations Development Program (UNDP), Tibet Autonomous Region, China in 2007. Kara has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to aid work in China and contributing to positive Australia-China relations, and speaks and reads fluent Mandarin Chinese. In 2009 and 2010 Kara was a finalist for the Australian Education International Young Australia China Alumni of the Year Award.

[ Top ]

Ms Tan Lei (谭蕾), Deputy Director General, Qingdao Municipal Overseas Investment Promotion Bureau

Curtin University of Technology - 2002 - Master of Commerce
University of Adelaide - 2000 - Graduate Diploma in International Economics

Based in Qingdao

Tan Lei graduated from the University of Adelaide with a Graduate Diploma in International Economics. There, she received a special commendation for outstanding performance. She also has a Master of Commerce from Curtin University of Technology. In 2002, she was awarded as one of the top 100 talents working in Qingdao by the Qingdao Municipal Government.

She is presently the Deputy Director General for the Qingdao Municipal Overseas Investment Promotion Bureau of Shandong Province – a role she has held since 2000. In her role, Mrs. Tan has helped more than 100 foreign companies to set up or facilitate their business in Qingdao every year. In 2009, with the help of Mrs. Tan, the largest original Australian logistics company Pacific Network opened its China head office in Qingdao.

From 1994 to 2000, working in Shandong provincial government, she played an important role in promoting international trade of Shandong Province. Today, Shandong is the 6th largest province in terms of international trade.

Ms Tan continues to play an important role in the development of the relationship between Australia and Shandong province and Qingdao. In 2010, Ms Tan was a finalist for the IELTS Australia China Alumni Award for Women in Leadership.

[ Top ]

Professor Leng Hui (冷慧), Founder and Director, Centre for Australian Studies, Liaoning Normal University

Edith Cowan University – 2005 – PhD (Applied Linguistics)

Based in Dalian

Professor Leng Hui is the Founder and Director of the Centre for Australian Studies at Liaoning Normal University, which was established in September 2010.

Professor Leng spent nearly four years in Western Australia while completing her PhD – A Study of Intercultural Discourse between Mainland Chinese Speakers and Anglo-Australians – at Edith Cowan University. She has also spent time living in Singapore while completing a Masters in Applied Linguistics from the National University of Singapore. Professor Leng received full scholarships to complete both her PhD and her Masters degree.

As a member of the Academic Committee for the School of Foreign Languages, Liaoning Normal University, she functions as one of its leading researchers. She presented papers at international conferences in the United States, Britain, Australia, Malaysia, Beijing and Harbin, China. Her research interests include cultural linguistics, intercultural communication, cognitive linguistics and English language teaching.

[ Top ]

Ms Jenny Zhu (朱琦), Lead Host, Chinesepod.com; Host, Soulfire Radio

University of New South Wales - 2004 - Master of Policy Analysis
University of Sydney - 2002 - Bachelor of Arts (International Relations)

Based in Shanghai

Jenny is currently the lead host at Chinese Pod, the world’s leading Chinese-language learning website and podcast - with over 300,000 registered users from around the world. Chinese Pod has won numerous accolades, both at home and abroad, including being named one of Time Magazine’s Top 10 Podcasts of the Year in 2006, and Best e-Learning and Education Content (Asia), awarded by the World Summit Awards set up by the United Nation’s World Summit on Information Technology, 2009. Chinese Pod is also the exclusive content provider for Confucius Institute (China’s national department responsible for promoting Chinese globally). Jenny hosts the podcasts, as well as being involved in content development, and setting-up the company’s newly-established face-to-face learning programs. Jenny’s personal goal is to make Chinese language learning accessible to everyone.

Jenny is also a host on Soulfire radio, a national syndicated radio program in Chinese, about taste and lifestyle. Produced in Shanghai, the program is now on air in six major Chinese cities, including Shanghai and Guangzhou. Jenny was a keynote speaker at Learning 2007, one of the most influential conferences on corporate learning in the United States. Jenny has been profiled in several Shanghai magazines, and also writes a regular blog exploring and explaining modern Chinese culture.

In 2009 Jenny won the Australia China Alumni Award for Media and ICT.

[ Top ]

Mr Ian Lee (李映红), President & Chief Operating Officer, China, Omnicom Media Group

University of Technology Sydney - 1999 - Masters of Management

Based in Shanghai

Ian Lee is the President and Chief Operating Officer, China, of Omnicom Media Group (OMG). OMG is the media services division of the Omnicom Group Inc. (NYSE: OMC), a leading global advertising, marketing and corporate communications company, providing services to over 5,000 clients in over 100 countries.

Some of Ian’s key achievements include bringing OMG China from a second tier agency to one of the largest media service group agencies in China. From 2005 to 2010, he helped OMG China’s annual turnover to grow tremendously, increased staff number and capacity, developed comprehensive company policies aimed at ensuring efficiency in operations, established strong company culture with emphasis on team work and commercial viability and maintained a high level of corporate governance and transparent financial system. A 2008 R3 survey among key international clients showed that OMD China has outperformed the China market in financial transparency, and tops the list in administrative procedures.

Before joining OMG China, Ian was the Senior Vice President, Business Development with STAR Group, Hong Kong where he was responsible for developing media strategies for online, outdoor and print media.

Ian is an alumnus of the University of Technology, Sydney where he graduated with a Master of Management. In 2010 Ian was a finalist for the
ANZ Bank Australia China Alumni Award for Banking and Finance.

[ Top ]

Ms Sarah Stewart (史莎莎), International Business Development Manager, Touchmedia

University of Sydney - 2007 - Bachelor of Commerce (Liberal Studies)

Based in Shanghai

Sarah Stewart has been based in China since 2007 and is currently the International Business Development Manager at Shanghai-based interactive media company, Touchmedia. Prior to taking up her position at Touchmedia, Sarah was the Australia China Alumni Association's (ACAA) Director of Development, Shanghai. In this role Sarah established the Shanghai Branch of the ACAA; formed part of a small team that established the inaugural Australia China Alumni Awards in 2009; and led the organisation and expansion of the Awards in 2010.

In 2008, Sarah joined the Beijing Consulting Group and in this capacity worked on market entry, research and expansion projects for a range of clients in China, including both corporate and Australian Government agencies. Sarah's work with the Beijing Consulting Group has included pre-investment due diligence for leading investment banks and financial institutions, and advising foreign investors on company structure, marketing and management.

Prior to coming to China in 2007, Sarah worked for an international competitive intelligence and due diligence firm in Washington D.C., and her work covered several sectors, including industrial, automotive and consumer goods. In late 2006, a selection of Sarah's research on the pricing structure of Clean Development Mechanisms in developing countries was included in academic submissions to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.

Sarah holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Liberal Studies) from the University of Sydney, and also spent time studying at the University of California. Sarah speaks conversational Mandarin and is an Asia Ambassador for Business Events Sydney.

[ Top ]

Mr Abhishek (Abhie) Vaidya (马龙) Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Nelscorp

University of Southern Queensland – 2004 – Postgraduate Certificate in Supply Chain Management

Based in Chongqing

Abhishek (Abhie) Vaidya is the Chief Executive Officer of the innovative IT solutions company, Nelscorp, which he founded in 2006. Combining strong experience in Asia, capabilities across a multitude of industries and extensive interaction with the world's most successful global companies, Nelscorp collaborates with clients to help them become more efficient businesses. The organization also owns the e-commerce B2C property, Autumn-Legend.

Originally from India, Abhie has spent many years living in China, in both Guangzhou and Chongqing, where he is currently based. Abhie has also managed projects in India, the Philippines, Australia, the United States and Japan.

Abhie holds both a Bachelor of Science and a Masters of Business Administration, from Himachal Pradesh University and in 2004 gained a Postgraduate Certificate in Supply Chain Management from the University of Southern Queensland.

[ Top ]

Ms Anthea Webb (韦安夏), Director (China), United Nations World Food Program

Australian National University - 1998 - Masters of International Relations
Charles Sturt University - 1991 - Bachelor of Arts (Communications)

Based in Beijing

Anthea Webb has been the Director of the United Nations World Food Program (WFP) in China since 2007. In this role, her list of achievements include raising US $19 million from the Chinese government for WFP humanitarian operations in developing countries, appointing WFP's first ever Chinese Ambassador Against Hunger, Chinese Olympian Mr Li Ning, and leading WFP’s emergency responses to the Sichuan and Qinghai earthquakes.

Before taking her current position in China, Ms Webb worked in the donor relations and communications divisions at WFP’s headquarters. She specialised in building relations with new partners, including new European Union member states. During a term as chief of WFP’s publications unit, Webb managed editorial advertising campaigns run in the Financial Times, the Economist, the International Herald Tribune, TIME, Newsweek, Fortune and Business Week.

Prior to joining WFP in 1998, Ms Webb worked for AusAID, the Australian Government’s aid agency and for the Jesuit Refugee Service. She has field experience with refugees from Cambodia, Rwanda, Sudan, Vietnam and former Yugoslavia.

Ms Webb holds a Bachelor of Arts (Communications) from Charles Sturt University and a Masters of International Relations from Australian National University.

[ Top ]

Professor Zhang Ling (张玲), Vice-President, International Exchange Office, Huaihua University

University of Sydney – 2005 – Masters of Education (TESOL)

Based in Huaihua

After graduating from Hunan Normal University with a BA in linguistics and English literature, Professor Zhang Ling worked for the Hunan University of Humanities, Science and Technology (HUHST) as an English teacher and administrator for 20 years. At HUHST she held the position of Deputy Dean of the English Department for 7 years and was Director of Foreign Affairs Office for 9 years. From 1993 to 1994, she worked in Thailand as a Chinese Visiting Teacher at the Phuket Vocational Technology School.

Professor Zhang Ling gained her a Master’s Degree of Education in TESOL with merit in 2005. From 2007 to 2008, Professor Zhang Ling worked with Professor Michael Singh as a Visiting Research Scholar at the University of Sydney School of Education. Since gaining her Masters, Professor Zhang has been a member of the Asian Association of TEFL and the Cambridge Young Learner’s Team of UCLES. She specialises in English language teaching and learning in an Asian context. She has taken a lead role in several research programs for Hunan learners and teachers of English aimed at building their English language proficiency and cultural understanding.

In 2006, Professor Zhang began her doctorate degree with the School of Education at the University of Nottingham, United Kingdom.

Professor Zhang is currently based at Huaihua University, Hunan Province where she is Vice-President of the International Exchange Office and the university libraries. She is committed to building opportunities for exchange between foreign and domestic college teachers and students, building their intercultural capacity and understanding and encouraging people to learn to live together in tolerance and harmony.

[ Top ]

Ms Li Xin (李新), Public Affairs and Culture Assistant, Australian Embassy, China

University of Queensland – 2010 – Master of Arts in Translation and Interpreting (English and Chinese)

Based in Beijing

After spending close to six years working for the China Daily as a news translator and web editor, Ms Li traveled to Australia in pursuit of further education. She commenced her Master of Arts in Translation and Interpreting degree in 2009 at the University of Queensland. While completing her degree, Ms Li honed her language skills by working as as a freelancer and contract interpreter for Austchina Translation and Winglong Australia. These experiences living and working in Australia gave Ms Li an appreciation for and understanding of Australia, its peoples and its culture. While in Australia she also gained professional accreditation as an Interpreter and Translator through the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters Australia (NAATI) and became a member of the Australian Institute of Translators and Interpreters (AUSIT).

After graduating from her Masters degree, Ms Li returned to China to take up her current position as a Public Affairs and Culture Assistant at the Australian Embassy in Beijing. In this role, Ms Li works as a translator, interpreter and website manager supporting Imagine Australia, the Year of Australian Culture in China. Imagine Australia is the Australian Government’s largest and most significant cultural exchange program in China to date and has featured some of Australia’s finest performing and visual artists. Ms Li finds it rewarding to work at the Australian Embassy as it gives her the opportunity to put what she has learned into practice. She also loves her role in introducing elite Australian art and culture to China and seeing the Australia China relationship grow.

[ Top ]

Mr Li Jing (李晶) Chief Representative, Van der Wal Holding BV

University of Southern Queensland – 2006 - Bachelor of Business Administration

Based in Jinhua

In 2006 Mr Li Jing graduated with a double degree in Business Management and Business Administration from Zhejiang University and the University of Southern Queensland. Mr Li then travelled to the Netherlands to complete further study at the HAN University of Applied Sciences. He studied and worked in Arnhem and Utrecht for three and an half years before returning to China to set up a Van der Wal Holding BV office in his hometown of Jinhua.

Mr Li is now Chief Representative (China) for Van der Wal Holding BV, one of the largest transport companies in the Netherlands. In this role, Mr Li manages the company’s marketing and operations activities in China. This involves transporting cargo from China to the Commonwealth of Independent States, the Middle East and even Europe by road.

Mr Li hopes to travel to Australia in the future and looks forward to enjoying Australian beaches and the weather.

[ Top ]

Ms Jiang Ling (Linda; 江玲), Lecturer, Anhui Institute of International Business and Project Manager, Foreign Exchange Office, Anhui Education Department

University of Western Australia - 2009 - Masters in Educational Management

Based in Hefei

In 2008, Ms Jiang Ling won an Endeavour Postgraduate Award from the Australian Government to study a Masters of Education Management at the University of Western Australia. On completing her masters degree, Ms Jiang returned to work as a lecturer in the Foreign Languages Department of the Anhui Institute of International Business. In addition to this role, Ms Jiang also works as a part-time Project Manager for the Foreign Affairs Office of the Anhui Education Department. In this role, Ms Jiang is responsible for the design and management of various international exchange and cooperation projects. In the past few years, Ms Jiang has successfully managed several inter-school exchange programs, including a number of exchanges between schools in Anhui and Western Australia. Five secondary schools and two primary schools in Anhui Province have now developed exchange and cooperation agreements with their counterparts in Western Australia. Jiang Ling has also worked to build relationships between higher education institutes in Anhui and Curtin University of Technology and the University of Western Australia.

[ Top ]

Ms Anna Willett, Independent Photography Professional, Anna Willett Photography

Anna Willett Southern Cross University – 1999 – Master of Business Administration

Based in Shanghai

Anna Willett started out as a professional photographer in Shanghai after years of taking photographs as a hobby. In 2009, Anna held an exhibition in support of the Jo Charles Foundation. This exhibition, which featured images of life in Sichuan’s Xichang city, helped to launch her career and raised funds for the foundation. In the winter of 2011, with the support of the Mi Fan Mama’s volunteer organisation, Anna stayed at Lao Wang’s Orphanage in Anhui Province. Anna’s photos from Anhui offer a fascinating insight into life in a Chinese orphanage and give the viewer a “behind the scenes look at the what, how and who”. Anna plans to publish her photos from Anhui in a book with the proceeds to support orphan education.

Aside from her charity work, Anna specialises in outdoor family portraits and event photography and has a keen interest in food and travel photography. Anna was the official photographer for the Australian Pavilion at the Shanghai World Expo in 2010. She has also been on hand to capture the Shanghai visits of Australian dignitaries including the Governor-General, Ms Quentin Bryce AC, and Ministers Kevin Rudd, Stephen Smith, Simon Crean and Wayne Swan. Anna holds a Master of Business Administration from Southern Cross University.