BCG - The Boston Consulting Group

BCG's Shanghai office serves as the hub for all of BCG's consulting activities in China. BCG was the first multinational consulting firm authorized to conduct business in China through a joint venture (1993). Subsequently, BCG repositioned the office as a "wholly owned foreign entity" to enable better control of day-to-day operations and allow greater operational latitude throughout the People's Republic of China.

The office is located in the heart of Shanghai next to the People's Park, the world-class Shanghai Museum, and the striking Shanghai Grand Theatre. BCG Shanghai's central location makes it easy to reach most places in the city, whether for business or an evening out on the town. Shanghai's main airport, Hongqiao, is a short 25-minute ride away and Pudong Airport is still considered close. Most consultants chose to live in the city near the office, often in the nearby French Concession. Good housing, which consists of either newly built, high-rise apartments or circa 1930s refurbished villas, can be found in Shanghai.

As of 2003, the Shanghai office was home to more than 30 consultants. More than 90 percent of the staff have worked or studied internationally. Many are PRC natives. Nearly all speak fluent Mandarin and English and have lived in China for many years. Having a staff that speaks the local language and understands the local business environment is crucial to BCG's ongoing success in China. An important objective for the office is to bring to our clients the insightful business solutions that they expect but in a way that accommodates Chinese business conditions.

Shanghai is an exciting place to begin a consulting career in Asia. China is one of the fastest growing economies in the world and Shanghai will be the doorway to this rapidly changing new market. BCG Shanghai's clientele is diverse, including local firms, both private and state-owned, and multinational companies. Project work covers a broad range of industry areas that include financial services, consumer goods, pharmaceuticals and health care, industrial goods, technology, telecommunications, and e-commerce.

While the work life at BCG Shanghai can be demanding at times, the office places great importance on building a sense of community and teamwork. The office has regular get-togethers where we share our project experiences and keep in touch with developments across the BCG network. For fun, the office organizes outings that may include sporting events, karaoke nights, and dinners.