Miao Miao

Manager International Affairs − Cathay Pacific
Shanghai International Studies University − Bachelor of Arts (International Journalism)
Joined the Swire Mainland China Management Trainee Programme in 2003

As I lived very near to Fudan University, I decided to attend Swire's recruitment talk. I learnt that Swire is a very interesting company, very diversified. The training programme also seemed to be well designed, with overseas secondment opportunities. A big appeal, for me, was that it would give me exposure to a western style of management.

I was first posted to the Marketing department, which was very hands-on. I was immediately involved in co-ordinating all aspects of the Rugby Sevens event - everything from delivering the print and TV ads to event planning and production. I was then sent to Bangkok as assistant to the General Manager in South-east Asia, where my role focused on relocating our operations from the old Don Muang International Airport to the new Suvarnabhumi Airport.

I think the rotational nature of the programme opens your eyes to all the different operational facets of the business. By taking up key positions early in our careers, trainees are encouraged to take on real responsibility. This, in turn, teaches us the importance of integrity in everything we do.

After graduating from the programme, I became the Assistant Marketing Manager for Cathay Pacific. I supported the Hong Kong sales office, and was responsible for local branding, tactical promotion and trade marketing and events. Today, I'm responsible for air services development of the airline between Hong Kong and the Mainland, Taiwan, Southeast Aisa and North Asia. We support a great deal of government relationships and contribute not only to the success of the airline but also to the economic and social development of Hong Kong.

The most exciting experience in my career so far was during the outport posting in Beijing. Dragonair had just recently merged with Cathay Pacific, so there was a lot of complexity in the operation. It was a very challenging brief because I had to motivate a young team to work efficiently within a fast-changing environment. The dynamics had to be just right.

Though I have to move around in my career, I'm lucky that I have my husband's full support. However, my hours are reasonable and I have enough time for my hobbies, which include photography - a passion of mine - and reading about different cultures and food and wine tasting.

In terms of its aviation business, the merger with Dragonair and our partnership with Air China means we now have a much bigger domestic network in China. There are a lot of great opportunities in the Greater China region, and Swire's investment in this market makes it a great arena in which to develop your talents.