The European Chamber Appoints a New Secretary General Go back »

2007-06-04 | Beijing

Michael O’Sullivan has worked in Beijing for the last seven years as Director of the British Council’s operations in Mainland China, and since 2005, Hong Kong. He is also a Counsellor at the British Embassy and is the longest serving “ex offico” ExCo member of the British Chamber of Commerce in Beijing. With some 450 staff in five cities, British Council China works to promote the UK as a partner of China in the areas of education, culture, science and social development. Michael has led the British Council through a period of rapid expansion in China, in particular by growing paid customer services such as examinations; management services for clients such as the European Commission, the UK Government and British universities; partnerships with Chinese government bodies; and commercial sponsorship.

Michael first came to China in 1982 as an English teacher, and has spent 15 of the last 25 years here. He was born and grew up in the UK, and holds British and Irish nationality. He is married to Moira and they have three children. In addition to English and Chinese, Michael speaks French and German.

Looking forward to his new job, Michael commented:

"I’m excited about joining the European Chamber team in August and helping to develop a strong, sustainable, independent organisation to support European business in China, building on the Chamber’s rapid growth of recent years. Although only a 500 metre move from Landmark Towers to Lufthansa Centre, for me it is a transition into a new area of business, and so I’ll have much to learn from my colleagues and our members. What I’ll bring with me is experience of creating a successful networked operation in China, developing new streams of income and building strong relationships with Chinese and international partners”.

In announcing this appointment, Chamber President Joerg Wuttke further commented:

"I am very pleased that the EUCCC entrusts such an experienced professional with the next steps in the success story European Chamber in China. Michael not only speaks 3 European languages but also Chinese, and he has a strong track record in managing successfully an organisation across China. I am sure his down-to-earth style will be a wonderful addition to our team”.

Ian Kay will continue in the role of Secretary General until Mr O’Sulllivan joins.