FAW-VW executives praise Qingdao's appeal for international talent

Foreign executives at FAW-Volkswagen's plant in Qingdao have said the eastern Chinese city offers an attractive mix of business opportunities and quality of life that's drawing international talent.

The executives shared their experiences at a forum co-hosted by the Foreign Talent Research Center of the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security and the Qingdao Municipal Bureau of Science and Technology, praising the city's beautiful surroundings, unique culture and vibrant community.

Foreign executives from FAW-Volkswagen's Qingdao operations share insights on life in the city during a discussion co-hosted by the Foreign Talent Research Center of the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security and the Qingdao Municipal Bureau of Science and Technology in Qingdao, Shandong province, Sept. 3, 2025. [Photo by Chen Xinyan/China.org.cn]

The seaside city's scenery attracts international professionals considering relocation, with beaches and mountain views providing an appealing backdrop for expatriate workers.

Torres Bruno, plant general manager at FAW-Volkswagen's Qingdao branch, called the city his "second home." "Qingdao is not a big city in China, but I'm quite pleased," Bruno said, citing the natural environment's appeal.

Korb Alexander, head of series planning and industrial engineering, echoed Bruno's sentiments, noting, "We love being in nature and near the sea. This, for me, was one very attractive point when I came here." He praised the opportunities for outdoor activities, which promote a healthy and active lifestyle.

Beyond its scenery, Qingdao's high level of security contributes to residents' comfort. Bruno highlighted this aspect: "You can go out at any time of the day to walk or jog without any safety concerns." The safety particularly appeals to expats bringing families to China.

Language barriers don't prevent meaningful connections with locals in Qingdao, Bruno said, emphasizing that local residents' warmth helps foreign professionals feel at home.

"I feel really welcomed in Qingdao," Bruno said, noting that simple gestures bridge communication gaps: "Even without speaking, I can interact with gestures."

Bruno highlighted China's rapid development pace compared to Western markets. "The speed of change here is quite fast compared to the Western world. Everything you do here is executed quickly and with purpose," he said.

Volkswagen has accelerated car development timelines in China under its "In China, for China" strategy.

"In the past, car development took two to three years; now we can do it in just one and a half years," Bruno said. He believes this pace could drive changes in Western markets and transform the global automobile industry.