INTRODUCTION TO ASDAN CHINA

ASDAN is both a curriculum development organization and an examination board, which provides a wide variety of courses, resources and qualifications that teachers use to recognize and reward activities undertaken by young people outside of their formal academic subject work. ASDAN develops and accredit skills for learning, employment and living. It was founded 30 years ago and now works with 6,000 schools, colleges and education providers across the UK. Its headquarters are in Bristol, England.

In 2011 ASDAN formed a partnership with SEED International to create ASDAN China, with an office in Beijing. Our activities range from work with high schools across China, to running unique mini-MBA programmes in Europe, UK & USA, to an intensive Model United Nation conferences in the USA, to participation in Silk Road cultural trips across China, and to volunteer programmes on Hainan.

Currently, there are over 4,000 Chinese students involved in ASDAN programmes each year, and the number is growing very fast. Because of this rapid growth ASDAN China is looking to recruit graduates from EU or UK universities to join its young and dynamic “Project China” team in our Beijing office. Currently we have 20 people in Beijing, with 40% from the UK, USA, EU or South America, and the remainder Chinese nationals. 90% of our staff have been with the company for at least 12 months.

The main focus of the job will be with our international programmes (including leading two-week long study trips to UK, EU and USA for groups of Chinese high school students), and with international departments in high schools within China. This is a very interesting opportunity for someone who is resourceful, energetic and a good team player and it will give you the chance to develop and hone your skills in running projects on an international platform. Initially this contract would be for one year, but it is hoped that this would be extended by mutual agreement.

Below is a more detailed job description, together with case studies of two of ASDAN China’s current staff who joined us from Germany and Ireland respectively.

Main tasks:
i)Contribute to and lead conferences and seminars for education sector staff in China (mainly principals and teachers)
ii)Organise different programmes in China like business simulation events, mathematics tournaments, leadership training, and cultural study trips
iii)Design and deliver personal skills trainings
iv)Coach and assist client schools/organisations with their school/organisation activities
v)Design and promote different educational programmes based on the market needs.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE JOB

i)A great learning experience in Beijing: our office is close to the 2008 Olympic Park
ii)Based in China, but with the opportunity to lead programmes in UK/Europe/USA/Canada/Australia, as well as travelling to different cities in China
iii)An excellent opportunity to learn Chinese in a context where you will be living and working with Mandarin speakers (who are also all pretty fluent in English!)
iv)A young, passionate and international team, who make the most of every opportunity!
v)Free accommodation is offered 10 minutes from the office
vi)Friendly and creative working environment within a flexible working culture
Encouragement for entrepreneurship and creativity: if you can design a programme in your dream country, we will support you with financial back up and human resources!

PERSON SPECIFICATION

i)Willingness to commit for at least one year
ii)Native speaker
iii)Good organisational and entrepreneurial skills
iv)Maturity and international experience
v)Reliable, happy and flexible personality
i)Preferred: work experience in a project/business development environment
ii)Preferred: degree in Business/Economics

CASE STUDIES OF CURRENT ASDAN CHINA EMPLOYEES FROM EU/UK

Case study 1: Kathrin Schmid

Academic Director for ASDAN China

Employed with ASDAN China since September 2012

Having graduated from Heidelberg University in Germany with an International Management degree (HIMH) in Tourism Management, I was looking to broaden my horizons though working in an international environment. Originally I wanted to come to China only for an internship, but the company offered me so many opportunities to improve and develop myself that I decided to stay longer and have now been in China two years.

My job is challenging, diverse, and never boring, and I really enjoy working in an international environment. During my time here I have travelled throughout China as well as abroad. One of our most exciting programmes is our “Mini-MBA” where we take Chinese high-school students on a study trip to the UK, USA or the EU to learn about western business and improve their personal skills.

By organizing and leading these trips, I have developed and refined a wide range of personal and professional skills and now have a much richer understanding of the differences between China and Europe. Working for ASDAN China means not just gaining international experience but also improving yourself by taking responsibility for management and co-ordination of a wide range of interesting tasks.

Case Study 2: Sean McNally
Academic Specialist for ASDAN China
Employed with ASDAN China since September 2012
After finishing my university degree in Politics, Philosophy and Economics in Queen’s university, I was keen to gain some international experience in China. I had previously worked as a teacher for 6 weeks in Shanghai and wanted to gain a working insight into Beijing life. Working for the company has been a great way to integrate into life in China while also gaining numerous skills.
During my time here I have travelled throughout China on different programmes with the company and improved my skills in marketing, sales, leadership and organization. Originally I only planned to stay for 6 months, but I have extended my time with the company for another year. I feel the company is a great environment for improving my skills and experience because I have been given plenty or responsibility and support during my time here.

APPLICATION FOR A POST WITH ASDAN CHINA

ASDAN China will open 1 position in September. If you are interested to apply to ASDAN China, please email your motivation letter including a summary of your degree course and any relevant work experience, and explain why you think you would be an appropriate candidate. Please also attach your CV. Interviews will be arranged through skype.