Submitted By: Erik Slayter

I recently received an email from Grant Thornton (a large, global accounting firm) describing to me what they call their “Interest” program. It is interesting to me that they are rolling out this program focusing specifically on the Chinese market. We have several accountants in the MBA program…is this enticing to you?

Under phase 1 of this program, Grant Thornton (GT) works with Chinese Nationals from the People’s Republic of China. Through this program, these accounting professionals are sponsored by GT for a 2-3 year work visa and work in a GT US office. Interest participants have a compensation package similar to that of other professionals at their same level in the US. Additionally, participants receive the same firm training as their colleagues and are provided a coach to assist in their skills development.

At the end of their 2-3 year stint in the US, they return to China for a position with the Grant Thornton International firm in China.

GT states that their program is different than a traditional exchange program offered by other firms because they have a larger dedication to their participants. Interest professionals meet annually with the firm’s national and international leadership to learn about specific Chinese initiatives. Biannually they participate in a videoconference link to the Shanghai or Beijing office to receive an general business update by a partner in the Chinese member firm. Finally, an annual visit home provides the Interest participant to meet with other Chinese professionals to develop relationships they can build on upon their return.