Pros

Benefit packages and additional amenities provided by the company are a big pro. Although base salary may be somewhat low compared to foreign companies, things like vacation days, bonuses, tax-saving programs and other perks can make up for it. Also, depending on need, the company provides apartments, runs a school, partners with shops and restaurants for employee discounts, and is associated with local hospitals and organizations that also make employee life easier. This is very helpful for those moving to China for SMIC.

Cons

Senior management and corporate culture are two giant negatives. Many members of upper management are incompetent and stubborn. The sycophants stay, while the free-thinkers tend to move on. Turnover is relatively high and general employee satisfaction is low for those with foreign work experience. Also, with a large amount of conservative Christians in all levels of the corporation, religious issues and biases may come into play in many inappropriate situations that border on harrassment, depending on the situation. These issues can be overwhelming for some people, while others deal with it.

Other things like low compensation, low stock price, and general complaints basically depend on the person and their level of patience, understanding, and personal reasons for being at SMIC. There is a lot of blame and finger pointing, but at the end of the day, each person needs to take responsibility for the choice they made to join the company, for better or worse.

Advice to Senior Management

Listen to your employees and actually consider their opinions. Don't be afraid to speak up to the executives and CEO. Think outside of the box. Don't be so lazy. Learn to be a team-player and cooperate with other managers.