Hu Jian, a former executive from state media, has been appointed as the deputy director of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs' personnel department.
This role involves implementing personnel decisions and managing the appointment and dismissal of diplomats.
Previously, Hu worked for Nanfang Daily Newspaper Group and served at the foreign ministry's press and public diplomacy department.
His appointment reflects a trend of drawing talent from beyond traditional diplomatic backgrounds.
The Nanfang Daily group, despite being state-affiliated, was known for its limited media freedom and investigative reporting.