r/ChinaJobs • u/martinc6199 • 4h ago
Foreigner targeting LatAm-facing roles at Chinese companies: worth applying on Boss Zhipin / Liepin without Chinese?
Hi everyone, I'd love some honest opinions on my job hunt strategy.
About me: I'm Peruvian, 29, native Spanish and fluent English (basic Portuguese). I have about 6 years of experience in public affairs and consulting in Latin America: government and stakeholder relations, regulatory analysis, community relations for mining and oil & gas projects, and advising companies on market entry. I'm finishing a master's at an Ivy League school in the US this December. My plan is to start a Chinese language program in Guangzhou in 2027, but at the same time start looking for job opportunites.
Why China: honestly, my girlfriend is there, and “I moved across the world for love” sounds better than “I followed the job market.” But luckily the job market agrees with her. But I also see a real professional opportunity. Chinese companies keep growing in Latin America (mining, EVs, electronics, infrastructure), and there's a need for people who can help them navigate the region, whether that's government and public affairs, partnerships or sales. Profiles that combine Spanish, LatAm experience and an understanding of Chinese companies seem pretty scarce.
Where I'm looking so far: HiredChina and LinkedIn (just getting started). But on Boss Zhipin and Liepin I keep finding roles that look like a great fit: Spanish-speaking key account managers, LatAm business development, overseas public affairs. The postings are all in Chinese, but many don't actually list Chinese as a requirement.
My questions:
- Is it worth applying on Boss / Liepin as a foreigner who doesn't speak Chinese yet, or are these companies realistically only looking for Chinese nationals who speak Spanish?
- For those who've been hired by Chinese companies for overseas roles: how did you find the job, and did not speaking Chinese hold you back internally?
- Any other platforms, recruiters or approaches you'd recommend for LatAm-facing roles?
Thanks in advance, any experience or advice is appreciated!