Lest we be accused of perpetually harping on protectionist tendencies everywhere but the Asia-Pacific, here's an equaliser: firms in the region do prefer to hire local executives. This apparent parochialism unfortunately also infects multinationals here.
A recent report from the New York-based Conference Board says major firms in the Asia-Pacific are developing a taste for the incredibly rare morsels of 'indigenous' executives, instead of the usually pricey plates of expatriates.
The Conference Board, a non-partisan and not-for-profit business and research organisation, produces the US Consumer Confidence Index and Leading Economic Indicators, whose numbers can move markets. Hence, the survey carries some clout.
The research included case studies of 55 companies operating in the region, including deep-blue multinationals such as British Petroleum, Credit Suisse Group, Hong Kong's MTR Corp, and electronics giant Philips.
One disturbing trend that the survey has unearthed is that this expatriate downsizing - to use a human-resources industry buzzword - is well under way. 'Many international companies are trying to reduce the number of expatriates and international assignees who are occupying longer-term - as opposed to developmental - leadership roles,' the report says.
In other words, companies in the region are ready to hire expatriates to start or expand their businesses but would rather have locals manage the operations over the long haul, especially as these native executives are seen as highly competent in terms of cultural understanding, adaptation, collaboration, teamwork and communication.