Ms. GRACE GAO (Human Resources Department, WebEx): (Through Translator) Hefei has many high-quality engineers from very good universities, so it's a very attractive city.

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In a statement, the BBC said Ms Granger was "an experienced expert in human resources issues" who, for the past four years had worked as a consultant and executive coach with a "range of public and private sector clients".

BBC: Russell Joslin death: Lesley Granger heads BBC inquiry

Ms Munnell and Mr Sass cite a study of human-resources professionals indicating that older employees were valued for their loyalty and reliability but less highly rated in terms of flexibility, showing initiative and understanding technology.

ECONOMIST: All hands on deck