Wang Jingli

wangjingli0715@163.com

MAKSIM SILENKO, a Russian HR professional, has dedicated his career to recruiting international talent and fostering understanding between people with different backgrounds.

Maksim moved to Shenzhen in 2018 and joined Shenzhen MSU-BIT University (SMBU), the first Sino-Russian cooperative university, the next year. Currently serving as assistant director of SMBU’s HR department, he is primarily responsible for recruiting professors and teachers from overseas.

As an HR professional, Maksim praised Shenzhen’s comprehensive support for global talent, including financial incentives, research facilities, and life facilitation services, which has significantly advanced his work.

Over the past six years, Maksim has witnessed the university’s remarkable growth. He stated that today, SMBU hosts over 400 teachers from abroad and 400 Russian students.

To find the right candidates, Maksim carefully considers the university’s needs, Shenzhen’s development goals, applicants’ educational backgrounds, and the applicants’ academic and research achievements.

Though his degree in electronics and information engineering may seem unrelated to HR, Maksim believes it helps him identify top talent in technical fields.

Convinced that meaningful connections begin with people, Maksim sees Shenzhen’s talent attraction efforts as not only boosting the city’s development but also strengthening friendship.

Among his notable achievements, Maksim highlights his pivotal role in helping local governments identify and recruit foreign experts — a contribution that has strengthened Shenzhen’s international talent pool.

“I have attended international events like the BRICS Forum on Future Networks Innovation and meetings organized by the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, expanding my network and enhancing my HR work,” said Maksim.

Last year, he helped over 130 professors — mostly from Russia — apply for positions in Longgang, Yantian, Pingshan, and Futian districts. This year, the number rose to 300.

“Even if only a few are selected, this feels like a huge achievement,” he said.

Beyond recruitment, Maksim is passionate about helping international students engage with local society. He joined the Z10 Club, initiated by EyeShenzhen, to mentor young SMBU students.

“Though I’m older than most members, I hope to guide students to connect with international peers across Shenzhen,” he shared.

Maksim admires Shenzhen’s youthful energy, greenery, and innovation-driven spirit. He also enjoys weekend park outings with his family.

“Shenzhen is an important place for me. It is a big part of my life. My children were born here, and my family is here. If I ever leave, I will miss it dearly. But I hope to stay,” said Maksim.