Baidu’s PR Head Qu Jing Leaves Company After Controversial Videos Spark Backlash
Qu Jing, the public relations head of Baidu, has left the company following a series of social media videos that caused a stir in China’s tech sector. In the videos, Qu was seen demanding long hours and unwavering dedication from her team members, sparking outrage over workplace practices.
The videos, intended to teach staff how to use their personal social media accounts to promote Baidu, instead led to criticism and backlash. Qu’s departure from the company was confirmed by sources familiar with the matter, although Baidu has not yet commented on the situation.
In her apology on social media, Qu acknowledged that her videos had created misunderstandings about Baidu’s values and culture. One of the videos, in which she dismissed concerns about work-life balance, particularly struck a nerve with viewers. Qu’s comments reignited discussions about the “996” work culture in China, where employees are expected to work long hours, often six days a week.
Ivy Yang, a corporate communications expert, noted that Qu’s remarks shed light on the attitudes of top corporate executives in China towards their employees. The incident has prompted a reevaluation of the employer-employee relationship in the country.
Despite the controversy, Baidu remains focused on self-renewal and innovation, with plans to position itself as China’s leading player in generative artificial intelligence. The company’s market value has faced challenges in recent years, but it continues to invest in cutting-edge technologies like its chatbot Ernie.
Qu’s departure marks a significant moment for Baidu as it navigates a changing tech landscape and strives to regain its competitive edge in the industry.