Bringing the boom to China

Hollywood style of functioning can boost returns for Chinese companies

Though China has become a key market for film companies, it has a long way to go before it can create a Hollywood-like ecosystem for the global entertainment industry, said Jack Gao. He added that the booming domestic market provides enough cushion for companies to move up the ladder, especially if they can surmount challenges like talent shortages and financing.

Gao has worn many hats during his long and storied career. He has handled all of his roles with equal aplomb - be it as the president of Microsoft China, as the senior vice-president of Rupert Murdoch's News Corp or in his recent role as chairman and chief executive officer of Bison Entertainment Media Group, a company with businesses including entertainment, retail, health care and tourism.