Chinese search engine giant Baidu faces a public relations headache after the head of its own PR department struck a nerve with a series of videos on social media, reports Nikkei Asia. The PR chief, Qu Jing, released the clips on TikTok’s Chinese sister Douyin, portraying herself as a tough-as-nails manager. She stated that she has no responsibility for her subordinates’ personal well-being. She claimed to be so devoted to the company that she does not know what grade her son is in at school. And she said that she “has the power to make sure anyone who complains about her won’t find a job in the industry.”
Qu’s remarks stirred controversy in a country where tech companies have long been criticized for grueling working conditions. Some users directed their anger at Baidu, saying it lacks “empathy” and a sense of social responsibility.
The videos have since been taken down.