Jinqing Caroline Cai
Jinqing Cai | |
|---|---|
| Born | Beijing, China |
| Occupation | Business executive |
| Years active | 1997–present |
| Known for | President of Kering Greater China; former head of Christie's China operations |
Jinqing Cai serves as the President of Kering Greater China and previously headed Christie's operations in China, where she orchestrated Christie's inaugural auction on Chinese soil, achieving sales of USD $25 million. Before assuming top positions at Christie's, she gained experience with the Brunswick Group, New Alliance Consulting International, and k1 Ventures.
Early life and education
Cai was born in Beijing and initially pursued Chemistry studies at Beijing University from 1986 to 1989. She later transferred to Wellesley College, earning bachelor's degrees in Arts, Chemistry, and Economics. Between 1991 and 1993, she completed master's programs in Public Affairs, Economics, and Public Policy at Princeton University.
Early career
In 1997, Cai relocated to Hong Kong to join a venture capital firm that invested in sectors such as media, entertainment, and internet enterprises. She returned to Beijing in 2002 to establish New Alliance, a public relations consultancy specializing in government affairs, corporate communications, and media relations. Notably, New Alliance managed the first annual Boao Forum for Asia. By 2005, Cai became a partner at Brunswick, focusing on financial communications and executive advisory services, playing a key role in significant transactions including CNOOC's bid for Unocal and Geely's purchase of Volvo.
Time at Christie's
On June 1, 2012, Cai was appointed as the inaugural Managing Director of Christie's China branch, operating out of Shanghai while providing insights on both Chinese and international art markets. She led Christie's first auction within mainland China which, combined with exhibitions, lectures, and private sales, totaled RMB 154 million (USD $25 million). Cai highlighted Christie's objective to connect Chinese collectors directly with its global platform and to elevate Chinese art's profile worldwide.
Under her guidance, on October 22, 2014, Christie's launched a new gallery and office near Shanghai's Bund area. During its debut year, the Shanghai location facilitated sales of contemporary Chinese art, modern art pieces, fine wines, and jewellery. The top transaction was Zeng Fanzhi's Untitled 06-3, which sold for RMB 19.5 million (USD $3.2 million). Over three auctions commemorating the office’s first anniversary, approximately 150 items were sold with total proceeds amounting to RMB 132 million (USD $21 million).
In January 2015, Cai earned a place on Foreign Policy magazine's Pacific Power Index for her influential role in shaping U.S.-China relations.
She took on the role of President for Kering Greater China in 2018.