SCEN-CFS LECTURE 2026
From Chinese Characters to China Careers
This year’s SCEN lecture will be an informal talk highlighting the opportunities which studying Chinese and engaging with China has to offer … presented by two individuals whose curiosity has taken their career paths across the world and provided them with unforgettable experiences – from the everyday to the extraordinary – and a peek through the different lens of life in China.
The lecture aims not only to inform but to inspire. It is particularly designed for students who are currently learning Chinese, or considering doing so, and who are curious about where their language studies might lead in the future.
As in previous years, the evening will include time for discussion and informal networking over soft drinks and light refreshments.
The Lecture will be held on Thursday, 19 March 2026, 5:00pm -7:00pm at Hall A, 40 George Square, The University of Edinburgh.
*17:00-17:30 - Teas and Coffees available on arrival
*17:30-18:30 - Lecture by Julia Herries and Francesca Leiper
*18:30-19:00 - Networking. Soft drinks available
The talk will be followed by a networking opportunity. People who are associated with SCEN or interested in or involved with China or with language learning will be able to engage face-to-face. Refreshments will be available on arrival and during the networking portion of the evening.
School and university students are particularly welcome to attend this event.
There are a limited number of seats, so book now to guarantee
your ticket to this fascinating lecture.
Julia Herries has over 30 years of international business and investment experience across Asia, the UK, the US and South America. Most recently, she served as Commissioner for Trade and Investment Queensland in Hong Kong before returning to Scotland in 2023. She now works with Engage with China, continuing her long-standing involvement in UK–China engagement. She has also held senior leadership roles in the Hong Kong offices of the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, the Australian Graduate School of Management, the Graduate Management Admission Council, and the University of Oxford. Earlier in her career, Julia worked in investment promotion and corporate finance across multiple regions. She is a Mandarin speaker and holds both a BA and an MA in East Asian Studies from Indiana University (Bloomington), USA. it stand out
Francesca Leiper is an Edinburgh-based Chinese art and publishing specialist and fluent Mandarin speaker. She holds an MA in Chinese Art History from Nanjing University of the Arts and a BA in Chinese and Art History from SOAS. Formerly Business Development Manager at the Confucius Institute at Oxford Brookes University, she led publishing initiatives, student exchanges and major cultural events, including the exhibition Behind the Masks: Discovering Sanxingdui and Jinsha. Francesca previously lived in China for seven years, working as an assistant editor at Guangxi Normal University Press and collaborating with leading design studios and museums in Nanjing.Make it stand out
