The demand for foreigners among Beijing's consultancy companies is expected to rise in 2011, with some experts predicting the level could eventually top the levels before the financial crisis hit in 2008.

Consultancy work has been a traditional industry for expats in China, with opportunities mainly in human resources management and public relations.

British recruitment firm Antal International plans to substantially increase its foreign staff in Beijing this year. In 2009, roughly 70 percent of its expat workforce was laid off due to the financial downturn, with only two or three kept on.

The number increased to 10 last year, accounting for almost 10 percent of the company's entire staff.

"Our aim is to double that percentage in 2011," said Li, a public relations officer for Antal, who did not want his full name to be used.

A senior human resource manager surnamed Lu in the Beijing office of a United States-headquartered advertising agency told METRO that their recruitment of expats has increased in the last two years, with foreigners now accounting for 10 percent of the workforce.

The advertising industry in China still has a lot to learn from Westerners, Lu said.

"Our company always welcomes professional talent," said Lu.

Consultancy companies require fluent English, a formal education, more than two years' working experience and familiarity with the business.

"If they can speak some Chinese, it will be advantage," said Li at Antal international.