Xi names low-key outsider as personal secretary
Ding Xuexiang is appointed personal secretary to the president, a powerful position that is often a gateway to higher office
A rising political star known for his ability to keep a low profile while carrying out the will of his boss has been appointed President Xi Jinping's personal secretary.
Ding Xuexiang, who was seen accompanying Xi during his three-day trip to Hubei this week, has been formally appointed director of the General Secretary's Office, as revealed by Hubei Daily yesterday.
The tour was Ding's first public appearance since being appointed deputy director of the General Office of the Communist Party's Central Committee in mid-May. Much like former president Hu Jintao's secretary, Chen Shiju , Ding is expected to serve the president and the Central Committee concurrently.
A source close to Ding said that he is known for quickly turning his bosses' public remarks on trips into official notices without referring to notes.
"Ding boasts some remarkable traits, ranging from perfect writing skills to a famously strong memory," the source said.
Ding boasts some remarkable traits, ranging from perfect writing skills to a famously strong memory
Ding comes from an unremarkable family in Jiangsu province and has no special political connections in Beijing. Along with his natural low-key personality, that could be a key advantage in his new role.