DeepSeek CEO Liang Wenfeng trusts hiring ‘humanities graduates’ to lead the next tech revolution | World News

In the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence (AI), where technical prowess and industry experience are often seen as the cornerstones of success, DeepSeek has emerged as a surprising outlier. At the helm of this AI powerhouse is Liang Wenfeng, a 40-year-old entrepreneur whose unconventional leadership style and innovative hiring practices are attracting widespread attention. Unlike traditional tech giants such as OpenAI’s Sam Altman and Meta’s Mark Zuckerberg, who prioritize candidates with extensive technical expertise, Liang is challenging industry norms by placing a premium on creativity, diverse perspectives, and intellectual curiosity.
Liang’s approach to recruitment favors Generation Z, avid readers, and humanities graduates, diverging from the typical preference for candidates with computer science degrees and years of industry experience. His philosophy is rooted in the belief that imaginative thinking and a willingness to learn are more valuable than a lengthy résumé of past roles. This deliberate shift in hiring strategy reflects a broader vision for fostering innovation and long-term growth at DeepSeek, positioning the company as a trailblazer in the AI sector.

DeepSeek CEO Liang Wenfeng prioritises humanities graduates for creative AI solutions

Liang Wenfeng’s leadership style is a stark departure from the structured, expertise-driven management approaches of his Western counterparts. While companies like OpenAI and Meta focus heavily on technical qualifications, Liang believes that creativity and fresh perspectives are the true drivers of innovation in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
During a 2023 interview with Chinese media outlet 36Kr, Liang elaborated on his hiring philosophy, emphasizing that while hiring candidates with relevant experience can yield quick results, it does little to sustain long-term growth and innovation.
“When aiming for rapid results, it makes sense to hire those who already possess the necessary expertise,” Liang stated. “However, for long-term ambitions, experience holds less significance. Core competencies, an inventive mindset, and an unwavering passion for the work are attributes I value above all else.”
Liang’s approach underscores his belief that prior experience in similar roles does not guarantee success in new, evolving challenges. Instead, he prioritizes open-mindedness and a willingness to explore unconventional solutions, which he considers crucial for tackling complex problems in the AI field.

DeepSeek’s Liang Wenfeng says innovation thrives on fresh ideas not experience

One of the most notable aspects of Liang’s hiring strategy is his focus on recruiting humanities graduates and individuals from non-traditional backgrounds. While most AI companies seek candidates with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) degrees, Liang believes that diverse intellectual backgrounds enrich the creative process and foster innovative solutions.
Liang argues that avid readers, critical thinkers, and those with a deep understanding of human behavior and culture bring unique insights that are invaluable in developing AI technologies. This diversity of thought allows DeepSeek to approach problems from multiple angles, leading to more holistic solutions that consider not just technical feasibility but also ethical implications and user experience.
“Bringing in individuals with academic grounding in the humanities infuses the team with diverse perspectives that enrich the creative process,” Liang explained. “Each employee carries a unique set of experiences and insights that contribute to a collaborative and dynamic work environment.”

Liang Wenfeng taps Gen Z talent to drive innovation at DeepSeek

Liang’s preference for hiring Generation Z candidates further highlights his commitment to fostering a culture of innovation at DeepSeek. He believes that younger employees, who may lack extensive industry experience, are often more receptive to unconventional ideas and willing to engage in extensive problem-solving.
Unlike seasoned professionals who might rely on well-established methods, Gen Z workers are more inclined to explore diverse approaches and critically analyze the challenges they encounter. This openness to experimentation allows them to craft bespoke solutions tailored to the unique demands of DeepSeek’s projects.
“Less experienced employees tend to be more receptive to unconventional ideas,” Liang noted. “They are willing to invest time in exploring diverse approaches, which enables them to create solutions that are both innovative and effective.”

A work environment that champions creativity and autonomy

At DeepSeek, Liang has cultivated a work environment that prioritizes continuous experimentation and intellectual exploration. He believes that rigid oversight is unnecessary when employees are encouraged to chart their own course and bring fresh ideas to the table.
This emphasis on autonomy and creative freedom not only boosts employee morale but also leads to breakthrough innovations that might not emerge in more traditional, hierarchical organizations. Liang’s leadership style fosters a collaborative culture where team members feel empowered to take risks and push the boundaries of what’s possible in AI development.
“By fostering an environment that champions continuous experimentation and intellectual exploration, we are cultivating a culture in which innovation flourishes without the restrictions imposed by traditional paradigms,” Liang said.