Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation:

This situation demonstrates theAchievement vs. Ascriptioncultural dimension from Trompenaars' model:

Achievement cultures(like the U.S.): Status is based onmerit, accomplishments, and capability.

Ascription cultures(like many in Asia): Status is derived fromage, seniority, or social connections.

The local employees in Hong Kong respectsenior hierarchy and established authority, and resist change coming from ayounger or less established figure, indicative of anascription-based culture.

GPHR Study Guide Extract – Workforce Relations and Risk Management / Cross-Cultural Models:

“In ascription-oriented cultures, people gain status through age, social class, or connections. It can be difficult for younger or newly arrived expatriates to influence teams where authority is tied to tenure or title rather than capability.”

This mismatch creates resistance and can undermine project success without cultural sensitivity.