Reborn in 2000: I'm the Boss's Driver

Monday, April 10th.

The atmosphere in the provincial government office was somewhat subtle. Occasionally, people would whisper in the corridor, but upon seeing Lin Fan approach, they would immediately disperse, their eyes filled with complex emotions—envy, awe, and scrutiny.

Just last Friday, the provincial party committee issued its appointment and removal documents.

Comrade Zhou Wenyuan has been appointed Deputy Secretary of the Provincial Party Committee, while continuing to serve as Executive Vice Governor. This means that he will not only continue to oversee government work such as industry, transportation, and state-owned assets, but will also assume leadership responsibilities in important areas such as Party affairs and ideology within the Provincial Party Committee. Reaching this position at the age of forty-five is unique within the province.

Comrade Chu Yunshan, former Deputy Secretary of the Provincial Party Committee, succeeded Comrade Chen Jianguo, who was retiring due to age, as Secretary of the Provincial Party Committee. Secretary Chen Jianguo, however, was allowed to retire early from his leadership position with the approval of the Central Committee due to his leadership responsibility in the medical corruption case, particularly his negligence in the education and management of his relatives, while retaining his benefits.

As for Lin Fan, he was appointed as the Deputy Director of the General Office of the Provincial Government, at the deputy ministerial level, while still concurrently serving as the Director of the Second Secretariat, continuing to be responsible for Zhou Wenyuan's secretarial work. The division of labor for the Deputy Director of the General Office mainly involves assisting the Deputy Secretary-General in liaising with some relatively peripheral departments—archives, confidential matters, security, petitions and stability maintenance, etc.

Anyone with eyes to see can see that this is a typical case of "high-ranking officials being given low-level positions, recognizing their merits with their rank and benefits, while continuing to train them in core roles." A 34-year-old deputy director-general is already a rare find in provincial government agencies, let alone holding the powerful position of director of the Second Secretariat.

Lin Fan pushed open the door to his office. The layout was the same, but there was a new line of small print next to the sign on the door: Deputy Director of the General Office.

Xiao Liu from the secretariat had already tidied up the office, with documents neatly categorized and stacked, and freshly brewed tea steaming hot.

"Director Lin, this is today's schedule, and also some documents that need your approval." Xiao Liu handed over the folder, his attitude more respectful than usual.

Lin Fan took the document and quickly scanned it. At 10:00 AM, there was the General Office Director's routine meeting; at 2:00 PM, he would accompany Secretary Zhou (who he would now address as Deputy Secretary Zhou) on a research trip to the Provincial Transportation Investment Group; and at 6:00 PM, there was a coordination meeting on petition work—his first meeting in his newly assigned area of ​​responsibility.

"Any urgent matters from the Leading Group Office for Medical System Reform this morning?" Lin Fan asked. Although his position had been changed, he remained the director of the Leading Group Office, and he was still in charge of this work.

"The Health Department sent weekly reports on the progress of medical reform in each city, as well as two suggestions on handling complaints about centralized drug procurement," Xiao Liu replied.

"Put it on my desk, I'll look at it when I have time."

The atmosphere at the 10 a.m. general office meeting was slightly different. Several deputy directors looked at Lin Fan with a more ambiguous, scrutinizing gaze. General Office Director Lao Yang, who chaired the meeting, began with a smile, "First of all, congratulations to Comrade Lin Fan on his promotion to deputy director of the General Office. Director Lin is young and promising, a breath of fresh air in the General Office. Everyone should give him their full support in the future."

Sparse applause rang out. Lin Fan calmly nodded in thanks: "Thank you, Director, thank you everyone. I've just taken on this new assignment, and there's a lot I'm not familiar with yet. I'll need to learn from you experienced leaders in the future."

He spoke modestly, but no one dared to treat him as a newcomer. Everyone knew he was Zhou Wenyuan's most trusted confidant, and his significant contribution to the medical anti-corruption case meant promotion was only a matter of time. Moreover, the fact that he remained firmly in his position as head of the Second Secretariat indicated that he was still a member of the inner circle.

After the meeting, Lao Yang made a point of keeping Lin Fan behind.

"Director Lin, handling petitions is both important and troublesome," Old Yang said frankly. "You've just taken over, so get familiar with the situation first and take it easy. If you encounter any difficulties, feel free to contact me."

"Thank you, Director. I will be careful."

Back in his office, Lin Fan first dealt with a few urgent documents, then took out his phone and dialed Zhou Wenyuan's number.

The call was answered quickly.

"Secretary Zhou, this is Lin Fan. The Transportation Group has almost finished preparing for this afternoon's research trip, and I've already sent the materials to your email. Also, Secretary Chu's office just called to ask if you're free tomorrow morning; he'd like to discuss the handover of work at the Provincial Party Committee with you."

Zhou Wenyuan's steady voice came from the other end of the phone: "Okay, I understand. Xiao Fan, how's the new position?"

"I'm still getting used to it. The petitioning work is more complicated than I imagined."

"Complexity is just what's needed," Zhou Wenyuan said. "Petitions are a form of public service that comes directly to people's doorsteps, allowing us to hear their voices most directly. Do a good job; it will be excellent training for you. Remember, the key to handling petitions lies in eight words: act in accordance with the law and regulations, and put yourself in their shoes."

"I've got it."

"Also," Zhou Wenyuan paused, "Secretary Chu has arranged a simple dinner for us at the cafeteria tonight. You should come too."

"OK."

The afternoon's research went smoothly. The Transportation Group is a key state-owned enterprise in the province, and its leadership had just been reshuffled. The newly appointed chairman is a former subordinate of Zhou Wenyuan, and he gave a particularly enthusiastic report.

Zhou Wenyuan listened attentively, asking questions from time to time. When asked about the difficulties the group was facing in its reforms, the chairman poured out his grievances: "Secretary Zhou, financing costs are high now, and project approval cycles are long. We are under a lot of pressure."

"It's normal to feel pressure," Zhou Wenyuan said. "But we must recognize that the difficulties are temporary, while development is a long-term endeavor. The provincial Party committee and government's determination to support the reform of state-owned enterprises will not change. What you need to do is to work hard to improve your internal management and increase efficiency. In particular, there must be absolutely no problems with safety in production."

"Yes, yes, I will definitely keep your instructions in mind."

After the research trip concluded, Zhou Wenyuan closed his eyes to rest on the way back. Lin Fan sat in the passenger seat, organizing the research notes.

Six o'clock in the evening, in the small restaurant on the third floor of the Provincial Party Committee canteen.

Chu Yunshan, Zhou Wenyuan, the newly appointed Provincial Party Committee Secretary-General Li Gang, and Lin Fan sat around a table. The meal was simple: eight dishes and a soup, with no alcohol.

"Wenyuan, we'll be working together for a long time, so we need to communicate more about our work." Chu Yunshan's hair was gray, but he was in good spirits. He had served as deputy secretary for eight years and knew the provincial party committee's work inside and out.

"Secretary Chu, rest assured, I will fully cooperate with your work." Zhou Wenyuan said respectfully.

"It's not so much cooperation as it is working together to contribute to the development of the entire province." Chu Yunshan waved his hand and looked at Lin Fan. "I've heard about Lin's outstanding performance in the medical anti-corruption case. It's rare to find a young cadre with such vigor and principles."

Lin Fan quickly bowed and said, "Secretary Chu, you flatter me. I was just doing my duty under Secretary Zhou's leadership."

"Don't be arrogant or impatient, good." Chu Yunshan nodded. "Deputy Director of the General Office, in charge of petitions and complaints, this arrangement is good. Petitions and complaints work is the best way to train people and also the fastest way to understand people's hardships. Do a good job, the responsibilities will be heavier in the future."

"Thank you for your encouragement, Secretary Chu."

After chatting about work for a while, the topic turned to Chen Jianguo.

Chu Yunshan sighed: "Comrade Jianguo's situation this time... is a pity. He is a veteran and has made contributions to the province. But with his relatives having problems, he, as the top leader, does bear responsibility. The Central Committee's decision to let him retire early is also a way of showing him care."

Zhou Wenyuan nodded: "I saw Secretary Chen off when he left. He was in good condition and said that after retiring, he plans to go back to his hometown for a while, grow flowers, and practice calligraphy."

"That's good," Chu Yunshan said. "You've worked hard your whole life, it's time for you to rest. Wenyuan, you're forty-five, the prime of your career. The responsibility of being the deputy secretary of the provincial party committee is heavy, especially now, with the medical corruption case just concluded, many cadres still have reservations, and there are still dissenting voices in society. You'll need to put in a lot of effort to stabilize public sentiment and advance the work."

"I see."

The meal was eaten quickly, and we finished at 7:30.

On the way back, Zhou Wenyuan asked Lin Fan, "Did you understand what Secretary Chu meant?"

Lin Fan thought for a moment: "Stability is paramount. With the anti-corruption campaign in the medical field coming to an end, we should now focus our efforts on economic development and improving people's livelihoods."

"That's right," Zhou Wenyuan said. "The fight against corruption is to clean up the political environment, and the ultimate goal is still development. But the cases involve a wide range of people and have dealt with a large number of people. Now many cadres are afraid to do things and unwilling to take responsibility, afraid of making mistakes and being investigated. If this mentality is not reversed, it will be difficult to carry out the work in the second half of the year."

"Then we..."

"I'll be the main speaker at a provincial-level conference of leading cadres next week," Zhou Wenyuan said, already having a plan. "The theme will be 'Upholding the bottom line, daring to take responsibility, and promoting development.' We need to reassure the cadres that as long as they don't cross the red line, and as long as they are genuinely dedicated to public service and work diligently, the organization will support them. At the same time, we must also draw clear lines; those who are lazy, procrastinating, or inactive in their duties will also be dealt with."

Lin Fan quickly took notes: "Okay, I'll start preparing my speech right away."

"No rush," Zhou Wenyuan said. "First, sort out your current work. Especially the petitions and complaints; recently, due to the anti-corruption campaign in the medical field, the number of related petitions has definitely fluctuated. You need to understand the situation clearly, resolve what needs to be resolved, and explain what needs to be explained. Don't let small problems become big problems."

"clear."

For the next few days, Lin Fan was extremely busy.

During the day, he handles the daily affairs of the General Office and attends various meetings; at night, he studies backlogged petitions and sorts out key and difficult issues; in his spare time, he also follows up on the progress of medical reform and prepares Zhou Wenyuan's speech.

The directors of the newly assigned departments were all veterans, and initially they were somewhat hesitant about this young deputy director. However, after several work meetings, they discovered that although Lin Fan was young, he was steady in his work, had a clear mind, never pretended to know what he didn't, and was decisive when necessary. Gradually, they put away their contempt for him.

On April 15, a meeting was held to summarize the phased progress of the provincial medical system reform and to further promote its implementation.

Zhou Wenyuan attended and delivered a speech in his capacity as Deputy Secretary of the Provincial Party Committee and Executive Vice Governor. This was his first public appearance at a provincial-level conference for the medical and health system since assuming his new post.

"...The purpose of reform is to break with the old and establish the new, to build a fairer, more efficient, and more sustainable healthcare service system. In the early stages, with the determination of a warrior cutting off his own arm, we eliminated a number of bad apples and rectified the industry's atmosphere. But this is only the first step. Next, we will focus on 'establishing'—establishing rules, establishing systems, and establishing new practices."

The speech was drafted by Lin Fan, along with the Second Secretariat and the Medical Reform Office, after several sleepless nights. It not only reflected the spirit of the Central Committee but also combined it with the actual situation in the province, and also reflected Zhou Wenyuan's consistent pragmatic style.

Below the stage, health bureau chiefs and hospital directors from various regions listened attentively. Many knew that this young deputy provincial party secretary, having gained considerable prestige after this campaign, was poised for a medical reform that could only succeed, not fail.

After the meeting, Lin Fan was surrounded by several people.

"Director Lin, there's a problem with the upgrade of our city's medical insurance settlement system..."

"Director Lin, regarding the standards for personnel subsidies in primary healthcare centers..."

"Director Lin..."

Lin Fan patiently responded to each question, answering those he could on the spot and recording those that required further study. He knew that these people were not only looking for him, but also valuing Zhou Wenyuan behind him.

I was busy until 3 p.m. before I finally had a chance to eat a few bites of my boxed lunch. Just as I finished eating, my phone rang. It was Wang Xin.

"Brother Fan, are you free tonight? Chu Yunfan is back from Beijing, how about we get together to celebrate?"

Lin Fan glanced at the schedule: "Okay, same place as always. Keep it simple, I need to be back in the office before eight."

7 PM, a private restaurant.

Wang Xin and Chu Yunfan were already there. Chu Yunfan's skin was a bit tanned, but he was in good spirits.

"Brother Fan, congratulations on your promotion!" Chu Yunfan smiled and raised his teacup. "I'll toast you with tea instead of wine."

"What promotion? It's just a job adjustment." Lin Fan clinked glasses with him. "How are the projects in Beijing going?"

"It's almost done; a framework agreement has been signed," Chu Yunfan said. "However, I heard some rumors during my trip to Beijing."

"Oh? What's the rumor?"

Chu Yunfan lowered his voice: "Although Secretary Chen's early retirement appears to be a smooth transition, Beijing has given high praise to the intensity of our province's anti-corruption efforts in the medical field. I heard that some leaders mentioned Secretary Zhou's name in an internal meeting, saying that he is 'bold in tackling tough issues and takes responsibility effectively.'"

Wang Xin interjected, "Does that mean Secretary Zhou can still be promoted in the future?"

"That's hard to say," Chu Yunfan said. "However, Brother Fan, following Secretary Zhou this time has also boosted your career. A 34-year-old deputy director-general, and in a core department at that, has a very promising future."

Lin Fan waved his hand: "Forget about the future, doing the job well is what matters. You two, how's the company integration going?"

"The organizational structure is set up, and it's called 'Dingyun Industrial Group'," Wang Xin said. "I'm the chairman, and Yunfan is the general manager. We've completed the first round of the employee stock ownership plan, and the core staff have all become shareholders, so they're very motivated. The charitable foundation has also been approved, and the first donation is planned to be invested in children with serious illnesses in mountainous counties."

"Okay." Lin Fan nodded. "When a company grows big, it needs to have a sense of social responsibility. You need to make money, but you can't just focus on making money. Yunfan, your uncle has been promoted to provincial party secretary this time, so you must keep a low profile and act in accordance with regulations."

"Brother Fan, don't worry," Chu Yunfan said earnestly. "After this medical corruption case, we've learned a valuable lesson. Without a healthy social environment, no matter how big a company grows, it's just a castle in the air. We will definitely do things honestly and earn money ethically."

The three chatted until eight o'clock, when Lin Fan got up to say goodbye.

Back in the office, I still had a few documents to approve. By the time I finished, it was almost ten o'clock.

He walked to the window and looked at the provincial government compound in the night. Many windows in the office building were still lit, and there were many people working overtime like him.

My phone vibrated; it was a message from Zhou Wenyuan: "The speech was well received; thank you for your hard work. Tomorrow morning at nine o'clock, come with me to the petition office to receive the public."

Lin Fan replied, "Okay, Secretary Zhou."

He put down his phone and sat back down at his desk.

My job title has changed, and my rank has been promoted, but my work pace remains the same, and the responsibility and pressure have increased.

The Petition Bureau… He flipped through the newly received petition bulletin. Recently, due to the anti-corruption campaign in the medical field, complaints involving hospital disputes and drug issues have increased significantly. Accompanying Zhou Wenyuan to receive petitioners tomorrow is a good opportunity to understand the true situation, and also a test.

His job is not just to record and communicate, but also to learn to analyze, judge, and even offer suggestions when appropriate.

This path is a series of steps, and each step must be taken firmly.

The major corruption case in the medical field has come to an end, but his new journey has just begun.