Applications are invited for appointment as Deputy Director (holding the functional title of Head of Innovation Strategy) in the Technology Transfer Office (Ref.: 534418)
HKU is a world-class research-intensive university committed to translating innovative research into tangible societal and economic impact. We foster a dynamic ecosystem where ideas are nurtured, partnerships are built and ventures are launched to benefit communities and advance global technology.
The Role
Reporting to the Vice-President and Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research), the Deputy Director will play a vital role in executing and advancing HKU’s innovation agenda. The appointee will provide executive leadership in patenting, licensing, spin-out creation and intellectual property management. In addition, he/she will be instrumental in operationalizing the strategic direction by integrating University’s innovation resources and executing plans to strengthen and scale the University’s entrepreneurship and commercialization ecosystem.
Key Responsibilities
- Drive the implementation and execution of the University’s innovation, entrepreneurship, and commercialisation strategy, establishing robust operational plans and tracking performance against key metrics;
- Strategic coordination and lead across all innovation and entrepreneurship units under Vice-President and Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research) to ensure alignment with University’ strategic goal and to foster synergy in their activities;
- Collaborate closely with researchers and innovators to create a supportive ecosystem that encourages invention disclosure, protects IP rights, and promotes the commercialisation of research outputs;
- Develop and implement comprehensive policies and procedures to identify, evaluate, and commercialise innovations from the University and its subsidiaries, overseeing the entire process - from invention assessment to licensing and spin-off development - in alignment with University policies;
- Cultivate high-level partnerships with industry, government, and other stakeholders to establish strategic alliances and attract investment opportunities; and
- Proactively promote the University’s technology portfolio to industry leaders, investors, and venture capitalists to facilitate commercialisation and partnership opportunities.
Qualifications and Qualities
- A good bachelor’s degree is required; a higher degree in a relevant field is preferred.
- At least 12 years of post-qualification experience in innovation, commercialization, or entrepreneurship ecosystem development, with a minimum of 8 years in a managerial or leadership capacity.
- Proven ability to design and executive strategic initiative in a complex, research-intensive environment.
- Demonstrated experience in building and managing industry collaborations, particularly with Mainland China and international partners.
- Exceptional leadership, analytical, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to make sound business judgements.
- Outstanding organizational and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders.
- Fluency in both Chinese (including Putonghua) and English.
- Resilient, proactive and capable of thriving under pressure in a results-oriented setting.
What We Offer
The appointment will be made on fixed-term full-time contract for 2 years, to commence as soon as possible, with the possibility of renewal subject to funding availability and satisfactory performance. A highly competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience will be offered, together with contract-end gratuity and University contribution to a retirement benefits scheme totaling up to 15% of basic salary. Other benefits include annual leave and medical benefits. Housing benefits will be provided as applicable.
How to Apply
The University only accepts online applications for the above post. Applicants should apply online and upload an up-to-date C.V. Review of applications will start as soon as possible and continue until March 11, 2026, or until the post is filled, whichever is earlier.
