Applications are invited for appointment as Deputy Chief Operating Officer (at the rank of Assistant Registrar) in the Research, Innovation, Strategic Partnerships and Entrepreneurship (RISE) (Ref.: 537525)
The University of Hong Kong (HKU) is a world-class research-intensive university committed to translating innovative research into tangible societal and economic impact. We foster a dynamic ecosystem in which ideas are nurtured, partnerships are built and ventures are launched to benefit communities and advance technology.
Supported by InnoHK funding, HKU operates a total of eight InnoHK Centres. These R&D Centres are led by HKU professors and work closely with international collaborators. HKU Innovation Holdings Limited (HKUInno), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the University, provides governance oversight, commercialisation and administrative support, and operational guidelines to the R&D Centres, which are established as independent companies under the University.
The Role
The appointee will report to the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of HKUInno, with strategic oversight from the Vice-President (Research). The appointee will support the COO in leading corporate governance, commercialisation, and strategic administrative support for HKU's InnoHK Centres and where appropriate, other innovation subsidiaries. He/ She will serve as the primary liaison between RISE and HKUInno, facilitating coordination, communication, and collaboration between the two parties, and ensuring that governance and commercialisation support to R&D Centres are aligned with RISE’s strategic objectives.
This pivotal role will support HKU’s position as a leading research university and its growing impact in technology commercialisation and industry collaboration. By strengthening governance, improving operational efficiency and optimizing resource deployment, the appointee will contribute to advancing HKU’s research ambitions and delivering high-quality translational research outcomes.
Responsibilities
- Work closely with the COO, senior leaders of the R&D Centres and relevant HKU departments to develop and implement HKUInno’s operational and corporate strategy in alignment with HKU’s research and innovation objectives.
- Lead and oversee day-to-day operations, including finance, human resources, legal, company secretarial services, facilities management, procurement and office administration; and oversee the operational support provided to the R&D Centres’ commercialisation activities.
- Provide strategic input and oversight on legal, regulatory and compliance matters affecting HKUInno and R&D Centres, including contractual frameworks, intellectual property arrangements, conflict-of-interest management and other commercialisation-related matters, in coordination with relevant HKU offices and external advisers.
- Advise and support InnoHK R&D Centres in formulating commercialisation strategies, fostering key partnerships and developing new ventures that translate cutting-edge research into real-world impact.
- Represent HKU in engagements with the Innovation and Technology Commission (ITC) and other key stakeholders.
- Lead key strategic initiatives, including cross-Centre collaboration, and manage the establishment or closure of Centres as such needs arise.
- Strengthen corporate governance, compliance and reporting frameworks across HKUInno and its subsidiary companies, ensuring alignment with ITC, HKU and other applicable regulatory requirements.
- Drive operational excellence across HKUInno and its subsidiary companies by optimising workflows, systems and processes, and promote a culture of accountability, efficiency and continuous improvement.
Requirements
- A recognised university degree in business administration, finance, management or a related discipline; a postgraduate and/or professional qualification such as CPA, ACCA or MBA is highly desirable. Training or experience in technology transfer, intellectual property management, business development or commercialisation will be strongly preferred.
- A demonstrated track record in driving research impact, knowledge exchange or the translation of research into practical applications will be an advantage.
- At least 10 years of relevant experience in senior operational, corporate management or general management roles, preferably within a university or research and innovation institution.
- Demonstrated ability to lead corporate functions, including finance, human resources, legal, company secretarial services and procurement, and to drive operational improvement in a matrix or multi-subsidiary environment.
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving and decision-making skills, with the ability to translate strategic direction into clear operational plans and measurable outcomes.
- Outstanding communication, interpersonal and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to work effectively with senior academics, researchers, industry partners and government bodies.
- High integrity, sound judgement and the ability to handle sensitive and confidential matters with discretion.
- Excellent command of written and spoken English and Chinese, including Putonghua.
What We Offer
A highly competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience will be offered, in addition to annual leave and medical benefits. The appointment will commence as soon as possible on a two-year fixed-term basis with contract-end gratuity and University contribution to a retirement benefits scheme, totalling up to 15% of basic salary, with the possibility of renewal subject to funding availability and satisfactory performance. 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 from October 22, 2026 and continue until November 6, 2026, or until the post is filled, whichever is earlier.
