Job Description

Chief Information Officer & University Librarian

The University

Founded in 1911, the University of Hong Kong has attained its pre-eminence as a research-led comprehensive university through upholding the highest international standards of excellence in its research pursuits, scholarship, teaching and learning, and service to the community. The University is consistently ranked amongst the world’s top universities: 11th in QS World University Rankings 2026, 1st in the QS Asia University Rankings 2026, 33rd in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, and is recognised as the 4th most international university in 2025.

Home to ten disciplinary Faculties (Architecture, Arts, Business and Economics, Dentistry, Education, Engineering, Law, Medicine, Science, and Social Sciences), the University is committed to fostering interdisciplinary exchange with an outlook for transformative breakthroughs, innovations and global impact. There are 42,330 undergraduate and postgraduate students from 97 countries, and more than 9,600 academic, academic-related and administrative staff. The University has embarked on a number of ambitious infrastructure and facilities projects required for future expansion.

The Position

Reporting to the Executive Vice-President (Administration and Finance) and the Senate’s Library Committee chaired by the Provost and Deputy Vice-Chancellor, and supported by senior deputies in the respective areas, the CIO & Librarian will provide strategic oversight and direction of the University’s information services. Serving as the Head of the two principal service units - Information Technology Services (ITS) and University Libraries system, which includes a Main Library and dentistry, education, law, music, medicine and oriental studies branch libraries, the successful candidate will maximize synergy between these units to deliver an exceptional and client-focused IT and Library experience for students, faculty and staff. The appointment is for a five-year term, subject to renewal and the position carries the status of University Officer.

Key responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Provide strategic leadership aligning with the University’s strategic plan for the information technology (IT) infrastructure, digital transformation towards a smart campus, and future-ready library systems;
• Oversee the integration of technology and library resources to proactively support teaching & learning, research and administrative operations;
• Develop and implement innovative IT policies, cybersecurity measures, and data management strategies;
• Drive the implementation and integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies across the University in partnership with other units;
• Lead the University Libraries in expanding digital collections, research support, and open-access initiatives;
• Foster collaboration through consultations with academic departments, IT teams, and library staff to support cutting-edge scholarship and student success;
• Manage budgets, grants and partnerships to advance the University’s digital and information ecosystem over the long term;
• Oversee the development and provision of data centre and high-performance computing.

Qualifications & Experience of the Person:

• An advanced degree in Information Science, Computer Science or a related field, and a degree in Library Science is an added advantage;
• Proven, successful track record of strategic leadership in complex organizations;
• Demonstrated deep appreciation and insight of higher education IT, library services, and academic administration;
• Strong knowledge of emerging technologies (especially AI tools), digital libraries, cybersecurity, and data governance;
• Deep understanding of the transformative possibilities of information and technology in a 21st century educational institution as well as a strong respect for the traditional roles of the library and academic computing;
• A track record of large-scale change and project management, including deploying modern technologies and transforming technology infrastructures in higher education environments;
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse leaders, communicate visions and strategies across all levels, and build consensus around key initiatives and projects, grounded in a solid understanding of academic and administrative requirements;
• Proven effectiveness in managing and optimizing resources, business acumen, team-building skills and a customer-service orientation;
• Excellent communication skills and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in higher education.

Terms and Benefits

The appointment will commence as soon as possible on a 5-year fixed-term full-time basis, with the possibility of renewal subject to satisfactory performance. HKU offers a highly competitive salary, contract-end gratuity, retirement benefits, annual leave, medical and housing benefits (where applicable).

Nomination, Expression of Interest and Application

Nominations, expression of interest and applications should be directed to TT Ho of Korn Ferry (HK) Limited, 15/F, St George's Building, 2 Ice House Street, Central, Hong Kong or by e-mail to HKU-CIO@kornferry.com Review of nominations and applications will begin now, and will continue until the post is filled. The University is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to equality, ethics, inclusivity, diversity and transparency. For enquiries, please call TT Ho on (852) 2971 2731.