Director of Research

About the Hong Kong Trade Development Council Established in 1966, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body mandated to promote, assist, and develop Hong Kong’s trade. With 51 offices worldwide, including 13 in mainland China, HKTDC positions Hong Kong as a platform for doing business with China and Asia. It organizes international trade fairs, conferences, business missions, and provides research reports and digital news channels. Mission The HKTDC’s mission is to create opportunities for Hong Kong companies, delivering value by promoting trade in goods and services and connecting the world’s business, particularly SMEs, through Hong Kong’s business platform. Creating and delivering value to its customers Building on Hong Kong’s economic success through global business Maintaining trust, respect and openness in all its relationships Position Summary Reporting to the Directorate, the Director of Research leads and manages the Research Department, driving strategic thinking, market intelligence, and business development for the Hong Kong business community, especially SMEs. Major Responsibilities Lead and manage the Research Department as a strategic think tank, propagator of HKTDC’s mission and vision, and a center of strategic business development and market intelligence. Provide thought leadership, insights, and control to direct and upgrade the quality of HKTDC research services. Represent the Department in external and internal functions, coordinating sponsorships and projects to enhance operations, impact, and image. Position HKTDC Research as the authority in business research on Asia, especially Hong Kong, the Chinese mainland and ASEAN. Monitor developments in Hong Kong and global markets that impact Hong Kong’s trade. Maintain close working relationships with relevant government departments and research institutes. Develop strategies for research themes, priority projects, and advise the team on research methodologies. Ensure timeliness, quality, and relevance of research output, overseeing implementation of research plans, ad hoc projects and regular assignments. Employ artificial intelligence where appropriate to elevate Research’s capability and efficiency. The Candidate The ideal candidate should have the following attributes. Functional Expertise Excellent knowledge of international politics and economics, the Chinese economy and the Hong Kong economy, including industry sectors. Good knowledge of issues relating to international trade, multilateral and bilateral trade relations, laws and regulations. Understanding of digital platforms and social media in disseminating research findings, and adoption of suitable business models for research reports and joint surveys. Professional Experience More than 15 years of relevant experience in reputable institutions, with no less than 8 years in a senior position heading a sizable research team. Ability to provide intellectual leadership in undertaking macro‑economics studies, industry/consumer surveys, and business opportunities in emerging markets. Well respected in the peer group of professional economists and within the Hong Kong business community. Qualifications and Personal Attributes A postgraduate degree in Economics or equivalent. Good judgement and common sense; an open, accessible personal style with high energy and creativity; willing to travel. Good presentation skills and proficiency in English, Cantonese and Putonghua. Remuneration and Benefits The successful candidate will be offered a two‑year contract with prospects for renewal upon expiry. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience, plus an appropriate contract‑end gratuity. Medical benefits and annual leave will be provided. Application Procedure Please complete the application form on our website at . Applicants who do not hear from us within eight weeks after the closing date may assume their applications were unsuccessful. All information provided by applicants will be treated in strict confidence and used only for recruitment purposes. Applicants may be considered for other suitable positions within the Council. Personal data will be destroyed six months after selection is finalized. #J-18808-Ljbffr