27th September 2023 – (Hong Kong) The Hong Kong government has launched an open recruitment campaign for the position of Chairperson of the Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) starting today. The new term of office for the EOC Chairperson will commence in April 2024. A comprehensive advertisement outlining the requirements and details for potential candidates has been published in newspapers.
Applicants interested in the position must fulfill the following criteria:
(a) Hold permanent residency in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
(b) Possess a solid general education.
(c) Demonstrate a strong commitment to promoting equal opportunities and fostering an inclusive, barrier-free, and harmonious society.
(d) Have a minimum of 15 years of relevant experience in public administration, professional practice, or senior-level management in the private sector. Experience in leading and managing sizeable public or private organizations is advantageous.
(e) Display a clear vision, impeccable integrity, excellent leadership qualities—especially in overseeing a diverse governing board—mature management skills, and proficiency in public relations.
(f) Exhibit a notable track record in public or community service within Hong Kong.
(g) Possess strong language and communication skills, including fluency in both Chinese and English.
All applications, either by mail or email ([email protected]), must be submitted to the Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Bureau by 18th October, 2023. The mailing address is as follows: Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Bureau (Team 5), 12/F, East Wing, Central Government Offices, 2 Tim Mei Avenue, Tamar, Hong Kong.
In accordance with the Sex Discrimination Ordinance, the Chief Executive holds the authority to appoint the EOC Chairperson. A Selection Board, chaired by the Chief Secretary for Administration, will recommend the most suitable candidate for appointment. Other members of the board include Mr. Chan Kin-por, Mr. Frank Chan, the Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs, and the Director of Administration.
The EOC, established under the Sex Discrimination Ordinance, is an independent statutory body entrusted with implementing the Sex Discrimination Ordinance, Disability Discrimination Ordinance, Family Status Discrimination Ordinance, and Race Discrimination Ordinance. The commission’s responsibilities encompass various aspects, including eliminating discrimination, promoting equal opportunities and harmony, combating harassment and vilification, handling complaints, providing conciliation and other forms of assistance to aggrieved parties, and formulating codes of practice in areas such as sex, marital status, pregnancy, breastfeeding, disability, family status, and race.
The EOC Chairperson plays a pivotal role in leading the commission to fulfil its statutory functions and powers under the four anti-discrimination ordinances. Additionally, the Chairperson is responsible for overseeing the administration and management matters of the EOC office.