Director of the Journalism and Media Studies Centre

Applications are invited for appointment as Director of the Journalism and Media Studies Centre (Ref.: 516736), to commence on March 1, 2023 or as soon as possible thereafter, on a three-year fixed-term basis, with the possibility of renewal subject to funding availability and satisfactory performance.

The University of Hong Kong Faculty of Social Sciences

Founded in 1911, The University of Hong Kong (HKU) is committed to the highest international standards of excellence in teaching and research, and has been at the global forefront of academic scholarship for many years. The Faculty of Social Sciences of HKU houses the Journalism and Media Studies Centre (JMSC).

The Journalism and Media Studies Centre

The Journalism and Media Studies Centre has been offering world-class professional journalism education at Asia’s premier university since 1999, and its journalism programmes cover the levels of undergraduate, taught postgraduate, MPhil and PhD programmes. The JMSC takes pride in a faculty of distinguished international journalists and educators who help to equip our students with the abilities they need to become the next generation of leaders in the rapidly changing field of journalism. More information about JMSC can be obtained at https://jmsc.hku.hk .

Position Description

We are seeking a Director who is an accomplished seasoned professional journalist. Experience in media and communication studies would be an advantage. The successful candidate would be hired as a Professor or Principal Professional Practitioner (holding a functional title of Professor of Practice). He/She will report to the Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences.

Candidates should be familiar with breaking news, in-depth reports, and across all platforms, especially digital, and be nimble in a fast-changing media environment. They must be globally minded and visionary, have a demonstrated willingness to experiment with new ways to harness the transformative power of technology, build on the Centre’s existing strengths, and offer ideas for leading the Centre into world excellence. An in-depth and expansive newsroom experience with an internationally recognised media outlet and a theoretical background would be beneficial. Candidates with professional levels of English fluency in speaking and writing, and knowledge of Putonghua, Cantonese or another Asian language would be a bonus. Backgrounds and/or experience in Asia, particularly China, are preferred.

Duties will include

• Setting the overall vision and direction for the Centre
• Working collaboratively across Departmental and Faculty lines
• Advancing scholarship and research in journalism and communication studies
• Elevating the brand recognition of the Centre
• Providing leadership and innovating ideas for recruiting undergraduate and postgraduate students during a time of challenge
• Nurturing and continuing to build on the Centre’s strong existing media partnerships, including expanding the network for undergraduate exchanges and student internships
• Being actively involved in fund-raising and finding new partnerships for the benefit of the students and the Centre
• Helping recruit new scholars and instructors

A highly competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience will be offered, in addition to annual leave and medical benefits. At current rates, salaries tax does not exceed 15% of gross income. The appointment will attract a contract-end gratuity and University contribution to a retirement benefits scheme, totalling up to 15% of basic salary. Housing benefits will be provided as applicable.

The University only accepts online application for the above post. Applicants should apply online and upload (1) an up-to-date CV with contact information of three referees, (2) a cover letter, (3) a statement on teaching philosophy, and (4) an outline of the vision and mission as Director of JMSC. Review of applications will commence as soon as possible and continue until to December 4, 2022 , or until the post is filled, whichever is earlier.

Advertised: Nov 4, 2022 (HK Time)
Applications close: Dec 4, 2022 (HK Time)