Professor and Head of Department of Social Work and Social Administration

Professor and Head of Department of Social Work and Social Administration (Ref.: 534142)

Applications are invited for the appointment as Professor and Head of the Department of Social Work and Social Administration (SWSA), Faculty of Social Sciences. This is an exceptional leadership opportunity for a distinguished scholar to shape the future of one of Asia’s most respected social work departments. We seek an academic leader with a proven record of excellence in research, teaching, knowledge exchange, and managerial competence and a strong commitment to the Department’s and University’s missions and services and community engagement. The successful candidate will drive the Department’s strategic vision, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, and elevate its global impact. Candidates should hold a PhD in Social Work or a relevant field and possess the stature of a Full Professor at a research-intensive institution. The most highly qualified applicants may be considered for the appointment as Chair Professor.

The University of Hong Kong

Founded in 1911, the University of Hong Kong has attained its pre-eminence as a research-led comprehensive university by upholding the highest international standards of excellence in its research, 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 recognized as the 4th most international university in 2025.

Department of Social Work and Social Administration

The Department of Social Work and Social Administration (SWSA), Hong Kong’s first social work training institute, has over 75 years of history and is ranked 11th globally and 1st locally in the 2025 QS Rankings for Social Policy & Administration. SWSA has five research clusters carrying out cutting-edge research in Evidence-based Clinical Social Work Practice, Mental Health, Population Studies, Ageing, and Arts Therapy. All these are geared towards the promotion of wellbeing for all. We have a competent team of professoriate staff, teachers, and researchers working on a wide range of social work issues for different target groups. More information about the Department can be obtained at https://www.socialwork.hku.hk/.

Position Description

The Department of Social Work and Social Administration seeks distinguished scholar to provide visionary leadership and strategic direction, ensuring SWSA’s continued alignment with the academic missions of HKU and its tradition of excellence. The successful candidate will help the Department to uphold the highest international standards of research and teaching, foster interdisciplinary collaboration and community engagement, optimize the deployment of departmental resources, cultivate an inclusive and vibrant intellectual community and expand the Department’s international collaborations and networks.

Qualifications and Qualities

• PhD in Social Work or a relevant field and stature equivalent to full or chair professor rank.
• Distinguished record of academic achievements and international recognition in research, scholarship, and teaching.
• Proven experience in leadership and university-level administration.
• Strong international network and demonstrated ability to secure research funding.
• Effective interpersonal communication skills and a high standard of personal integrity.
• Commitment to representing the interests of the discipline and the Department in the broader community.
• Possession of a recognized social worker qualification, along with established connections within local and international professional communities, is considered advantageous.

Compensation and Benefits

A highly competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience will be offered, together with contract-end gratuity and University contribution to a retirement benefits scheme at 15% of basic salary. Other benefits include annual leave and professional leave, medical benefits, and free access to on-campus gyms and libraries. Housing benefits will be provided as applicable.

Application

The University only accepts online applications for the above post. To ensure full consideration applicants should apply online and uploads: (1) a CV with publication list, (2) a cover letter, (3) an outline of strategic vision as the Head of the Department of Social Work and Social Administration. Review of applications will begin as soon as possible and continue until April 30, 2026 or until the post is filled, whichever is earlier.