Director – Marketing & Communications

Company DescriptionAbout Hong Kong Design CentreHong Kong Design Centre (HKDC) was founded in 2001 as a strategic partner of the HKSAR Government in establishing Hong Kong as centre of design excellence in Asia. We are on a public mission to promote wider and strategic use of design and design thinking to foster innovation, create business value and improve societal well-being. We now have an exciting opportunity for a high caliber candidate to join our dynamic team. Please visit our website www. hkdesigncentre. org for information of HKDC.

Job DescriptionReporting to Executive Director, the Director of Marketing and Communications is a key member of the senior leadership team, responsible for shaping and executing the organisation’s integrated communications strategy. The role advances Hong Kong Design Centre’s (HKDC) mission by promoting the value of design in society, enhancing public awareness of the Centre’s work, and deepening engagement with stakeholders across the government, industry, civic sector, and general public. This leadership role oversees brand stewardship, media and public affairs, digital engagement (including social media), stakeholder communications, and the management of communication-related data systems and tools.

It plays a strategic role in advising the Executive Director on public policy positioning and ensures alignment between HKDC’s communications and broader cultural and innovation agendas in Hong Kong. ResponsibilitiesStrategic Communications and Public AffairsLead the development and implementation of HKDC’s overall communications strategy, aligning with the Centre’s mission, government priorities, and sector trends. Shape and amplify the public narrative on design’s impact in culture, society, and innovation. Provide thought leadership and communications support on public affairs and policy-related matters.

Stakeholder and Government EngagementBuild and maintain strong relationships with local and international media, government agencies, industry partners, cultural institutions, and NGOs. Collaborate with senior leadership on strategic stakeholder outreach, positioning HKDC as a trusted voice in the design and innovation ecosystem. Digital and Data-Driven CommunicationsOversee the organisation’s digital presence, including website, social media, and digital campaigns. Manage stakeholder databases, CRM tools, and eDM platforms to ensure data integrity, segmentation, and effective audience engagement. Analyse digital performance data and apply insights to optimise engagement strategies.

Content Leadership and Brand StewardshipEnsure consistency of tone, message, and visual identity across all communication channels. Oversee the development of high-quality written, visual, and multimedia content for public and stakeholder communications. Maintain and enhance HKDC’s brand identity, ensuring it reflects the Centre’s leadership and credibility in the design field. Policy Advisory and Issue ManagementMonitor public discourse and policy developments relevant to design, culture, and creative industries. Prepare briefings, messaging, and position papers as needed, supporting HKDC’s contribution to policy dialogues. Manage sensitive or reputational issues with clarity, discretion, and appropriate stakeholder engagement.

Leadership and Team ManagementLead and mentor the communications, digital, and content teams to achieve excellence and foster innovation. Promote collaboration across departments to ensure communications support HKDC’s programmes, partnerships, and strategic initiatives. Oversee vendor relationships, including media agencies, design studios, and digital consultants. RequirementsUniversity graduate with a minimum of 16 years of relevant experience in marketing, communications, public affairs, or related fields, with at least 5 years in a leadership capacity;Strong understanding of Hong Kong’s public sector landscape, cultural policies, and stakeholder ecosystem. Proven experience managing brand strategy, media relations, digital campaigns, and stakeholder engagement.

Excellent writing and editorial skills in English (and ideally Chinese). Experience working in or with non-profit, cultural, or public-sector organisations preferred. Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and project management skills. Personal AttributesMission-driven, with a passion for promoting design, culture, and innovation. Politically and culturally sensitive; able to communicate with diverse stakeholders across sectors and geographies. Proactive, collaborative, and resilient under pressure. A clear communicator with integrity and diplomacy.