EmpowerU is an exciting and fast-growing educational programme that serves migrant domestic workers (MDW) and ethnically diverse (ED) youth in Hong Kong. EmpowerU’s mission is to make high-quality education accessible to everyone.
Our work
Founded in 2018, EmpowerU initially focused on providing education for migrant domestic workers, and in 2020 we expanded our programmes to serve ethnically diverse communities in Hong Kong. We specifically work with community leaders and educators to develop and offer innovative online/in-person educational programmes that supplement what is offered in existing education systems.
The MDW education programme uses a hybrid model that is built upon a robust digital curriculum supplemented with engaging in-person workshops and classes taught by corporate professionals and educators. The digital curriculum blends high-quality recorded video lessons with interactive knowledge checks and activities that reinforce the lesson content. Our approach connects students with the right resources, networks, knowledge, skills, and platforms to amplify their voices and build their own future.
The PowerThru Education Programme for Ethnically Diverse (ED) Youth (“PowerThru” for short) is a community-based youth development and empowerment programme. In PowerThru, young ED professionals and undergraduates serve as mentors and community instructors for ED secondary school students from underserved communities. These instructors, with their experience of growing up in HK within the local education system, and their success in their fields, understand the situation of ED students and work hard to raise students’ expectations of what they can achieve.
II. Job Description
EmpowerU is seeking a Hong Kong-based Executive Director to lead a team of 7+ people with outstanding vision and integrity. The Executive Director will contribute to setting the organization’s strategic direction, effectively engaging with stakeholders, overseeing financial health, HR, fundraising, and managing day-to-day operations.
Scope of Work
The Executive Director reports to the Board of Directors. Core activities anticipated under this role include:
● Strategic Leadership and Vision
● Develop and implement strategic plans aligned with EmpowerU's mission
● Drive organizational growth and impact
● Foster innovation in community-led education and empowerment
● Organizational Management
● Oversee daily operations and programme development
● Lead and develop a high-performing team
● Ensure operational efficiency and effectiveness
● Financial Management
● Oversee budget planning and financial sustainability
● Secure funding through grants and partnerships
● Manage relationships with donors and stakeholders
● Engagement with Key Partners and Stakeholders
● Cultivate and strengthen relationships with external educational and private and public sector partners including local HK schools, universities, government agencies, and local businesses
● Represent EmpowerU in public forums and in the media
● Expand EmpowerU’s influence in the HK education space
III. Additional details
Candidates with the following skills/experience are encouraged to apply:
● 10+ years of experience in education, youth development and/or community engagement and capacity building
● Passion for community empowerment and community-led initiatives
● Proven ability to lead diverse teams
● Proven ability to listen to and incorporate diverse community perspectives in strategy and programming
● Proven track record in programme design and management, including staff management, communicating with funders, government agencies, and community stakeholders
● Experience working with secondary schools in Hong Kong
● Experience creating and managing curricula and educational materials
● Proficiency with online technology
● Capacity to embrace change and ambiguity, and to thrive in a fast-paced environment
● Ability to work on weekends
● Excellent written and verbal communication skills with a proven track record of public speaking
● Proficiency in a language of ED communities in HK (e.g. Urdu, Hindi, Bengali, Bhasa, Tagalog, Nepali, etc.) (preferred, but not required)
● Fluency in both written and spoken English (required)
Employee benefits
● Competitive salary + MPF
● 15+ days of annual leave per year (excluding public holidays)
● Flexible working hours
● In-person and remote working arrangements
● Opportunities for training and professional development
Inclusive Workplace
We value diverse life experiences and welcome people of any race, ethnicity, gender, age, ability, sexual orientation, or religion.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should send a cover letter detailing their interest in and fit for the position and their CV.
