Educational Background
- MSc in Facility Management, PolyU
- MSc in Integrated Project Delivery, HKU
Industry Sector
Construction
Career/Job Position
- China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC)
- SAMA Construction Company Consortium
Key Professional Achievements
As a Project Management Manager and BIM Specialist with 24 years of construction experience, my key achievement is leading the digital transformation of major construction projects in Hong Kong, Macau, and overseas. I have spearheaded the implementation of Building Information Modelling (BIM) from strategy to execution, establishing collaborative digital workflows that significantly enhanced design coordination, clash detection, and project delivery for complex high-rise and mixed-use developments.
I successfully managed multi-disciplinary teams and fostered integrated project delivery (IPD), reducing rework and improving cost and schedule certainty. My expertise was further demonstrated by attaining top-tier professional chartership (CEng) in Ireland, and UK, and credentials like HK CIC-accredited BIM Manager. I actively contribute to the industry by mentoring professionals in BIM adoption and have been invited to participate on digital construction, aligning my practical leadership with the DIREC programme's focus on advancing global real estate and construction practices.
Reasons for Pursuing a Doctorate Programme
My 24-year career has positioned me at the intersection of project leadership and digital innovation in construction. I now seek to transition from applying best practices to generating new knowledge that addresses critical industry challenges. The DIREC programme is uniquely aligned with this goal, offering a rigorous, research-driven platform focused on the international landscape.
I aim to investigate the systemic integration of advanced digital technologies, particularly next-generation BIM and data analytics - with sustainable project delivery models across different regulatory and market environments. PolyU's renowned Department of Building and Real Estate provides the ideal scholarly environment for this inquiry. By undertaking this doctorate, I will develop theoretical depth and methodological expertise to contribute original insights, ultimately bridging the gap between academic research and professional practice to shape the future of the global construction industry.
Why do you choose PolyU DIREC Programme
I choose the PolyU DIREC programme for its unparalleled alignment with my professional trajectory and intellectual ambitions. As an industry practitioner based in Hong Kong, PolyU's world-class reputation and its Department of Building and Real Estate's seminal research in construction digitalisation and international project management offer the ideal academic anchor. The DIREC programme's specific focus on the global real estate and construction nexus perfectly matches my need to contextualize my Hong Kong and international experience within a robust theoretical framework.
The programme’s professional doctorate structure is critical, allowing me to tackle industry-centric, applied research without disconnecting from professional practice. I am particularly drawn to the opportunity for rigorous investigation under the supervision of the Department's esteemed faculty, whose expertise in BIM, sustainable development, and international construction directly corresponds to my research interests. Choosing DIREC represents a strategic step to leverage PolyU's academic excellence and networks to transform my practical expertise into substantive scholarly contribution.
Outcomes/Expectations from Studying DIREC Programme
My primary expectation is to develop the advanced scholarly capability to generate original, impactful research that addresses real-world industry challenges. Through the DIREC programme, I aim to produce a doctoral thesis that provides a novel framework for integrating digital project delivery with sustainable, international construction practices, contributing directly to the industry's body of knowledge.
I expect to emerge as a more critical and strategic thinker, equipped with robust research methodologies to analyse complex global industry problems. Furthermore, I anticipate expanding my professional network within PolyU's academic community and international cohort, fostering collaborations that bridge theory and practice. Ultimately, I expect this doctorate to credential and empower me as a thought leader, enabling me to guide policy, influence industry standards, and mentor the next generation of professionals, thereby elevating the technological and strategic maturity of the construction sector.
Advice for Prospective Candidates
Pursue this doctorate not just as an academic credential, but as a disciplined journey to solve a significant, real-world challenge you are passionate about. My key advice is to rigorously align your research proposal with both your deepest professional expertise and the specific research strengths of the Department's faculty. This synergy is crucial for impactful work.
Begin with a clear, focused research question that addresses a genuine gap in industry practice or knowledge. Proactively engage with potential supervisors early to refine your direction. Be prepared for a demanding but rewarding integration of professional work and scholarly rigor; exceptional time management and resilience are non-negotiable.
Finally, approach the programme as a platform for contribution, not just consumption. Come ready to challenge assumptions, engage globally, and leverage PolyU's network to transform your practical insights into value that advances our industry.
