Extending our Executive Edge
The ability to cross boundaries and embrace new opportunities is crucial for business growth and innovation. This principle is clearly demonstrated by how PolyU has long recognised the strategic importance of Qianhai, Shenzhen—a fast-growing hub of innovation and enterprise—as a gateway for deepening collaboration between Hong Kong and Mainland China. Through a close partnership with the Qianhai Authority, the University has been actively exploring new frontiers in research, innovation, and knowledge transfer—initiatives that are already yielding a tangible impact across Hong Kong, Shenzhen, and the wider Greater Bay Area (GBA). From establishing joint research centres in disruptive technologies to co-hosting high-level forums on cross-border connectivity, PolyU’s engagement in Qianhai reflects a shared vision of driving economic development and cultivating future-ready leaders in the GBA and beyond.
It is within this dynamic context that the University has recently tasked the Faculty of Business (FB) with establishing the PolyU Institute for Executive Education in Qianhai. Building on the University’s strong foundation of collaboration in the region, the Institute represents a bold step forward in delivering cutting-edge executive education.
Strategic Vision with a Purpose
The launch of the PolyU Institute for Executive Education is a significant move in both the University’s and FB’s mission to shape the next generation of leaders by delivering high-quality executive training programmes. By strategically locating the institute in Qianhai, the institute is ideally poised to tap into the region’s vibrant business ecosystem. This initiative strengthens PolyU’s presence in Mainland China and reflects our commitment to equipping professionals with the skills and mindset needed to thrive in an AI-driven, innovation-led economy. It also underscores our broader goal: to bridge the gap between academic excellence and industry needs.
World-Class Foundations for Executive Excellence
FB enjoys a reputation as a world-class business school thanks to its comprehensive portfolio of rigorous undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, including specialised master’s degrees and research programmes. Many of these programmes are endorsed by professional bodies, demonstrating both that they adhere to rigorous standards of excellence and are committed to continuous improvement. This includes our professional doctorate programmes—the DBA, DBAI (Doctor of Business Artificial Intelligence), DMgt (Doctor of Management), and DFinTech (Doctor of FinTech)—all of which have received such recognition.
Supporting this academic excellence is a vibrant research culture. Our faculty members conduct pioneering and impactful research across disciplines, powered by twelve specialised centres. These include the Centre for Leadership & Innovation, with an emphasis on developing leadership capabilities and strategic thinking; the Digital Transformation Centre, which helps today’s executives navigate digital disruption; and the Centre for Business Technology and Innovations, which conducts cutting-edge research on AI, blockchain, and large language models (LLMs) in business and finance. Complementing these specialist research centres is our Case Consortium, which promotes business education by developing high quality business case studies and technical briefs on the latest business issues and state-of-the-art management practices. This research not only informs our teaching but also drives innovation and thought leadership—ensuring that our executive programmes are grounded in the latest insights and best practices.
Innovative Programmes, Flexible Pathways
To meet the evolving needs of executives and working professionals, the Institute for Executive Education will initially offer executive education for master’s programmes built on a flexible, two-stage model. The first stage, delivered at the Qianhai Institute, focuses on executive education. Students can then opt to apply for credit transfer when they apply for master’s programmes. This structure offers both academic rigour and practical flexibility—empowering learners to balance their studies with professional commitments while gaining cross-border exposure.
Collaboration that Drives Change
At its core, the Institute is designed to be more than a teaching centre—it is a vital hub for collaboration between academia and industry. By partnering with local enterprises, industry leaders, and government bodies, we aim to create impactful programmes that address real-world challenges and drive innovation. These partnerships will ensure that learners are not only grounded in theoretical knowledge but are also equipped with the practical insights and leadership skills needed to navigate in a fast-changing AI-driven economy.
Looking Ahead
As the PolyU Institute for Executive Education continues to grow, so too will its impact. We are excited about the many possibilities that lie ahead. We are actively exploring new avenues for collaboration across the GBA and beyond, expanding opportunities for students, faculty, and industry partners alike. With a strong foundation in place and a clear vision for the future, the Institute is poised to become a leading force in executive education—crossing boundaries, shaping futures, and setting new standards in executive education.
