Professor Richard Leung Tim-chiu is a distinguished finance leader whose illustrious career has been guided by unwavering dedication, a pioneering spirit, and a firm belief in lifelong learning. He has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to education.

Professor Leung has devoted more than three decades to the finance industry, holding senior leadership roles at some of the world’s most prestigious finance institutions. He was Wealth Management CEO China of UBS AG, Country Head of China of DBS Bank, and Asia Region Head of HSBC Bank USA. In these roles, he combined sharp market insight with outstanding entrepreneurial vision to expand business frontiers, nurture talent, and deliver exceptional performance.

His contributions to the China market are particularly noteworthy. He recognised its immense potential early on. At the height of his career, he made the deliberate decision of moving to the Chinese Mainland and embrace the challenge of navigating its dynamic regulatory environment and evolving business practices. This commitment has allowed him to accumulate extensive practical experience and keen insight, contributing to the growth of China’s financial sector. With his profound knowledge of the China market, he has been likened to an ever-unfolding book.

Equally devoted to public service and education, Professor Leung has a strong and lasting connection with PolyU. From 2016 to 2024, he was a member of the PolyU Council. During his eight-year tenure, he served as Investment Committee Chairman, EIF Sub-committee Chairman, and Finance Committee Member, where he applied his expertise and strategic vision to strengthen the University’s financial sustainability. He continues to support PolyU’s development as a Court Member, Professor of Practice (Finance), and International Advisory Committee Member of the Research Institute for Future Food.

Inspired by the generous support he received for his education early in life, Professor Leung is dedicated to giving back to society. He empathises with underprivileged youth and has been a long-term supporter of organisations like Youth Outreach and China Care Fund. He devotes substantial time and resources to help youth from grassroots backgrounds, university students, and budding entrepreneurs expand their horizons and realise their potential.

Open-minded and intellectually curious, Professor Leung is a Fintech enthusiast, mentor and investor. He also serves as a consultant for various organisations. Since December 2025, he has been the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Orion Astropreneur Space Academy, dedicating himself to promoting the commercial space ecosystem in Hong Kong.

Chairman Lam, Council Members, President Teng, distinguished guests, dear friends and relatives,

I am deeply honoured and grateful to be awarded this prestigious University Fellowship. I am humbled to be in the league of other prominent University Fellows.

I am from a humble family, having some detour in my life. However, I have always been blessed with support and love from angels around me, turning challenges into rewarding experience, and giving me a meaningful life.

One such story is about my secondary education. I was able to complete it with the financial support from a couple living in Toronto, whom I had never met. Their unconditional love for a stranger left a deep impression in my heart. After secondary school, I worked for 6 years and saved some money for university education in the US. During that time, my siblings took on the burden of supporting our family. I appreciate it.

Then came my over 30 years of rewarding career in finance, with angels presenting me with challenges, opportunities and guidance, often giving me a second chance after failure. These friends, colleagues, and family members are God-sent to cheer me when I am up, and to comfort me when I am down. I appreciate it.

Upon retiring from full-time career, I dedicated myself to serving the young generation. My own humble beginnings allow me to empathise with youth in need. I support the at-risk youths through Youth Outreach, senior-high-schoolers through China Care Fund and university students at PolyU, and inspire young entrepreneurs. This wide spectrum of youngsters enriches my life.

My experience with PolyU has been extraordinary. PolyU is now a beacon of teaching, research, innovation, and societal advancement. I am grateful to have witnessed and participated in this wonderful journey. I am deeply impressed by the University’s strong leadership and the dedication of its members and angels, whose wisdom in navigating opportunities, challenges and even crises provided me with great learning experience and satisfaction.

I shall conclude with a verse from the Bible, “Whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” While I may be seen giving away, I am gaining tremendously. While there is little each of us can do alone, our joint efforts can make a beautiful world.

My heartfelt thank you to all of you and my family.