The Hong Kong Institute of Directors (HKIoD) is delighted to announce the opening of nominations for the distinguished HKIoD Awards for Director Excellence 2025. Celebrating its 25th year, the awards programme includes the Directors of the Year Awards (DYA), Climate Governance Awards (CGA), and the newly introduced Social Impact Awards (SIA). The theme for this year, “Redefining Leadership for the New Era,” underscores HKIoD’s commitment to inspire impactful leadership and honour outstanding contributions to corporate governance and sustainability.

Directors of the Year Awards (DYA) aim to celebrate exceptional boards and directors, fostering excellence in corporate governance and director professionalism. Launched in 2024, the Climate Governance Awards (CGA) acknowledge significant achievements in climate governance and encourage directors to lead on climate action, contributing to a sustainable future. The Social Impact Awards (SIA), new for 2025, recognise board governance that supports social sustainability and promotes best practices among directors.

Dr. Christopher To, Chairman of HKIoD, emphasises that amidst economic challenges and geopolitical tensions, directors must exhibit adaptability, vision, and integrity. He highlights the importance of directors leading the way in climate action, guiding companies to identify risks and opportunities, and working towards a sustainable future.

Mr. Jonathan Shea, CEO of HKIoD, encourages eligible candidates to submit their nominations by 31 July 2025, focusing the awards on board governance and aiming to inspire outstanding board performance across three key areas.

Ms. Cordelia Chung, a previous award recipient and Board Chairman of HKBN Ltd, emphasises the importance of board diversity and trust. She advocates for active listening and informal communication to build trust and strategic thinking, encouraging directors to join committees for in-depth discussions.

Mr. Martin Li, CFO and Executive Director of Hengan International Group Company Limited and a past award recipient, underscores the challenge of balancing internal and external demands in corporate governance. He urges companies to participate in the awards, noting the process as a valuable exercise in self-assessment and improvement.

Mr. Alex Yip, Chief Executive Officer – Greater China, Lockton Companies (Hong Kong) Limited, and a previous award recipient, stresses the importance of long-term decision-making, local empowerment, and active participation in sub-committees for effective board governance in non-listed companies.

Nominations for the three Awards will close on 31 July 2025. The judging panel consists of leaders, professionals, and regulators from Hong Kong. The awards recognise excellence in various categories, including listed companies, non-listed companies, statutory/non-profit-distributing organisations, executive directors, non-executive directors, and boards.

For more information and the nomination process, visit the HKIoD website at www.hkiod.com. The Hong Kong Institute of Directors is dedicated to promoting good corporate governance and director professionalism, fostering a culture of excellence in board governance.
This year’s awards programme continues HKIoD’s legacy of recognising leadership that not only thrives but also gives back to society and the environment, aligning with the transformative power of visionary leadership and the significant impact of effective governance in achieving success and sustainability.

For information on the selection criteria of the awards and nomination process, please visit: https://www.hkiod.com/award-series-for-director-excellence-2025/.

Nomination for the Awards will close on 31 July 2025. Soft copy of the completed Nomination Form and supporting documents should be sent to awards@hkiod.com.

Nominations open for HKIoD Award for Director Excellence 2025