Former Police Deputy Chief Yuan Xujiian Takes Food Safety Role, June 16

Hong Kong’s government announced multiple high-level civil service appointments on June 15. Yuan Xujiian, former deputy commissioner of the Police Force, takes charge of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department starting June 16. Three other senior officials also move to new roles. These appointments follow public and internal recruitment processes completed in recent months.

Yuan’s Background and New Role

Yuan Xujiian joined the Police Force in 1986 as an inspector and spent decades investigating criminal cases. He rose through the ranks to become deputy commissioner for operations, serving in that position from August 2021 to August 2023. He received the Silver Bauhinia Star award in 2023. Yuan replaces Ng Man-kit, who is retiring. The government hired Yuan as a consultant to the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department for one year starting November 2023.

Other Senior Appointments

Chen Chieling, former Greater Bay Area development commissioner, becomes communications director on July 2, replacing retiring Leung Chung-yin. Chan Wai-yan, currently deputy secretary for financial services and treasury, takes the tourism commissioner role on June 25. Yao Jizhu, current deputy director of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department, becomes director of the Hong Kong government’s Beijing office on June 29, replacing retiring Cheng Wai-yuen.

Government’s Confidence in New Leaders

Yang Ho-pui, secretary for civil service, praised all appointees for their leadership and management skills. She said Yuan has extensive public administration and law enforcement experience and will drive reform at the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department. The department handles food safety, market management, environmental sanitation, and columbarium operations. Yang thanked two retiring officials for over 30 years of service.

Recruitment and Salary Details

The government conducted public and internal recruitment for the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department director position in February 2026. Candidates needed a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, at least 15 years of administrative experience including 7 years in senior roles, and fluency in English, Cantonese, and Mandarin. The director role carries a salary between HK$287,990 and HK$296,535 monthly at civil service rank D6.

Final Thoughts

Yuan Xujiian’s appointment reflects the government’s strategy of moving experienced law enforcement officials into civilian administrative roles. His police background and management track record position him to lead the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department through ongoing reforms.

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