After working in the private sector for about two and a half years upon graduation, I joined the Government as an AO in 2015. Five years into the job, I have completed three postings: I worked on district administration at the Sham Shui Po District Office, on formulation and implementation of cultural policy at the Home Affairs Bureau and on a public inquiry at the Secretariat of a Commission of Inquiry. Recently, I have been posted to the Financial Secretary’s Private Office and provide support to the work of the Financial Secretary. The regular rotations have offered me wide exposure in different areas and I appreciate the knowledge and multi-skills acquired on the job.
There are countless memorable occasions in my AO career, e.g. the very first time I spoke in a District Council meeting, my participation in relief services in emergency situations, the first time my work was covered by the media, etc. However, when it comes to the most memorable one, it is definitely the implementation of the Pilot Scheme on Enhancement of District Administration (the Pilot Scheme) in my first posting.
The 2014 Policy Address announced the launch of the Pilot Scheme in Sham Shui Po and Yuen Long Districts. In Sham Shui Po, we strove to address the issues of the “three nil” buildings and street sleepers. Our team worked closely with different government departments to formulate solutions agreeable to all. We also made efforts to solicit support from District Council members as well as the local community by introducing and explaining our plan to them on various occasions, such as public forums. The public engagement experience was definitely unforgettable.
After securing the support of the local community, the Pilot Scheme was implemented with the support of the various departments. I was glad to learn that it was positively received by the public, which brought me great satisfaction. I am very grateful to have participated in the entire process of planning, implementing and reviewing the Pilot Scheme, and am happy to witness that it has been extended to all 18 districts (now named as District-led Actions Scheme).
Regularly posted to diversified policy areas and positions, every day in the career of an AO is filled with new exposure and challenges. The meaningful job also provides you opportunities to contribute to our society and at the same time achieve personal growth.
If you are willing to embrace challenges and contribute to our home city, this job is for you.
You may pay more attention to current affairs. When being asked about your views and proposed solutions to certain issues during the written examination or interview, you may try to identify the problems in question and the views of different stakeholders, support your recommendations with justifications and assess the implications.