HKIA Project Manager (Architect) / PM(A)

Background

In recognition of the growing demand for professional project management within the building and construction sectors, the Hong Kong Institute of Architects (HKIA) is committed to nurturing and recognising professionals equipped to manage projects with high quality and established standards. The establishment of the title, Project Manager (Architect) allows HKIA members who specialise in project management to have recognised status, and correspond to the latest development of the construction industry:

• Increasing Demand

There is a significant need from private, quasi-government, and government bodies for qualified project management professionals / services for building projects.

• Changing Landscape

With the imminent introduction of the System of Professional Liability (SoPL), leading consultants and architects may be less willing to assume legal liabilities/responsibilities across various consultancy services. Project management services would more likely be adopted for overall project coordination.

Roles of PM(A)

The establishment of the PM (A) does not intend to disrupt the existing PM consultancies selection mechanism of the market that has been in place for decades. Project managers with architectural backgrounds bring unique value to building project, with key edges such as following:

• Design Understanding: They can bridge the gap between technical execution and creative vision, ensuring the design intent is maintained throughout construction.
• Problem-Solving: Architects are trained to think spatially and strategically, helping them anticipate challenges and propose practical solutions.
• Communication Skills: They can effectively liaise with engineers, contractors, and clients, translating complex architectural concepts into actionable plans.
• Quality Control: Their knowledge of materials and construction methods ensures that the project meets high design and build standards.
• Regulatory Compliance: Architects are well-versed in building codes and regulations, helping navigate approvals and avoid costly mistakes.
• Holistic Approach: Beyond just timelines and budgets, they consider aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability, delivering a project that excels in all aspects.

Having a project manager who is also an architect can make a big difference in the success of a building project, leading to better coordination, efficiency, and overall quality.

Title of the specialist:

HKIA Project Manager (Architect) / PM(A)

Code of the Ethics:

• Adherence to the HKIA Code of Professional Conduct.
• Good practices would further be explored and shared with members through established channels including CPD events.

Eligibilities:

1. Membership:

• A minimum of continuous 7 years of full membership with HKIA, OR 
• A minimum of continuous 7 years of membership with ARBHK as a Registered Architect

AND 

2. Experience:

• At least 7 years of experience in project management (experience from both local and overseas projects is accepted):
  • Experience prior to acquiring HKIA full membership may count, but at least  5 years must be post-membership.
  • Experience can be as a project manager for a developer/client or as a manager in a consultancy firm.
  • ‘Full project cycle’ experience is required, which can be accumulated from various projects at different stages as defined under the HKIA consultancy agreement.

Assessment framework:

For ALL:  Written Submission Applicants must provide documentation demonstrating:

• • Full HKIA membership.
  • A minimum of 7 years of relevant project management experience as stated in the “Eligibilities”.

As-Needed Assessment:  Interview (will only be required when there are doubts on materials submitted and /or, information stated on the application form)

• • Candidates will attend an interview for clarification of doubts on materials submitted, meanwhile demonstrating his/her competencies in project management where necessary.

Endorsement Protocol

• • Project Management Accreditation Committee (PMAC)’s will review the applications and make recommendations to BEdA and Council for endorsement

Annual Renewal

• • PM(A) status would be deemed renewed upon renewal of membership annually, in line with practices for other lists of specialists. 

Application Fee (one-off):

• • A fee of HK$1000 must be submitted along with the application form.

Recognition of the specialist upon successful application and renewal:

Successful applicants will receive a confirmation email annually. The accreditation will be valid upon members’ declaration to remain on the Project Manager (Architect) list during the HKIA annual membership renewal process.

• Publish a list of individual PM (A) holders on HKIA website

Application and Assessment timeline

• • Application period (Applications are accepted throughout the year)
  • Assessment of the written statement 
  • Interviews (where necessary)
  • Membership endorsement by the BEdA and HKIA Council
  • Result announcement

Appeal System:

• A candidate who fails Interview/Assessment may apply in writing to PM Accreditation Committee (PMAC) for a review of his/her result within 14 calendar days from the date of announcement of results (but excluding the day of announcement) with an application fee of $300 giving the brief grounds for review for justification. Late appeals will not be considered.
• The grounds for such application shall be confined to material administrative error in the Assessment process only.
• Disagreement with the decision of the assessors, illness or medical-related circumstances shall not be accepted as grounds for review. The applicant in his/her application shall demonstrate to the satisfaction of PMAC that there is sufficient evidence to support such an application before it can be accepted.
• Appeal result normally will be released 4 weeks after the close of appeal application period. Successful appeal will be refundable in full.
• Each Candidate is permitted to one single appeal. The PMAC’s decision shall be final and binding.

Continue Professional Development:

• Collaboration with the CPDO to organise CPD events in hybrid mode to ensure the professionalism development of the members.

Application Form

• PDF
• Online Form

Enquries

FAQ

pm@hkia.org.hk