Herbert Hui Ho-ming stamped his personality strongly on the listing division and has earned the praise of his peers for the way he managed his department during his eight-year tenure at the exchange.
Mr Hui is well-known for his strong personality and belief in his own views, which sometimes led to tension with fellow exchange executives, but has left the listing division stronger and more efficient as a result.
Market sources yesterday said they were concerned whether existing projects would continue, a vote of confidence if ever there was one.
They said they were concerned about the speed at which listing applications would be processed as well as the introduction of new products.
More than 20 companies are waiting for a listing and a range of new products such as regional covered warrants, regional convertible bonds, depositary receipts and a hi-tech board are being studied by the listing committee.
Exchange sources said Mr Hui had prepared the ground for his departure months in advance and had fully briefed his successor Lawrence Fok on the issues.
Mr Hui joined the exchange in April 1989, was appointed executive director and head of listing in July 1992, and made deputy chief executive in 1996.
