Dr Allen Shi Lop-tak, SBS, BBS, MH, JP

EMBA Graduate, College of Business
Recipient, CityUHK 8th Distinguished Alumni Award
Court member, CityUHK
Honorary Fellow, CityUHK
Member of the Board of Governors, CityUHK Foundation
Honorary Vice-President, CityUHK Foundation
Chairman and Founder, Brilliant International Group Limited
Honorary President, The Chinese Manufacturers’ Association of Hong Kong

“Be true to your word and boldly take on challenges.”

Executive Classroom 6208 at CityUHK was named the “Allen Shi Lop Tak Executive Classroom” in appreciation of his generous support.

CityUHK conferred Dr Shi with the title of Honorary Fellow.

Dr Shi (2nd from right) receives the 8th Distinguished Alumni Award of CityUHK.

Professor Freddy Boey (right), President of CityUHK, shares his insights on higher education in an interview with Dr Shi, who served as President of The Chinese Manufacturers’ Association of Hong Kong then.

Dr Allen Shi Lop-tak, Founder and Chairman of Brilliant International Group Limited, embodies Hong Kong's entrepreneurship spirit. With four decades of industry experience on his resume, he emphasises the importance of innovation and adaptability in achieving success. “To excel in entrepreneurship, one must adapt to trends and pursue continuous improvement,” he says.

Born into a modest family, Dr Shi says his journey began as a printing apprentice in his teenage years following his mother’s encouragement to acquire practical skills. In 1985, he seized the opportunity to set up Brilliant Printing Limited. The path to establishing his company was fraught with challenges, including workforce shortages and cash flow issues. Yet, through hard work and perseverance, he transformed his small enterprise, which started with just over 10 employees, into one of southern China’s largest and most advanced commercial printing and packaging companies, serving clients worldwide.

As his company expanded, Dr Shi recognised that advanced business knowledge was needed to manage increasingly complex operational strategies and market developments. Consequently, he enrolled in the Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA) programme at City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) in 2005. “A friend recommended the EMBA programme because it has an excellent reputation in the business community.”

Dr Shi’s studies at CityUHK enriched his theoretical understanding and enhanced operational processes within his company. Integrating modern technology into production boosted efficiency and reduced manual errors, significantly improving output. Dr Shi remembers an unforgettable project during his studies when some of the ideas he and his classmates suggested for improving Beijing Capital International Airport were implemented.

Dr Shi believes that nurturing young talent is essential for societal advancement. Understanding the challenges he has faced in his educational journey, he is committed to providing more opportunities for the youth. Over the years, he has established bursaries, scholarships, and generous donations for various universities.

As a graduate of this EMBA programme, Dr Shi is deeply connected to his alma mater. “A day as a CityUHKer, for life a CityUHKer,” he highlights. He is a Court member, Vice-Chairman of the Eminence Society, a member of the Foundation Board of Governors, an Honorary Vice-President of the Foundation, and a mentor for HK Tech 300.

In appreciation of his generous contributions, Executive Classroom 6208 in the Lau Ming Wai Academic Building was named the “Allen Shi Lop Tak Executive Classroom”. In 2021, Dr Shi was conferred the title of Honorary Fellow for his significant contributions to the University and the community. In 2025, he received the 8th Distinguished Alumni Award, inspiring fellow alumni to leverage their skills across diverse fields, give back to society, and contribute to their alma mater’s development.

In addition to his contributions to education, Dr Shi actively promotes industry and serves the community. Over the years, he has taken up various roles in business organisations, advisory and public bodies, including the Chinese Manufacturers’ Association of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Trade Development Council, Hong Kong Productivity Council, Hong Kong Young Industrialist Council Foundation, Yan Oi Tong, Wong Tai Sin District Council and more. In recognition of his significant contributions to society, the HKSAR Government awarded him the Silver Bauhinia Star in 2023.

“Having the strength to help others is a blessing, and in helping others, you help yourself,” says Dr Shi. He enjoys sharing his knowledge and work experience through initiatives like the HK Tech 300 Mentorship Scheme at CityUHK, and he hopes to inspire future entrepreneurs and give back to society.

Dr Shi lives by the motto, “Be true to your word and boldly take on challenges.” He believes that integrity and perseverance are essential for personal and professional growth. Drawing on his life experiences, Dr Shi encourages CityUHK students to stay determined and strive for self-improvement.

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