As stated in the PolyU Ordinance, the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) is the Chancellor of the University. In his/her absence, the person for the time being assuming the duties of the Chief Executive according to provisions of Article 53 of the Basic Law is the Acting Chancellor and has the powers and the duties of the Chancellor while acting.
The Chancellor may confer degrees and academic awards including honorary degrees and honorary awards in the name of the University. The Council Chairman may take up the role in the absence of the Chancellor.
The Chief Executive of the HKSAR shall appoint the Chairman and Deputy Chairman of the Council, Treasurer of the University as well as nine out of the 17 Council Lay Members (who are not employees or students of the University or public officers).
As Chancellor of the University, the Chief Executive of the HKSAR shall receive a report on the activities of the University, and the audited statements of income and expenditure as well as assets and liabilities of the University not later than six months after the end of each financial year.