The Government said on Friday that Patrick Li Pak-chuen would become Director of Broadcasting on March 1, replacing Leung Ka-wing who is stepping down early.

It said Leung's contract was due to expire in August, but it had been resolved early by mutual consent.

The announcement comes just ahead of the release of a report on Friday on the governance and management of RTHK.

The government said in the statement that it had conducted an open recruitment but couldn't find a suitable candidate for the post.

It said Li had joined the administrative service in 1990 and had served in various bureaux and departments, including the former Constitutional Affairs Branch, the former Civil Service Branch, the Home Affairs Department, the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau and the Chief Executive's office.

The Secretary for the Civil Service, Patrick Nip, said Li would ensure that RTHK fully abides by its charter.

"Li is a seasoned Administrative Officer with proven leadership and management skills," Nip said.

"I believe that he will continue to serve the community with professionalism and dedication in his new capacity, and ably lead the Radio Television Hong Kong (RTHK) to meet the challenges ahead."

Leung said in a note to staff that the past five and a half years of serving "RTHK and society with you have been indelible, and I am grateful for every moment."