The University of Hawaii’s publishing arm has hired a new director and publisher.

Michael Duckworth will come to the university from Hong Kong, where he has been publisher of Hong Kong University Press since 2009.

Duckworth previously served as acquisitions editor and executive editor at the University of Washington Press. He’s been a member of editorial board of the Association for Asian Studies for several years.

The university said Tuesday Duckworth will start his new job in June.

UH Manoa Chancellor Tom Apple says Duckworth has impressive expertise, academic and administrative experience. Apple also thanks William Hamilton who retired in December after 25 years as director and publisher.