Born in Hong Kong and a graduate of Northcote College of Education, Helen first joined the Hong Kong Government as a primary school teacher. She joined the Cultural Services of the former Urban Services Department in 1978 as an Assistant Manager and retired as Chief Manager in 1995. The quality of her work during her years with the Cultural Services is reflected by three commendations. Helen also received the 30 Years' Meritorious Service Award in 1993.

Meanwhile she took time out to obtain a Diploma of Management for Executive Development in 1980 and a Certificate for Arts Administration in 1984. Leaving the Hong Kong Government did not mean ending her career in arts management. Helen worked with the Hong Kong Arts Festival in 1995 and the Hong Kong Arts Development Council in 1996 before joining the Hong Kong Ballet as General Manager in 1997. She is now Chief Executive Officer of the Company.