Professor Xu is a leader in diverse fields. His research and development as a metallurgist has resulted in significant advances in the production of specialist steels and production technologies. As an educator he has provided leadership in engineering and technology education in China. As a manager he has led significant enterprises in China, and has attained high rank in community and political arenas. In his current role as President of the Chinese Academy of Engineering he has promoted strong links between Australian and Chinese Academies.