Executive Director, Programmes Division

The Singapore International Foundation (SIF) is a non-profit organisation founded in 1991. We aim to build eco-systems to catalyse change for a better world. We bring together people from the public, private and philanthropic sectors across countries to harness the collective strength that is needed to address shared environmental and social challenges. Our work is focused on the areas of climate, digital, education, health, justice and youth. We believe that cross-boundary collaboration is critical to foster sustainable solutions in an interconnected world.

The Programmes Division designs and implements programmes that bring people together to share ideas, skills and resources to enrich lives and effect positive change. With the aim of catalysing strategic multi-stakeholder collaboration for sustainable social impact, we initiate convenings and develop platforms that foster partnerships, drive innovation, and mobilise resources for collective action.

We invite candidates who share our vision of making friends for a better world to apply for the position.

A senior level management position, the Executive Director (ED) of the Programmes Division at the SIF leads a team focused on developing and implementing a wide range of social impact programmes across Southeast Asia, China, and India in the areas of health, climate, digital transformation, education, justice, and youth. The ED ensures these programmes align with SIF’s mission and in support of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs). Besides driving long-term growth and sustainability of SIF’s programmes, other key responsibilities include strategic planning, partnership development, and effective programme delivery. The ED also leads programme monitoring and evaluation efforts, fosters partnerships with various stakeholders. As a senior leader in SIF, the ED mentors a high-performing team and drives a culture of excellence, innovation, and collaboration to achieve the organisation’s goals.

Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Programme Development:

• Lead the strategic development and implementation of growth strategies that align with corporate objectives, focus areas, global trends and UNSDG priorities, ensuring an appropriate response to regional needs.
• To build upon existing programmes, to oversee comprehensive programme design, execution, and evaluation to ensure high quality delivery and measurable impact, and to ensure alignment of in-country projects across the focus areas.
• Translate research findings into practical recommendations, and to influence and guide their implementation.
• Drive thought leadership initiatives to amplify impact of programmes.

Stakeholder Engagement & Partnerships:

• Establish strategic alliances with programme partners to create mutually beneficial partnerships and secure funding opportunities through philanthropic capital and other partners.
• Formulate country engagement strategies.

Team Leadership & Capacity Building:

• Lead and mentor programme teams, fostering collaboration and professional development.

Financial & Risk Management:

• Oversee budgets, ensuring effective resource allocation and expenditure monitoring.
• Develop strategies to achieve programme financial sustainability and mitigate financial, operational, and reputational risks.

Requirements:

• Degree in Business Administration, International Relations, Marketing, Public Policy, or Political Science.
• At least 15 years of relevant experience in non-profits and/or social impact settings, including communications, event management, and outreach.
• Proven expertise in programme design, partnership development, and stakeholder management.
• Experience working with international organisations in the areas of Health, Climate, Education, Justice, and Youth is an added advantage.
• Strong leadership and team management abilities.
• Proficiency in budget management, event planning, project execution, and resource management.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English (proficiency in other Southeast Asian languages is a plus).
• Strong interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and ability to collaborate effectively across diverse stakeholders.
• Resilient, proactive, and a resourceful self-starter with strong analytical, problem-solving, and organisational skills.
• Detail-oriented, solutions-driven, and capable of handling multiple assignments effectively.
• Singaporean.

Interested candidates are invited to send in your applications online or via email with your resume, stating your current and expected salary to hr@sif.org.sg.

We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.