Deputy Director, South Asia, Middle East and Africa Division

The Trade and International Economic Relations (TIER) cluster drives the formulation of Singapore's foreign economic policy and safeguards Singapore's economic interests in the international economic arena. The mission of South Asia, Middle East and Africa Division (SAMEA) is to advance and diversify Singapore’s economic interests in these markets. This contributes to MTI’s overall aim of expanding our external economic space and safeguarding our economic interests in the international space. In the course of our work, we engage a range of partners and stakeholders – government agencies, private companies, business chambers, thinktanks and universities – to grow mutual understanding and build bridges between Singapore and the regions at the government, business and people levels. We seek to open up new market opportunities for Singapore companies, position Singapore as a trusted partner in Asia, and ultimately champion and grow trade and investment between Singapore and the regions. As Deputy Director, you will lead a diverse and dedicated team in engaging our stakeholders in the South Asia, Middle East and Africa Markets. You will support your team to: • Track and analyse key geostrategic and economic developments and trends in your markets and assess their impact on Singapore’s trade and investment interests; • Develop, implement and review strategies, policies and initiatives that enhances Singapore’s bilateral and regional economic relations with countries in SAMEA; • Represent MTI during visits, meetings, negotiations and conferences, and where relevant, lead negotiations and discussions with international counterparts; • Build networks and relationships with foreign stakeholders, including government agencies, private companies, business chambers, thinktanks and universities; and • Drive effective talent management and staff capability development to meet the team’s current and future requirements. We welcome interested applicants with positive and open attitudes, who will thrive in a fast-paced environment with: • Strong interest in international relations and economics • Strong analytical and writing skills • Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders and maintain good cultural sensitivity • Demonstrated planning and organisational skills, with attention to detail and ability to multi-task • Proven leadership and supervisory capabilities, motivating and team-work driven • Be able to travel regularly • Prior experience in policy development and/or implementation, and familiarity with the SAMEA region, will be helpful.