You work closely with MINDEF and the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) to strategise and plan the SAF's Defence Relations efforts to achieve policy outcomes and advance the SAF's interests. This includes planning and overseeing the Defence Relations calendar of events for identified SAF leadership and maintaining an overarching view of Defence Relations engagements across MINDEF and the SAF.
MINDEF
Assistant Director (Defence Relations - Joint)
Permanent
Closing on 06 Apr 2026What the role is
What you will be working on
- Keep abreast of political, geopolitical and military developments in countries of interest, including agreements, high-level and working-level engagements, and bilateral exercises to assess implications on SAF's Defence Relations policy
- Develop deep expertise knowledge in each country's strategic dynamics, key issues, personalities and perceptions of Singapore/SAF whilst identifying emerging trends
- Conduct research, synthesise information and present informed recommendations in coordination across MINDEF and SAF
- Prepare briefing and briefing folders for identified SAF leaderships for Defence Relations engagements
- Provide quick assessments of events in ever-changing security environment in context of MINDEF/SAF
Challenge(s)
- Managing dynamic nature of job as Defence Relations may be adversely affected by developments in geopolitics
- Discerning and distilling wide-ranging sources of information which can impact the SAF and its operations
What we are looking for
- Education in International Relations, Political Science, Security Studies, Southeast Asian Studies, History or Social Sciences related fields
- At least 6 years of relevant experience in Experience in political, geopolitical, defence and security developments and defence policy is preferred
- Strong command of written and spoken English with proficiency in second language advantageous
- Keen interest in current trends across Singapore's political/geopolitical, defence and security developments
- Good appreciation of developments in countries/regions/organisations and knowledge on regional security issues
- Strategic thinking ability with capability to provide quick assessments in ever-changing security environment
- Team player who is motivated and motivational to the team
- Good interpersonal skills with ability to enjoy creative work and demonstrate innovative spirit in dealing with issues
Only shortlisted candidates will be notified.
About your application process
This job is closing on 06 Apr 2026.
If you do not hear from us within 4 weeks of the job ad closing date, we seek your understanding that it is likely that we are not moving forward with your application for this role. We thank you for your interest and would like to assure you that this does not affect your other job applications with the Public Service. We encourage you to explore and apply for other roles within MINDEF or the wider Public Service.
About MINDEF
The mission of MINDEF and the Singapore Armed Forces is to enhance Singapore's peace and security through deterrence and diplomacy, and should these fail, to secure a swift and decisive victory over the aggressor.
The Defence Executive Officer (DXO) scheme is the non-uniformed career scheme of MINDEF that offers myriad opportunities in various job functions, such as corporate communications, cyber security, data analytics and visualisation, defence policy, finance, HR, psychology, and more. Embodying the same level of commitment towards defence, DXOs work together with their military counterparts to contribute to MINDEF/SAF’s mission and ensure Singapore's security and stability. United by this common cause, our lines of defence complement each other to secure the prosperity and progress of our nation.
Learn more about MINDEF