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Ministry of Digital Development and Information

Senior Assistant Director / Deputy Director (Research), National AI Group

Ministry of Digital Development and Information

Permanent/Contract

Closing on 28 Aug 2025

What the role is

The Smart Nation Group within the Ministry of Digital Development and Information (MDDI) plays a multifaceted role in guiding Singapore's digital transformation and leading the development of Smart Nation strategies. In addition to driving the digitalisation of government services, the group oversees the development and application of digital technologies and capabilities across Singapore. It also promotes digital inclusivity, while regulating data and online activities and strengthening digital security. Through its comprehensive approach, the group strives to create a digitally empowered and inclusive society, positioning Singapore as a global leader in the digital era.

What you will be working on

The National AI Group (NAIG) within Smart Nation is responsible for the development and implementation of our National AI Strategy (NAIS). It brings together government, industry, and research stakeholders to implement National AI Projects in key sectors in Singapore and builds AI ecosystem enablers in a deliberate manner to anchor AI development and deployment in Singapore. In addition to its responsibility to implement the NAIS, NAIG facilitates and drives collaborations with industry and R&D players to build up AI capabilities within the Singapore Government. You will be part of the Research directorate within NAIG. Specific Job Responsibilities - What do we expect from you? You will lead a team to: • Drive strategic research initiatives and design high-impact initiatives and schemes that strengthen Singapore's AI research capabilities and accelerate research translation • Spearhead partnerships with agencies and industry players to leverage research outcomes for sectoral transformation, including identifying strategic use cases and developing essential research infrastructure • Shape Singapore's international research collaborations and talent networks, enhancing our position as a global AI hub • Provide thought leadership in developing policies and frameworks that advance Singapore's AI research ecosystem Who will you work with in achieving these objectives: Working closely with leadership across key agencies including NRF, IMDA, EDB, public research institutions/research institutions and industry corporate labs. What makes this role unique, and what will you learn? This role offers the opportunity to shape Singapore's position as a leading global AI hub, working with a dynamic team in a strategic and fast-moving domain.

What we are looking for

An ideal candidate should possess the following: • At least 8 years of relevant experience, with proven track record in technology partnership development and research ecosystem building • At least 4 years of supervisory experience in leading and developing teams • Strong understanding of AI technology landscape and ability to engage credibly with technical experts and business leaders • Experience in public sector or research organisation management • Track record in driving cross-agency initiatives and managing complex stakeholder relationships • Familiarity with National Research Foundation’s Research Innovation and Enterprise (RIE) policies and processes is a plus Personal traits: • Strategic mindset with ability to operate effectively in fast-paced, ambiguous environments • Strong leadership capabilities with proven ability to influence and align multiple stakeholders • Excellent communication skills to engage with both technical experts and senior leadership • Ability to drive execution and deliver results in a dynamic environment We regret to inform that only shortlisted candidates would be notified. For more information on careers in MDDI, please access the link (https://www.mddi.gov.sg/join-us/careers/life-at-mddi/). For more information on our job vacancies, please access Careers@Gov (https://www.careers.gov.sg/) and search for “MDDI” in the Search bar.

About Ministry of Digital Development and Information

The Ministry of Digital Development and Information (MDDI) drives Singapore’s digital development in four key domains — the economy, government, security, and society. MDDI oversees the development of the infocomm technology, cybersecurity, and media sectors; the Government’s digitalisation initiatives; and the national library, national archives, and public libraries. The Ministry is also responsible for effective public communications, and the Government’s information and public communication policies.

About your application process

This job is closing on 28 Aug 2025.

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 Ministry of Digital Development and Information or the wider Public Service.