Deputy/Assistant Director, Innovation Acceleration Office (Contract)

[What the role is]

The Innovation Acceleration Officer will spearhead strategic fintech development initiatives to strengthen Singapore's position as a premier global fintech hub. This dynamic role encompasses developing and executing comprehensive fintech strategies whilst conducting forward-looking horizon scanning to identify emerging technologies and promising fintech companies.

The officer will cultivate and maintain strategic partnerships with key industry stakeholders, facilitating meaningful government-to-government collaboration within the broader fintech ecosystem. A critical component of the role involves evaluating and managing grant applications to support innovative fintech ventures.

Beyond external engagement, the officer will contribute to internal transformation projects that enhance organisational capabilities and processes. The position includes account management responsibilities for an assigned portfolio spanning specific regions, countries, or strategic corporate partners.

The role requires flexibility for international travel to support stakeholder engagements, participate in bilateral meetings, and represent Singapore at major industry events and conferences.

[What you will be working on]

• Grants and Funding Programme Management - Oversee the administration and processing of fintech development grants and funding schemes. Evaluate applications against strategic criteria, coordinate with cross-functional teams for approvals, monitor project milestones and deliverables, and ensure compliance with grant conditions. Build relationships with financial institutions and fintech companies to facilitate their application for the Financial Sector Technology and Innovation (FSTI) grants and provide guidance on application processes.

• Strategic Intelligence and Partnerships - Conduct comprehensive monitoring and analysis of global fintech trends, emerging technologies, and regulatory developments to identify opportunities and risks for Singapore's financial sector. Serve as dedicated account manager for an assigned portfolio of regions, countries, or strategic companies, cultivating and maintaining high-level relationships with overseas regulators, government agencies, and key industry stakeholders.

• Internal Transformation Projects - Assist with internal transformation initiatives that leverage technology to enhance operational efficiency and regulatory effectiveness. Contribute programming capabilities to develop tools, automate processes, and support data analysis requirements for various transformation projects. Collaborate with internal technology teams to implement solutions that advance digital capabilities.

• Event Management and Industry Forums - Support the planning and execution of the Singapore FinTech Festival (SFF) and other forums organised by partners such as the Global Finance and Technology Network (GFTN) and Singapore FinTech Association (SFA). Work closely with industry partners to coordinate event logistics, stakeholder engagement, content development, and international participation.

[What we are looking for]

• Good strategic thinking, with realistic views. Grounded in current facts, while able to see possibilities.

• Strong analytical competence with the capacity to synthesise value from diverse, rapidly-changing sources.

• Strong interpersonal skills and able to positively influence internal and external stakeholders.

• Strong understanding of trends and developments in the global fintech landscape.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

• A good team player who is proactive and motivated, with keen interest in growing Singapore as a financial centre.

• Knowledge in programming languages such as Python, JavaScript and Rust

• Background in technology/consulting/government will be an advantage.

As part of the shortlisting process for this role, you may be required to complete a medical declaration and/or undergo further assessment. This is a contract till November 2026. All applicants will be notified on whether they are shortlisted or not within 4 weeks of the closing date of this job posting.