Job Title: Finance Director
Location: Singapore - Central
Your New Company
A leading public sector organization in Singapore focused on scientific research and innovation, operating under the Ministry of Trade and Industry, plays a central role in advancing national R&D capabilities across areas such as biomedical sciences, advanced manufacturing and engineering. It oversees a network of research institutes and actively partners with multinational corporations, SMEs and other government agencies to drive the translation of research into commercially viable outcomes aligned with Singapore's long-term economic priorities.
From a finance perspective, the environment is largely government-funded and policy-driven, with close alignment to national frameworks and multi-year innovation plans. Finance teams are typically involved in budgeting, grant management, and resource allocation across complex programs, while working closely with central agencies. The role tends to focus more on governance, funding oversight and strategic planning rather than purely commercial activities, offering strong exposure to public sector financial management and national-level initiatives.
New Role
Lead oversight of statutory board finance operations, ensuring robust governance, consistent application of financial policies, and accurate reporting to the Ministry and senior stakeholders
Drive strong financial controls and compliance frameworks across entities to ensure integrity and accountability in financial management
Steward the organization's Research Development Fund budgets as both grantor and implementing agency, ensuring effective planning, utilization, and liquidity management
Ensure full compliance with MTI and MOF budgetary requirements (including cash budget frameworks), supporting disciplined use of public funds and continuity of funding
Oversee end-to-end financial reporting, including cash budgets, awarded and committed budgets, retained earnings, and multi-year RIE block funding
Manage mid-year and year-end financial reporting processes to senior management, Audit Committees, Board EXCO, Board, and the parent Ministry
Lead engagement with internal and external auditors (including AGO), ensuring timely resolution of audit findings and continuous strengthening of control environments
Support strategic financial planning and decision-making at the organizational level, aligned with national and institutional priorities
Key Qualifications for Success
Degree in Finance or Accountancy, with a recognized professional qualification (e.g. CA, CPA, ACCA)
At least 10 years of senior leadership experience within public sector finance, ideally at Director level or above in a Statutory Board or Ministry, with proven oversight of budget planning, execution, and financial reporting
Strong knowledge of financial governance frameworks, including MOF budget policies, public sector accounting standards, and audit requirements, with regular engagement with central agencies such as MTI, MOF, and EDB
Demonstrated ability to engage, influence, and partner with senior stakeholders across Ministries, Boards, and central agencies
Proven ability to operate effectively in a complex, high-stakes environment, driving strategic initiatives independently while collaborating across stakeholders
Ready to Take the Next Step
Interested applicants may submit their updated CV by clicking APPLY NOW. All applications will be reviewed and treated in strict confidence.
Do note that we will only be in touch if your application is shortlisted.
Bryan Ashwin
JAC Recruitment Pte Ltd
EA License Number: 90C3026
EA Personnel: R24122938
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