(Senior) Development Partner, Trade Development & Strategy

What the role is

The Trade Division drives initiatives that advance Singapore's ambitions as a global trade and commodity hub. Within the Division, the Trade Development and Strategy (TDS) team plays a central role in this effort, interpreting policy frameworks that govern market access under Singapore's Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and overseeing the Commodity Trading Act (CTA).

What you will be working on

In this role, you will work with companies, partners, and government agencies to oversee Singapore's Services and Investment commitments under Singapore's FTAs and the CTA. Across both, you will shape regulatory processes, strengthen governance, and engage stakeholders across the trade and commodity ecosystem. You will also contribute to policy and legislative improvements that directly enhance Singapore's competitiveness and attractiveness as a global commodity trading hub.

• Translate Singapore's Services and Investment commitments under its FTAs into practical guidance, giving businesses clarity on the market access available in overseas markets and their rights and obligations.
• Champion businesses market access interests with government agencies and ministries, channelling them into policy discussions.
• Manage the CTA, including handling licence applications, assessments, and enquiries.
• Provide guidance to businesses on the scope of licensable activities under the CTA, including the applicability of licensing exemptions.
• Drive engagement with the business community to build awareness of FTA market access commitments and the CTA, and how companies can benefit from them.

What we are looking for

What You'll Be Using and Applying

• 3 to 5 years of relevant work experience.
• Able to balance both an economic development and regulatory mindset.
• Strong process improvement mindset, with the ability to identify opportunities to streamline workflows, strengthen governance.
• Comfortable reading and making sense of detailed policy or regulatory documents and translating them into practical guidance.
• Strong stakeholder management and communication skills, with the ability to engage companies, stakeholders and partner agencies effectively.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining a collaborative mindset.
• Meticulous and detail-oriented.
• Exposure to regulatory matters is a plus, but not essential
• A relevant tertiary qualification in trade, economics, business, public policy, or a related discipline.

How We Work Together
We value individuals who work well with others, communicate clearly, take ownership of their work, and are open to learning and improvement. You should be comfortable navigating change and contributing positively to a collaborative team environment.