(Senior) Development Partner, Venture Build 2 (SED)

What the role is

As part of the Startup Ecosystem Development (SED) team, you will play a key role in nurturing the next generation of deep tech ventures and seeding new technology clusters with potential to drive future economic growth.

You will work closely with global venture builders, research institutions, corporates, and public sector partners to develop promising areas such as quantum technologies, embodied AI, advanced materials, and other emerging domains. Through national programmes and flagship platforms like Singapore Week of Innovation & Technology (SWITCH), you will help position Singapore as a leading global hub for deep tech innovation.

What you will be working on

Key Responsibilities
1) Development of Deep Tech Microcosms
. Conduct ecosystem sensing and foresighting to shape national strategies in frontier technology domains (e.g., quantum, embodied AI).
. Convene researchers, corporates, investors, and thought leaders to validate market potential and co-develop tech roadmaps.
. Design interventions such as regulatory sandboxes, pilot use cases, and public-private workgroups to accelerate early adoption.

2) Venture Builder & Startup Enablement
. Identify and onboard leading venture builders and ecosystem partners under Startup SG Accelerator/Founder initiatives.
. Co-develop structured milestones to support startup formation, talent acquisition, pilot projects, and follow-on investment.
. Monitor startup progress and ensure access to technical, business, and capital resources.

3) Cross-Government & International Engagement
. Partner with agencies like NRF, A.STAR, IMDA, and MAS to align national strategies and policies.
. Represent Singapore at global innovation platforms (e.g., ARPA-E, London Tech Week) and forge strategic partnerships.

4) Thought Leadership & Flagship Events
. Curate deep tech panels, showcases, and international keynotes for SWITCH and other platforms.
. Surface and promote success stories and emerging technologies to grow Singapore's global mindshare as a leading startup hub.

5) Programme and Grant Management
. Manage end-to-end implementation of deep tech support schemes (e.g., SSGF, SSGA) from evaluation to grant administration.
. Conduct due diligence, ensure compliance, and measure programme impact to inform future policy design.

6) Systems and Process Optimisation
. Strengthen operational workflows, digital systems, and data tracking frameworks for efficient programme delivery.
. Support internal planning with performance dashboards, governance processes, and strategic reviews.

What we are looking for

Essential
. 3-5 years of experience in deep tech, venture building, corporate innovation, VC, or strategy/policy roles.
. Proven track record in leading innovation programmes, commercialising emerging tech, or managing complex partnerships.
. Strong strategic and operational skills - able to toggle between high-level thinking and hands-on execution.
. Confident communicator and relationship builder - comfortable working with founders, researchers, corporates, and public agencies.
. Entrepreneurial mindset - adaptable, proactive, and effective in navigating ambiguity.

Desirable
. Domain exposure in areas such as quantum, robotics/embodied AI, advanced materials, or climate tech.
. Familiarity with regulatory sandboxes, standards development, or public funding mechanisms.
. Experience engaging with global startup ecosystems or technology clusters.