Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Southeast Asian Futures Initiative Centre Sdn Bhd; Kuala Lumpur; On-site; MYR 300,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional think tank in Kuala Lumpur seeks a Chief Executive Officer to lead economic and policy research initiatives in ASEAN. The ideal candidate will have over 8 years of leadership experience, a strong understanding of ASEAN economies, and exceptional skills in public engagement and relationship management. This role emphasizes strategic development, securing funding, and fostering cross-border collaboration to enhance regional cooperation.

Qualifications

• 8-10 years of leadership experience in economic policy or related fields.
• Deep understanding of ASEAN economies and trade frameworks.
• Proven ability to secure funding and ensure financial sustainability.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a strategy for the think tank's leadership in ASEAN.
• Oversee impactful research on sustainable economic development.
• Strengthen partnerships to address shared challenges like climate change.

Skills

Leadership in economic policy

Public speaking

Relationship management

Education

PhD or Master’s in economics or related field

Job description

Southeast Asian Futures Initiative Centre Sdn Bhd

Develop and execute a forward-looking strategy to position the think tank as a leader in ASEAN's futurist economic and policy research.

Drive research that identifies sustainable growth models, enhances trade resilience and fosters regional cooperation.

Stay ahead of emerging trends in technology, sustainability and geopolitics/geoeconomics to inform policy recommendations.

2. Research & Thought Leadership

Oversee high-impact research on sustainable economic development, trade policies, and international cooperation.

Ensure the think tank produces cutting‑edge, evidence‑based insights that inform policy decisions across ASEAN.

Lead initiatives on emerging economic and technological shifts such as (but not limited to) AI, digital trade and green finance.

3. Economic & Trade Policy Influence

Guide analysis on trade policies, market dynamics, and economic integration in ASEAN.

Collaborate with governments, regional bodies (e.g., ASEAN Secretariat, APEC, UNESCAP) and international institutions to shape resilient trade policies.

Advocate for policies that promote economic inclusivity, sustainability and digital transformation.

4. Regional & International Cooperation

Strengthen partnerships with governments, businesses, and multilateral organisations to address shared challenges like climate change, infrastructure development, and digital disruption.

Develop programmes that enhance cross‑border collaboration and foster economic resilience within ASEAN and beyond.

Represent the think tank in key regional and global forums, providing thought leadership on ASEAN’s future.

Secure funding from diverse sources, including governments, international donors, corporations, and philanthropic foundations.

Develop revenue‑generating programmes such as policy advisory services and commissioned research.

Ensure effective financial stewardship and long‑term sustainability of the organisation.

6. Public Engagement & Institutional Growth

Elevate the think tank’s visibility through media engagement, high‑profile publications and thought leadership events.

Build a strong digital presence to disseminate research findings and engage with key stakeholders.

Foster a collaborative, innovative and inclusive organisational culture.

(B) Qualifications & Experience

8-10 years of leadership experience in economic policy, international trade, sustainability or futurist research.

Deep understanding of ASEAN economies, regional trade frameworks and global economic trends.

Strong track record in policy engagement, influencing decision‑makers and managing high‑level stakeholder relationships.

Proven ability to secure funding and ensure financial sustainability.

Exceptional communication and public speaking skills, with thought leadership experience.

Advanced degree (PhD or Master’s) in economics, international relations, public policy or a related field.

(C) Preferred Attributes

Established networks within ASEAN governments, trade organisations, and multilateral institutions.

Experience in economic forecasting, digital transformation or sustainable finance.

Experience/expertise in regional development initiatives, such as RCEP, CPTPP, or BRI‑related projects.

Strong ability to bridge academic research with practical policymaking.

Your application will include the following questions:

• Which of the following statements best describes your right to work in Malaysia?
• What's your expected monthly basic salary?
• Which of the following types of qualifications do you have?
• How many years' experience do you have as a chief executive officer?
• Are you willing to undergo a pre‑employment background check?
• How much notice are you required to give your current employer?
• How many years' experience do you have as a manager / team lead?
• How many years of business management experience do you have?