Assistant Director, Communications and Public Engagement

IMD Info-communications Media Development Authority; Singapore; On-site; SGD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

IMDA is spearheading Singapore’s drive to be a world-leading Digital Economy. This role leads strategic communications, branding and public engagement for BTG’s emerging technology portfolio, shaping messaging for robotics and intelligent systems in public spaces and the Punggol Digital District robotics precinct.

With 15+ years in strategic communications, you will manage partner relations, develop evidence-based narratives, and advise senior leadership across agencies to protect organisational

Qualifications

• 15+ years of experience in strategic communications, public relations or marketing.
• Proven ability to engage senior stakeholders and influence policy, industry and academia.

Responsibilities

• Develop compelling narratives to drive awareness of BTG’s emerging technology portfolio.
• Establish brand identity and messaging frameworks for BTG’s portfolio and Punggol Digital District.
• Represent IMDA in cross-agency communications and coordinate priorities across partners.

Skills

Strategic communications

Public relations

Stakeholder management

Crisis communications

Job description

What the role is

IMDA is spearheading Singapore’s drive to be a world-leading Digital Economy. Within IMDA, the BizTech Group (BTG) drives innovation and adoption across emerging technologies, including robotics and quantum communications, to advance Singapore’s digital future. Sitting at the intersection of IMDA’s central Communications & Marketing Division and BTG, this role will lead the strategic communications, branding and public engagement for BTG’s emerging technology portfolio. As robotics and intelligent systems increasingly move beyond controlled environments into public spaces, a key focus will be on building public awareness, understanding and acceptance of these technologies. A core priority will be shaping the communications and positioning of the Punggol Digital District robotics precinct, one of Singapore’s most ambitious testbeds for the deployment of autonomous and intelligent systems. Join us in our journey architecting Singapore’s digital future.

What you will be working on

Develop a compelling, evidence-based narrative to drive awareness and understanding of BTG’s work in the emerging technology space. Translate complex technology concepts into compelling, accessible stories for policymakers, industry, media, and the public, while considering national interests, public perception and partner sentiments. Establish and manage the brand identity and positioning for BTG\'s emerging technology portfolio, including the Punggol Digital District robotics precinct. Develop co-branding and messaging frameworks — including a message house that serves BTG\'s broader portfolio — to ensure consistency and synergies across different organisational voices, while allowing partners to amplify the narrative authentically. Represent IMDA in cross-agency communications functions related to the BTG portfolio, serving as the primary communications interface between IMDA and partner agencies, industry stakeholders, and academia. Lead coordination on communications priorities, narrative alignment, and joint engagement efforts across the Punggol Digital District precinct and other BTG projects. Lead stakeholder management and communications coordination for the Punggol Digital District, managing relationships with precinct partners, aligning messaging timelines, and brokering communications decisions across a complex multi-stakeholder environment. Ensure that partner communications are coherent, timely, and consistent with IMDA\'s broader narrative. Identify and optimise digital and social media channels to maximise reach, leveraging platforms within IMDA as well as partners’ channels. Drive and implement public engagement strategy, fostering a culture of collegiality, seamless collaboration and joint accountability. Establish monitoring and reporting routines to track sentiment, reach, and engagement. Use data-driven insights to manage communications, mitigate emerging risks, recommend course corrections, and provide evidence-based counsel to senior leadership across collaborating agencies. In the event of an incident or reputational risk, lead the development and execution of crisis communications responses, working swiftly across internal and external stakeholders to manage public perception and protect organisational trust. Develop shared playbooks, messaging guides, and engagement templates that raise the baseline quality of engagement across BTG. Mentor and guide team members to elevate communications and public engagement capabilities for BTG.

What we are looking for

At least 15 years of relevant experience in strategic communications, public relations, public engagement or marketing. Proven track record in multi-agency stakeholder management (including industry and academia) and public engagement frameworks. Ability to engage and influence senior stakeholders, with the confidence and judgement to provide candid, well-reasoned counsel. Strong narrative development skills with the ability to understand needs of the business units and translate complex emerging tech into clear messaging. Analytically minded, with experience setting and tracking communications metrics and using data to back strategy refinement. undefined Deep experience in media relations, with familiarity pitching local and international/business media. Comfortable operating in a matrixed environment, with the ability to build credibility and manage relationships across multiple organisational teams simultaneously. Experience in crisis communications, including developing response frameworks, managing media enquiries under pressure, and coordinating across stakeholders during sensitive or high-profile situations, is an advantage. Exceptional written, verbal, and executive presentation skills. Position will be commensurate with the candidate’s qualifications and experience.

Be part of the team that shapes the future of Singapore. The Singapore Public Service plays a key role in the economic growth, progress and stability of Singapore by formulating and implementing government policies, as well as providing key public services. Whether you are a fresh graduate joining the workforce or an experienced professional, the Singapore Public Service offers a great variety of job opportunities for you. The work in the Public Service can be broadly categorised into the following sectors: Economic, Social, Security & External Relations, and Administration & Corporate Development. Log on and take your first step towards a career that matters!