Assistant Director (Strategy, Policy & Planning)

Ministry of Health; Singapore; On-site; SGD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

A government health agency in Singapore is seeking an experienced leader for mental health policy development. The role involves formulating national policies, engaging stakeholders, and driving long-term strategies for mental health. Candidates should have a strong background in healthcare or public health, with at least 10 years of experience. Excellent communication and analytical skills are essential. The position offers significant opportunities to impact Singapore’s healthcare landscape.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of relevant experience in healthcare and public policy.
• Strong understanding of health and social care sectors.
• Experience in mental health work and project management.

Responsibilities

• Lead team to formulate and review national mental health policies.
• Drive long-term planning and strategy development for digital mental health.
• Coordinate Whole-of-Government efforts for implementation.

Skills

Healthcare policy development

Leadership

Analytical skills

Stakeholder engagement

Communication skills

Education

Relevant qualifications in healthcare or public health

Postgraduate education in Public Health

Job description

What the role is:

You will play a critical role in supporting the coordination of Whole-of-Government efforts and the development of strategies and policies to implement the National Mental Health and Well-being Strategy. You will also support long-term strategic planning and the development of enablers in mental health care, as well as promote social-health integration within the mental health ecosystem of the future. This role requires working in a fast-paced and dynamic environment, managing multiple priorities and stakeholders simultaneously.

What you will be working on:

You will lead a team to formulate and review national mental health and well-being policies, engaging relevant community and inter-ministerial stakeholders to identify and address gaps in mental health services across healthcare, social, and related sectors. This includes mental well-being as part of upstream preventive efforts. You will also drive long-term planning and develop strategies such as a digital mental health (DMH) blueprint and a national mental health research strategy, defining action areas to accelerate the development, dissemination, and implementation of DMH tools, and prioritizing research areas. Additionally, you will support the implementation of the National Mental Health and Well-being Strategy by coordinating and monitoring Whole-of-Government efforts and serving as MOH liaison and secretariat for interagency mental health committees.

What we are looking for:

• Relevant qualifications in healthcare, public health, or related fields, preferably medicine, psychology, allied health, or life sciences.
• Medical degree holders must be registered with the Singapore Medical Council.
• Postgraduate education in Public Health or equivalent is an advantage.
• Minimum 10 years of relevant experience in healthcare and public policy development.
• Experience in mental health work, legislation review, health administration, and project management (preferably in a supervisory role).
• Strong understanding of health and social care sectors.
• Leadership and strategic thinking abilities.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, capable of analyzing qualitative and quantitative data to develop evidence-based recommendations.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with experience in coordination and logistics.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders.
**Key Competencies:**
• Critical thinking and sound judgment.
• Curiosity and willingness to learn and apply new skills.
• Innovation and risk management.
• Stakeholder engagement and mobilization.
• Commitment to service with heart, purpose, and dedication.

About Ministry of Health:

The Ministry of Health (MOH) aims to promote a healthy nation where people live well, long, and with peace of mind. Singapore faces complex healthcare challenges due to globalization, an aging population, and rising expectations. MOH's strategies include disease prevention, effective healthcare system design, capacity building, and managing healthcare costs. As an MOH officer, you will be involved in policy formulation and implementation to shape Singapore’s healthcare ecosystem, working with a diverse team to promote health, reduce illness, ensure access to affordable healthcare, and pursue medical excellence. Your work will significantly impact the health and lives of Singaporeans.