Deputy Director (Tech and Data Policy)

Ministry of Transport; Singapore; On-site; SGD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A government agency in Singapore is seeking a Deputy Director for the Technology and Data Policy Department, focusing on shaping connectivity through technology and data innovation. Responsibilities include policy development, technology evaluation, and leading a team in strategic initiatives. Candidates should have a background in science and technology policy, strong analytical skills, and experience in stakeholder management. This is an excellent opportunity for leaders eager to drive change in a fast-evolving environment.

Qualifications

• Experience in science, technology and data policy formulation, preferably in the public sector.
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management experience (minimum 3 years preferred).
• Some knowledge with futures thinking and public policy formulation.
• Adaptable, resourceful, and proactive.

Responsibilities

• Assist in formulating S&T portfolio and data policies aligned with national connectivity aspirations.
• Evaluate emerging technologies and assess implications for the connectivity sector.
• Work closely with various stakeholders to align S&T priorities.
• Drive capability development plans across the MOT family.
• Supervise and mentor a team of policy officers.

Skills

Analytical skills

Strategic thinking

Stakeholder management

Leadership

Adaptability

Job description

What the role is:

Singapore is internationally renowned for our transport infrastructure and for being a global aviation and maritime hub. At the Ministry of Transport (MOT), we spearhead developments in our air, land and sea transport sectors to advance Singapore’s economic competitiveness and Singaporeans’ quality of life. We seek dynamic, analytical and committed individuals to join our able MOT team in realising our vision of a global interconnected transport hub.If you share our vision and possess the qualities we seek, do join us!

What you will be working on:

As Deputy Director of the Technology and Data Policy Department, you will play a pivotal role in shaping Singapore’s connectivity future through technology and data innovation. You will support the Director in leading strategic initiatives, developing policy frameworks, and coordinating cross-agency efforts to address emerging scientific and technological challenges and opportunities.

• Policy Development & Strategic Planning – Assist in formulating science and technology (S&T) portfolio and data policies aligned with national connectivity aspirations. Contribute to the development of the MOT Family Science and Technology Masterplan and R&D agenda by tapping on the National Research Fund. Lead horizon scanning and futures thinking exercises to anticipate long‑term shifts and emerging opportunities and threats.
• Technology Evaluation & Risk Management – Evaluate emerging technologies (e.g., AI, cybersecurity, digital platforms) and assess their implications for the connectivity sector. Support the identification and mitigation of strategic risks arising from technological adoption, including bifurcation of implementation pathways and regulatory gaps.
• Stakeholder Engagement & Coordination – Work closely with MOT HQ Divisions, Statutory Boards (SBs), and other government agencies to align S&T priorities and data management frameworks. Facilitate inter‑agency collaboration and ensure coherence across transport‑related science and technology initiatives.
• Capability Building & Transformation – Drive capability development plans to strengthen tech and data competencies across the MOT family. Champion digital transformation efforts and support change management within the MOT family.
• Team Leadership & Management – Supervise and mentor a team of S&T and data policy and planning officers. Provide guidance on project execution, policy analysis, and stakeholder engagement.

What we are looking for:

• Experience in science, technology and data policy formulation, preferably within the public sector.
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills, with the ability to navigate complex policy landscapes.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities, especially with stakeholders from different agencies, including those from research institutions and companies.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management experience (minimum 3 years preferred).
• Some knowledge with futures thinking, innovation frameworks, and public policy formulation.
• Adaptable, resourceful, and proactive in driving initiatives forward.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast‑evolving environment and is passionate about shaping the future of transport through S&T and data.

About Ministry of Transport

The Mission of Ministry of Transport is to develop Singapore's land, sea and air transport sectors so as to enhance our economic competitiveness and quality of life in a knowledge‑based economy. MOT oversees the development and regulation of the following sectors:

• Civil Aviation and Air Transport
• Maritime and Ports
• Land Transport

Besides providing an efficient and cost‑effective transportation in Singapore, it also strives to make Singapore an international civil aviation and maritime centre for the region.

The ministry sets the strategic and policy direction while operations and regulatory works are carried out by the statutory boards under its charge. There are four statutory boards which are established by Acts of Parliament: the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS), the Land Transport Authority (LTA), the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and the Public Transport Council (PTC). The ministry also oversees the operation of the Transport Safety Investigation Bureau (TSIB).