Deputy Manager, Innovation & Enterprise (Robotics, Design, AI) - Contract

SUTD (Singapore University of Technology & Design); Singapore; On-site; SGD 72,000 - 110,000; Part time

Job summary

SUTD (Singapore University of Technology & Design) invites a proactive Deputy Manager to lead strategic partnerships in Robotics, AI and Design. You will manage industry outreach, negotiate research contracts and cultivate collaborations between SUTD staff, companies, and government agencies.

You will coordinate portfolio governance, budgets, and multi-stakeholder initiatives, serving as the key liaison for strategic accounts and research opportunities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, or Tech is preferred.
• Strong business development and account management skills.
• Experience with research agreements is a plus.
• Excellent communication and presentation abilities.
• Agile and collaborative mindset.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the full partnership lifecycle from outreach to contract negotiation.
• Bridge academia and industry to translate research opportunities.
• Build and maintain a network of industry and government partners.
• Provide governance and budgeting support for multi-stakeholder projects.

Skills

Business development

Account management

Contract negotiating

Stakeholder management

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

(This role is hired on contract basis.)

As a Deputy Manager within SUTD’s Office of Innovation & Enterprise (OIE), you won’t just be managing accounts—you will work closely with SUTD staff, companies, government agencies and researchers to bringing the best in academic excellence for industrial impact in the space of Robotics/DesignZ/AI.

The Impact You Will Make

• Strategic Growth: Drive the education and research agenda for SUTD’s sectoral focus in Robotics, AI, and Design. You will lead the full partnership lifecycle—from initial industry outreach to the negotiation of research agreements and contracts.
• Partnership Catalyst: Act as the bridge between academia and industry, identifying and seeding high-value collaborations. You will translate complex faculty research into compelling opportunities for corporate and government partners.
• Ecosystem Builder: Cultivate a robust network of industry leaders. As the primary point of contact for key accounts, you will ensure SUTD remains at the forefront of their strategic interests.
• Portfolio Governance: Oversee a diverse array of innovation projects, ensuring every milestone is achieved and budgets are optimized for maximum impact. You will provide the professional secretariat and administrative support necessary to keep complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives on track.

What We Are Looking For

We are seeking a proactive, tech-savvy professional who is as comfortable discussing STEM trends as they are negotiating business contracts.

• Educational Background: A Bachelor’s degree (specialization in Business, Engineering, or Tech is a plus).
• Tech Curiosity: A genuine fascination with STEM developments and the ability to speak the "language" of researchers and engineers.
• Business Acumen: Proven skills in business development, account management, and a foundational understanding of research agreements.
• Project Excellence: Experience in managing complex projects and budgets with a meticulous eye for detail.
• Communication Mastery: Excellent writing and presentation skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Agile Mindset: You are a self-starter who works well independently but thrives in a collaborative, team-oriented environment.