Group Director (Academic Development)

National Institute of Early Childhood Development; Singapore; Hybrid; SGD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent education institute in Singapore is seeking an experienced leader to drive academic strategy and high-quality training for early childhood educators. The role involves leading programme development, faculty growth, and engaging with stakeholders. The ideal candidate has extensive leadership experience and a Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education. This position offers a two-year contract with flexible hybrid work arrangements.

Benefits

Flexible hybrid work arrangement

Learning & professional development

Qualifications

• Extensive leadership experience in the education field.
• Strong track record in developing innovative and evidence-based programmes.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead NIEC’s academic strategy and operations.
• Develop and implement innovative training programmes.
• Build faculty capability through mentorship and development.

Skills

Leadership experience

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Problem-solving skills

Education

Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education or related field

Job description

National Institute of Early Childhood Development – Jurong Town

The incumbent will lead NIEC’s academic strategy and operations to ensure the delivery of high-quality, evidence-based training for early childhood educators. The role drives curriculum innovation, faculty development, and academic services across campuses and HQ divisions, aligning academic initiatives with NIEC’s mission. It also fosters sectoral relevance through research, policy engagement, and strategic partnerships.

Job Responsibilities

1. Strategic Academic Leadership
   • Provide vision and direction for NIEC’s academic development, aligning programmes and initiatives with institutional goals and national priorities.
   • Ensure NIEC’s positioning as the national training institute for early childhood educators and maintain strategic coherence across campuses and divisions, and ensure cohesiveness and synergy with the Corporate Development team.
2. Programme Development & Delivery
   • Lead the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of innovative, evidence-based training programmes for early childhood educators.
   • Enhance the quality, relevance, and effectiveness of educator training and improve student (teacher-trainee) outcomes.
3. Faculty & Staff Development
   • Build faculty capability through mentorship, professional development, and fostering a collaborative academic culture.
   • Ensure a high-performing academic team that upholds professional standards and contributes to NIEC’s mission.
4. Stakeholder Engagement & Sectoral Advocacy
   • Establish and maintain partnerships with local and international stakeholders, and represent NIEC in forums and policy discussions.
   • Ensure NIEC’s programmes remain responsive to sectoral needs and contribute to shaping early childhood education policy and practice.
5. Academic Governance & Quality Assurance
   • Oversee academic policies, regulatory compliance, and quality assurance frameworks across campuses and divisions.
   • Maintain high academic and professional standards and ensure consistency in programme delivery.

Job Requirements

• Extensive leadership experience in leading teams, involvement in policy work or training in the education field, preferably with a Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education, Education or a related field.
• At least 10 years of experience in leadership roles preferably in the field of training or education/early education, with a strong track record of developing and implementing innovative and evidence-based programmes and initiatives.
• Proven track record in developing evidence-based programmes.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to think strategically and to identify and address emerging issues and trends in the field of education, and preferably early childhood education.
• Demonstrated experience in leading and managing teams, and in fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and collaborate with a wide range of stakeholders.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and dynamic environment, with a commitment to excellence and a passion for improving the lives of young children and their families.

Flexible Hybrid Work Arrangement

Learning & Professional Development

Note: All new hires will be offered a two-year contract in the first instance. Contract renewal and emplacement on permanent appointment will be subject to continuous good performance.

We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.