Senior Assistant Director, National Robotic Programme (NRP)

A*STAR - Agency for Science, Technology and Research; Singapore; On-site; SGD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

A*STAR - Agency for Science, Technology and Research in Singapore is seeking a professional to assist in the National Robotics Programme Office. This role involves developing and implementing strategies for robotics R&D, engaging with industry and stakeholders, and managing various projects and collaborations.

The ideal candidate should have at least 8 years of relevant experience with strong communication and problem-solving skills. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to the growth of Singapore's robotics industry.

Qualifications

• 8 years of relevant working experience, preferably in the public sector.
• Familiarity with the robotics industry and research is an advantage.
• Ability to work with diverse stakeholders and deliver outcomes under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Assist in developing and implementing NRPO's strategies.
• Work with industry to scope translation projects.
• Plan and lead NRP projects and initiatives.
• Manage collaborations with ecosystem stakeholders.
• Procure and manage external vendors for NRP activities.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Job description

Role Overview

The National Robotics Programme Office (NRPO) is responsible for catalysing differentiated robotics R&D capabilities at our Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs) and Research Institutes (RIs) for the benefit of our economy and society. NRPO also works to foster public‑private partnerships to ensure robotics technologies and IPs developed with public funding are relevant for industry and are commercialised into useful products, services and solutions that are adopted in Singapore and around the world.

A key role of NRPO is to bring together end‑users across different industries, robotics & automation companies, and our IHLs/RIs to identify use cases and technology gaps that public‑private partnerships can help to address. In so doing, we enhance Singapore's robotics R&D capabilities and help Singapore‑based robotics & automation companies to innovate and differentiate themselves in the market.

Another key role of NRPO is to work together with partner agencies to grow our robotics (supply‑side) industry comprising system integrators, robot vendors, software and component suppliers. A strong and vibrant robotics (supply‑side) industry with companies developing and making robotics products and solutions here for export will help to support our end‑user industries and act as vehicles for the commercialisation of technologies and IPs developed by our IHLs/RIs.

Responsibilities

• Assist Director/DD Industry & Partnerships to develop and implement strategies and initiatives to fulfil NRPO's objectives.
• Work with industry and IHL/RIs to scope translation projects.
• Assess, recommend, scope, track, review, and support translation projects for commercialisation.
• Plan and lead NRP projects and initiatives such as NRP organised and supported events, clinics, and other activities and programs (e.g. RoboCluster and RoboNexus).
• Work with multiple ecosystem stakeholders from both private and public sectors to secure collaborations, catalyse robotics capabilities for translation and commercialisation, and promote robotics locally and overseas.
• Procure and manage external vendors contracted for NRP‑related activities.
• Perform all administrative and secretarial duties including generating reports, meeting notes, management briefs, facilitating procurement and payment, and scheduling and organising meetings.
• Establish and enhance NRPO's network with robotics seasoned entrepreneurs, industry veterans and experts.
• Develop and manage our communications platforms and channels including NRPO's website, marketing materials, collaterals, and social media.
• Work closely with our corporate communications partner to develop communications plan and key messages.

Requirements

• 8 years of relevant working experience, preferably with a background in public sector.
• Familiarity with robotics industry and/or research is an added advantage.
• Good interpersonal skills to engage and work with diverse internal and external stakeholders.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral.
• Agile worker and ability to thrive under pressure to deliver outcomes.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.