Singapore-based Associate COO, Global Research Operations

Cambridge Centre for Advanced Research and Education in Singapore Ltd; Singapore; On-site; SGD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical insurance

Job summary

Cambridge CARES in Singapore seeks an Associate Chief Operating Officer to join the leadership team. The role supports operations, governance, and strategic development, ensuring delivery of research and innovation outcomes across partnerships with the University of Cambridge, local institutes, and international funders.

The Associate COO deputises for the COO in Singapore, leading cross-functional initiatives, managing grants, and coordinating infrastructure planning to sustain CARES' growth

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree from a recognised university in science, engineering, business, management, administration, or a related discipline.
• Experience in research administration, higher education, research institutes, government agencies, or other R&D environments with governance knowledge.
• Familiarity with Singapore's research funding landscape and ecosystem.
• Experience supporting major research grant applications, programme delivery and operations.
• Strong governance support, meeting management, and minute-taking capabilities.
• Ability to balance strategic thinking with operational delivery in a complex stakeholder environment.
• Demonstrated experience driving process improvement and operational excellence.

Responsibilities

• Operational oversight of selected COO portfolio areas such as compliance and infrastructure planning.
• Contribute to long-term strategic development including financial projections and growth initiatives.
• Lead operational projects to strengthen research delivery and governance processes.
• Provide inputs to the CARES Governing Board and act as secretary/minute-taker when needed.
• Manage relationships with government agencies, funders, and industry partners in Singapore and internationally.
• Support pre-award planning and coordination for major research bids and grants.
• Act as COO representative in Singapore during travel or leave to ensure continuity.
• Oversee the research grants portfolio and advise on facilities and infrastructure development.

Skills

Governance & board work

Strategic planning

Stakeholder management

Project leadership

Financial oversight

Communication skills

Data-driven decision making

Interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in science/engineering/business

Job description

Cambridge CARES in Singapore seeks an Associate Chief Operating Officer to join the leadership team. The role supports operations, governance, and strategic development, ensuring delivery of research and innovation outcomes across partnerships with the University of Cambridge, local institutes, and international funders.

The Associate COO deputises for the COO in Singapore, leading cross-functional initiatives, managing grants, and coordinating infrastructure planning to sustain CARES' growth