SIRC Manager

American Bureau of Shipping (ABS); Singapore; On-site; SGD 210,000 - 320,000; Full time

Job summary

ABS Singapore Innovation and Research Center (SIRC) seeks a visionary leader to guide R&D and external engagement. You will drive the research portfolio, collaborate with shipowners, yards, and academia, and align projects with ABS’s safety and innovation goals.

We expect 10+ years in maritime R&D, strong leadership, and a master’s in engineering. You will orchestrate cross‑functional teams, harness digitalization, AI, robotics, and multiphysics to deliver practical, impact‑driven solutions.

Qualifications

• Ten years or more in the maritime industry with leadership experience.
• Master’s degree or higher in a relevant engineering discipline.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills and strategic vision.
• Ability to identify trends and align R&D with business priorities.

Responsibilities

• Lead SIRC and manage its research and innovation portfolio.
• Build relationships with stakeholders across maritime sectors.
• Identify industry needs and strategic opportunities for ABS and clients.
• Form and execute R&D projects aligned with priorities and industry needs.
• Define project scope, partnerships, and delivery plans with cross‑functional teams.
• Ensure SIRC activities align with ABS mission and strategic direction.
• Provide leadership to technical teams and foster innovation and execution.
• Represent ABS in meetings, forums, and collaborations with partners.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder mgmt

Project management

Strategic thinking

Communication

Maritime know-how

Multiphysics simulation

Education

Master’s in Engineering

Tools

Multiphysics simulation

Robotics & AI

Job description

The ABS Singapore Innovation and Research Center (SIRC) serves as a regional hub for research, innovation, and industry collaboration. SIRC conducts and supports R&D projects across a broad range of technical areas relevant to the maritime industry, including digitalization, shipbuilding, offshore technologies, robotics, artificial intelligence, and advanced engineering methods. The center works closely with a broad range of stakeholders, including shipowners, shipyards, offshore operators, technology providers, research institutions, government agencies, and ABS technical and business teams.

This role is responsible for leading SIRC’s R&D activities and external engagement in support of ABS’s vision of pioneering safety and innovation excellence.

What You Will Do

• Lead the ABS Singapore Innovation and Research Center and manage its research and innovation portfolio
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with relevant stakeholders across the maritime and offshore sectors
• Identify industry needs, technology trends, and strategic opportunities relevant to ABS and its clients
• Form, develop, and execute R&D projects aligned with business priorities and industry needs
• Work across internal and external teams to define project scope, objectives, partnerships, and delivery plans
• Ensure SIRC activities are aligned with ABS mission, vision, and strategic direction
• Provide leadership to technical teams and foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and execution
• Represent ABS in meetings, technical forums, and collaborative engagements with industry and research partners

What You Will Need

• 10+ years of relevant work experience in the maritime industry
• Demonstrated leadership experience with a strong track record of managing teams, programs, or strategic initiatives
• Master’s degree or higher in a relevant engineering discipline
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Good understanding of technology trends and emerging demands within the maritime industry
• Demonstrated interest in innovation, research, and technology development

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong understanding of the maritime industry and its operational, technical, and commercial drivers
• Knowledge of relevant technologies, particularly digitalization in offshore, shipping, and shipbuilding
• Familiarity with robotics, artificial intelligence, and related emerging technologies
• Experience with and knowledge of multiphysics simulation is an advantage
• Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills
• Strong leadership, people management, and project management capabilities
• Ability to work effectively with a broad range of stakeholders across industry, academia, government, and internal ABS teams
• Ability to connect innovation opportunities with practical business and industry applications

Notice: This role has been opened for a future need expected within three months of the original posting date of this position. Potential candidates may not receive communication until the open headcount is confirmed.