Who We Are
The Institute for Adult Learning (IAL), an autonomous institute of the Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS), is at the forefront of building capabilities and offering continuing professional development for an effective, innovative and responsive Training and Adult Education (TAE) sector.
For more information on Singapore University of Social Sciences and Institute for Adult Learning, please visit or

About The Job

The Deputy Executive Director (Dy ED), acting as a Chief Operating Officer, provides strategic, business development and operational leadership to support the growth and efficient functioning of IAL’s business operations. This is particularly as IAL’s work grows in scale and complexity with new areas of work, partnerships and revenue streams, making productivity, financial and risk management and customer service high priorities for the organisation. The Dy ED will oversee business development and marketing, management of corporate, financial and operational functions, and drive organisational effectiveness and quality service. The Dy ED also provides backend system oversight and executes high-level system approvals on behalf of the ED to ensure continuity, compliance, and governance.

What You Will Be Doing

Job Responsibilities:

Operational Leadership & Management – Provide directions and drive corporate functions, including HR, Finance, IT, Facilities, Administration and Quality Assurance, ensuring operational processes are efficient, compliant, and aligned with organisational priorities; lead the implementation of cross-divisional initiatives to improve productivity and service quality.
Business Development & Planning – Support ED in developing and executing strategic plans for business development, grow and maintain strategic partnerships with key industry partners/stakeholders and conduct forward-planning for resource allocation, personnel needs, and capability development.
Stakeholder Coordination, Engagement and Communications – Represent ED on university committees and cross-agency working groups when required, as well as in engagements with media, partners and stakeholders to ensure strong communication and alignment to advance the institute’s mission and priorities.
Works closely with ED on public relations, reputation management, drafting press releases, developing and vetting annual reports, sharing financial results at various high level leadership platforms, addressing queries at audits and fronting complaints resolution.

Job Requirements

Master's or relevant post graduate qualifications equivalent.
Minimum of 10 years of experience preferably in the fields of workforce development, learning and development, and/or adult education, with 5 years or more in a leadership role of an institute of higher learning or learning & development operation or senior management position of an organisation.
Strong knowledge of corporate functions (HR, Finance, Communications, Compliance, Procurement).
Excellent organisation and communication skills, with ability to multi-task.
Ability in making high-stakes operational decisions and approving high-level system transactions on behalf of senior leadership.
Have a strong record in managing organisational change successfully in response to new imperatives.
Operational foresight to anticipate challenges, identify opportunities, and make proactive decisions that keep IAL running smoothly while aligning with strategic goals.
Communication and stakeholder engagement.
Leadership qualities include:
- High energy, results-oriented
- Strategist, catalyst and good steward
- Ability to adapt and respond to changes effectively
- Implementer

What We Offer

At SUSS, we advocate the Spirit of Learning and pride ourselves as lifelong learners. You will gain access to various learning platforms and plenty of development opportunities to support your growth in a meaningful career!

Besides that, you will also get:

Competitive Pay Package
Hybrid Work Arrangement (Subject to Job Role)
Medical Benefits
Flex Benefits
Family Care Leaves
Volunteer Service Leaves
Wellness & Recreation Activities
Lifelong Learning Opportunities
Career Development Opportunities through Internal Job Postings and Transfers