NTU Innovation and Entrepreneurship (I&E) aspires to translate NTU's inventions and creativity into tangible outcomes that will result in economic growth and enhanced quality of life for Singapore and beyond. The Global Entrepreneurship Programme (GEP) is a new flagship accelerator programme under NTU I&E set up to empower budding entrepreneurs from all over the world to translate promising research into high-impact deep tech startups. GEP will train and enable overseas entrepreneurial talents to establish innovative businesses globally. By nurturing this next generation of founders and CEOs, GEP aspires to cultivate a vibrant global network of NTU-affiliated entrepreneurs and establish NTU's entrepreneurial ecosystem presence on a global scale.

The Deputy Director (Global Entrepreneurship Programme) is responsible for spearheading this brand-new programme. He/she will oversee and drive the strategic direction, operations, and success of this programme, identifying and recruiting talented entrepreneurial participants, supporting startups and cultivating strategic partnerships with corporations, investors, and government agencies in Singapore and internationally.

Responsibilities

Strategic Planning

• Develop the strategic vision and goals of GEP and devise its long-term strategies for its growth, impact, and sustainability.
• Oversee strategic development of win-win partnerships with overseas governments, investors, universities and institutions.

Programme Operations and Management

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of GEP, including programme planning, budgeting, and resource allocation.
• Manage a team of staff, venture builders and mentors (in-house and ad-hoc), providing leadership, guidance, and support to ensure smooth programme execution.

Recruitment, Selection and Support of Entrepreneurial Talents

• Lead the selection process for participants of the GEP.
• Provide overall coordination to the training and mentorship given to participants (both structured and informal) in innovation-driven venture creation, nurturing them to grow early-stage start-up companies and supporting them in refining their business models, strategies, and growth plans.
• Facilitate access to resources, networks, and funding opportunities for GEP participants.

Community Engagement and Outreach

• Establish, manage the networks and provide resources that will enable GEP participants to successfully translate, integrate or assimilate know-how or technology into scalable businesses.
• Direct events, workshops and other networking events to engage stakeholders, foster collaboration and showcase the achievements of GEP startups.
• Deepen relationships and align stakeholders' interests in I&E to ensure continuity of activities (e.g. downstream fundraising, incubation and venture building support).

Programme Evaluation and Impact Assessment

• Develop metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the impact and effectiveness of GEP.
• Conduct regular evaluations to assess the progress of participating startups and the overall success of the programme, as well as identify areas for improvement/ optimisation in programme delivery and impact.
• Oversee stakeholder reporting for NTU Management and external partners and sponsors.

Any other ad-hoc initiatives and projects undertaken by the Office.

The successful candidate can look forward to a rewarding career at NTU with ample opportunities for growth and development.

Requirements

Educational Qualification

• A Bachelor's/Master's in the science or engineering discipline. A Ph.D. and/or MBA would be considered favourably.

Knowledge Required

• Proficiency in building, developing and managing a multi-faceted innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystem that fosters mutually beneficial relationships and sustainable growth for all stakeholders involved.
• Current knowledge of entrepreneurial trends, encompassing both the Singaporean landscape and global developments.
• A good understanding of IP and technology commercialisation process especially on how to build a business from an idea or early-stage technology.
• Familiarity of the venture capital landscape, funding mechanisms and the criteria investors use to assess startups.
• A sound knowledge of company laws and regulations in Singapore and other jurisdictions will be a plus.

Relevant Experience

• A minimum of 15 years of experience in a similar role, with demonstrated expertise in team management.
• Proven track record of successfully establishing and cultivating startups and/or innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystems in Singapore/globally. Prior experience in identifying and supporting entrepreneurs is highly desirable.

Skills & Competencies

• Ability to develop and implement a clear strategic vision.
• Excellent networking and relationship-building skills.
• Demonstrated cross-cultural competencies.
• Proficiency in programme management, including planning, budgeting, resource allocation, and monitoring and evaluation.
• Ability to think critically, solve problems, and make decisions under pressure, as well as to adapt to changing circumstances and challenges.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, especially OneDrive, Word, Excel, Teams, SharePoint and PowerPoint.

Other Personal Attributes

• Resilient and adaptable, excelling in dynamic, face-paced environments requiring multitasking abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• A supportive and empowering leader with strong people management and organisational capabilities.

Appointment may vary and will commensurate with candidate's years of working experience. We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

Hiring Institution: NTU