Temasek Foundation (TF) supports a diverse range of programmes that connects people, uplifts communities, protects our planet and advances capabilities in Singapore, Asia and beyond. Temasek Foundation's programmes, made possible through philanthropic endowments gifted by Temasek, strive towards achieving positive outcomes for individuals and communities now, and for generations to come.
The Associate Director (Strategic Communications & Public Engagement) will lead efforts to strengthen public understanding of the issues and causes that Temasek Foundation supports.
We are seeking an experienced communications and public engagement professional with strong journalistic instincts, sound news judgement and a deep understanding of how stories, ideas and public conversations shape perception and trust.
The successful candidate will work across the Foundation to identify compelling stories, frame complex issues in accessible and meaningful ways, and create opportunities for thoughtful public engagement. The role will also lead the Foundation's alumni engagement strategy, strengthening long-term relationships and fostering a connected community aligned with the Foundation's mission.
Reporting to the Head (Corporate Development), the Associate Director will work closely with the Programmes and Communications Teams, as well as internal and external partners, to advance the Foundation's strategic communications, public engagement and alumni efforts.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Strategic Communications
- Develop and lead the Foundation's strategic communications approach across its priority causes and programmes.
- Identify emerging issues, trends and stories that present opportunities for meaningful public engagement.
- Work closely with programme teams to surface compelling stories, insights and perspectives that resonate with wider audiences.
- Translate complex issues into clear, credible and accessible narratives.
- Advise senior leadership on strategic communications opportunities, public positioning and reputational considerations.
- Ensure communications are timely, thoughtful, evidence-based and aligned with the Foundation's purpose.
Public Engagement
- Conceptualise and lead public engagement initiatives that encourage informed dialogue and deepen understanding of the causes the Foundation supports.
- Identify opportunities to convene diverse voices and perspectives around issues of shared public interest.
- Build and maintain relationships with media, thought leaders, community organisations and strategic partners.
- Monitor the external environment and identify emerging issues, opportunities and partnerships that may strengthen the Foundation's contribution to important societal conversations.
- Work across teams to develop coherent and integrated engagement initiatives that support organisational priorities.
Alumni Engagement
- Develop and lead the Foundation's alumni engagement strategy.
- Strengthen long-term relationships with alumni through meaningful and sustained engagement.
- Foster an active and connected alumni community aligned with the Foundation's mission.
- Identify opportunities to deepen alumni engagement and strengthen their connection with the Foundation over time.
Leadership and Management
- Lead cross-functional initiatives involving multiple internal teams and external partners.
- Facilitate alignment across teams on strategic communications, public engagement and alumni priorities.
- Manage agencies and external service providers to deliver high-quality communications and engagement outcomes.
- Establish appropriate measures to evaluate communications, public engagement and alumni initiatives.
- Interpret results and provide strategic insights and recommendations to senior management.
- Manage budgets and resources effectively to achieve organisational objectives.
REQUIREMENTS
- Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, English, Political Science, Public Policy, Media Studies or a related discipline.
- At least 8 to 10 years of experience in journalism, current affairs, editorial leadership, strategic communications, public affairs or a related field.
- Strong journalistic instincts and news judgement, with the ability to identify issues of public interest and uncover compelling stories.
- Demonstrated ability to translate complex subjects into clear, engaging and credible narratives for diverse audiences.
- Excellent writing, editing, presentation and verbal communication skills, with an exceptional command of English.
- Good understanding of Singapore's media landscape, public discourse and the factors that shape public trust and institutional credibility.
- Experience developing and leading strategic communications or public engagement initiatives involving multiple stakeholders.
- Strong stakeholder management and relationship-building skills, with the ability to engage effectively across the public, private and people sectors.
- Experience managing agencies, creative partners or external service providers.
- Strong strategic thinking, sound judgement and the ability to navigate complex issues with sensitivity and discretion.
- Ability to work independently and lead cross-functional collaboration across multiple teams.
- Intellectually curious, externally oriented and attentive to current affairs, emerging issues and changing public sentiment.
- Motivated by the opportunity to connect people, ideas and perspectives in support of meaningful public impact.
