Deputy Executive Director, Institute for Adult Learning (IAL)

Who we are

The Institute for Adult Learning (IAL) is an autonomous institute of the Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS); and the MOE-designated national centre-of-excellence in adult learning. The vision of IAL is to be the national centre of excellence in learning, practice, and research for Continuing Education and Training (CET). Our mission is to raise the capabilities of CET professionals to enhance workforce learning and workplace performance.

For more information on Singapore University of Social Sciences and Institute for Adult Learning, please visit www.suss.edu.sg or www.ial.edu.sg.

About the role

Deputy Executive Director (DED) at IAL plays a crucial role in supporting the Executive Director (ED) of the Institute for Adult Learning (IAL) in IAL’s strategic growth and leadership as a national centre of excellence in Adult Learning.

The jobholder shall report directly to the ED, IAL, who is accountable to the IAL Council and President.

The successful appointee will be based in IAL Campus located at Lifelong Learning Institute at Paya Lebar.

Job Purpose

1. Strategy

Work closely with ED in charting the vision, mission and strategy for the Institute.

Assist the ED to build and establish IAL as a national centre of excellence in learning, practice, and research for Continuing Education and Training. This leadership involves both strategy and organisational development, and the ability to plan and motivate for effective execution.

2. Coalition Building

Grow and maintain strategic partnerships with key industry partners and stakeholders locally and regionally  to augment IAL’s mission in raising the capabilities of CET professionals and learning & development units to enhance workforce learning and workplace performance.

3. Capability and Capacity Building

Continue to elevate IAL’s quality of training and research, both locally and internationally standing as a centre-of-excellence in adult learning. This is to align the efforts with the national emphasis on CET, focusing on increasing training capacity over the next few years.

4. Leadership & Management

Partner with ED to provide effective strategic leadership and operational management to the Institute in the design, development and delivery of quality IAL programmes and services.

      5. Finance and Operations

          In consultation with ED, assist in managing the Institute’s physical and financial resources to maximize its contribution to the growth and success of the Institute.

      6. Human Resource Management

   Work with the management tier to plan and determine optimal and efficient staffing requirements to meet the institute’s current and future needs for organisational management and programme delivery.

      7. Communications, Public Relations and Advocacy

   Deputize the ED in representing IAL to front external key stakeholders, NGOs, media or public with the aim to advance the institute’s vision, and direct communication to brand and support the Institute’s endeavours. Support the Executive Director to take on a representation role on specific coordination working groups or forums.

Specific Responsibilities:

• Enabling workforce transformation through TAE and lifelong education.
• Curating research to apprise Training & Adult Education (TAE) policy and practice.
• Enhancing national and international standing of the Institute.
• Managing the budget and resources efficiently and effectively.
• Providing leadership and directions for consistent and efficient delivery of quality learning services.
• Fostering organisational and people excellence in the Institute.
• Ability to coach, mentor, develop and evaluate staff as well as the capacity to motivate staff and encourage good performance.
• Mature judgment and initiative, imagination and resourcefulness, and ability to provide strategic direction of the institution.

Our Ideal Candidate

• Master’s or relevant post graduate qualifications equivalent and/or.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience preferably in the fields of workforce development, learning and development, and/or adult education, with 4 years or more in a leadership role of an institute of higher learning or learning & development operation or senior management position of an organisation.
• Excellent organisation and communication skills, with ability to multi-task.
• Ability to prioritise activities/projects according to strategic direction set by IAL Council.
• Have a strong record in managing organisational change successfully in response to new imperatives.

Domain

• Experience or background in advanced adult learning approaches and methods, curriculum design and/or research preferred.
• Good working knowledge of local educational or adult learning and training landscape including government, corporate and educational institutions.

Relationships

• Excellent and proven oral and written communication skills – ability to present technical information clearly and concisely.
• Comfortable dealing with diverse stakeholders to drive results. Tactful and discreet.

Leadership qualities

Some qualities we look for in the jobholder include:

• High energy, results-oriented
• Strategist, catalyst, and good steward
• Ability to adapt and respond to changes effectively
• Implementer

Take the Leap

As a purpose-drive organisation, we empower employees at different life stages to chase their dreams.

We believe that learning is a lifelong endeavour that should be accessible to all.  We are committed to empowering you to reach your full potential through providing diverse and flexible learning opportunities, as well as job mobility.

Additionally, to support both your personal and professional growth, we offer a holistic package that includes:

• 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

A rewarding and challenging career awaits you at SUSS.

Come join us and experience meaningful work in a supportive, collaborative environment. Our team is driven by strong values and a commitment to excellence that will inspire you to grow.

We welcome all interested applicants to apply directly through our Career Portal. We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.