MENU

MENU

Donate Now
Login

Year: 2023

home

AWARE encouraged by moves to uplift families and increase fathers’ involvement in parenting, but notes exclusion of single parents

This post was originally published as a press release on 15 February 2023.

Amid a suite of announcements in the 2023 National Budget aimed at boosting support for families and working parents, gender-equality organisation AWARE found cause for optimism. Yet the group also identified places where the Government’s vision, of a “Singapore Made for Families”, fell short of full inclusivity.

Responding to the “Moving Forward in a New Era” Budget announcement, delivered by Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on 14 February, AWARE Executive Director Corinna Lim commended a number of progressive family-oriented policy changes. “Initiatives to support families inevitably provide support for women, as the domestic sphere is still viewed as ‘women’s domain,’” she noted. “We were pleased to see attempts to break that stereotype and address other historical shortcomings.”

The doubling of paternity leave entitlements from two to four weeks—which continues a promising trend to increase men’s domestic participation and thus dismantle traditional gender roles—was heartily cheered on by AWARE. The group also praised the doubling of unpaid infant care leave for all parents with Singaporean children under two.

“A decade after Singapore first introduced paternity leave, we’re glad to see the leave quantum increased to a full month,” said Ms Lim. “That said, the amount of leave available to fathers now still falls short of the full 16 weeks available to mothers, which signals that the latter should be primarily responsible for childcare. This despite the fact that, as DPM Wong noted, paternal involvement carries a wealth of benefits to all members of a family, and indeed to society.”

AWARE has previously recommended the full equalisation of paternity and maternity leave.

Secondly, AWARE welcomed the announcement of additional financial support for new parents under the enhanced Baby Bonus Scheme: larger cash gifts (increased by $3,000 per child), more Government contributions to the Child Development Account (in the form of the enhanced First Step Grant and $1,000 in co-matching caps per child) and the extension of the Baby Support Grant.

The group also commended the change to the Working Mother’s Child Relief (WMCR), from a percentage of mothers’ earned income to a fixed dollar amount. While some higher-income mothers will receive a smaller relief sum, WMCR will provide proportionately more support for the low-income women most in need of assistance, and thereby be more progressive.

Ms Lim pointed out, however, that “it is not clear if this change would reduce the total amount of relief available to mothers via the WMCR. We hope that the Government will clarify this point and confirm that this was not the intention or expected effect of the change.”

AWARE noted furthermore that the aforementioned benefits do not support all parents equally: Unwed single parents are only eligible for those under the Child Development Account, not the other benefits under Baby Bonus or WMCR.* Considering that single parents are likely to be the sole breadwinners of their households, not to mention primary providers of care for their children, AWARE has advocated for their inclusion in such cash gifts and relief schemes.

“We celebrate alongside the mothers, particularly low-income mothers, who stand to benefit from these upgraded schemes, and whose child-rearing costs will be offset,” said Ms Lim. “Yet it is impossible to celebrate without thinking of those for whom the news was meaningless—or, worse, a sharp reminder of the prejudice and marginalisation they continue to face, as unwed single mothers. We hoped that the Budget would put a dent in the suite of policies that unreasonably penalise vulnerable single-parent families in Singapore, but it was not the case.”

Lastly, with low-income families facing the pressure of inflation and pandemic-related challenges, AWARE applauded measures to tighten the social safety net, such as the $300 million top-up to the ComCare Endowment Fund, the upscaling of KidSTART and the continued commitment to provide subsidised childcare. AWARE had previously recommended that childcare be made free for all low-income families in Singapore.

“When families’ social mobility is constrained, women and children often bear the brunt,” observed Ms Lim. “While there is room to go further, we are happy to see sustained efforts to equalise the playing field for these children at the earliest stages of their lives.”

Read AWARE’s previous Budget recommendations and responses here.

* Correction: An earlier version of this press release implied that unwed single mothers were eligible for WMCR in addition to CDA, but they are not.

18 March 2023: Anti-Racist Allyship Workshop with Sharvesh L (Online, Growing Up Indian)

Important note: This workshop is part of AWARE’s Growing Up Indian initiative to foreground the voices of Indian women in Singapore. The allyship workshop is intended primarily for non-Indians living in Singapore who wish to become better allies to the Indian community. If you have questions about this, please email media@aware.org.sg.

********

It’s an unpleasant feeling, but one that, in all likelihood, most of us are familiar with: the dawning realisation that we enjoy privilege that others around us do not. That this privilege—whether of race, gender, sexual orientation, class or more—confers certain unearned benefits onto us, which we may have taken for granted all our lives. That even if we wanted to, there is little we could do to discard or otherwise neutralise our own privilege.

These feelings may rise to the surface with special intensity when we witness discrimination and violence happening to others. We might feel rattled, frustrated, helpless. We might feel a sense of shame that, as the bearers of relative power in a given situation, we have not done enough to prevent oppression and hurt.

What do we do with this uncomfortable knowledge? The answer lies not in ignoring our privilege, or throwing our hands up in despair—it lies in allyship. Positive and productive actions that genuinely benefit people, communities and initiatives that need support. But what does allyship really entail? How can we incorporate an intersectional perspective—the understanding that multiple systems of oppression exist, are interconnected and multifaceted, and must be challenged in multiple ways—into our allyship? How meaningful can allyship be if allies continue to participate in institutions predicated on racism and racialisation? And how do we avoid falling into the all-too-common traps of condescension, appropriation or saviourism?

Join us over Zoom on 18 March for an intersectional allyship workshop, with a central focus on anti-racist allyship. Informed in part by readings of AWARE anthologies Growing Up Perempuan and What We Inherit: Growing Up Indian, this two-hour online session will feature an introductory presentation by facilitator Sharvesh Leatchmanan (Minority Voices Singapore), a community sharing and a breakout room discussion. Whether you’re new to the concept of allyship, or you want to refine and expand your existing practice, we welcome you into this space for questions and personal stories that may be difficult to express.

We want our workshops to be accessible to everyone, and require your generous contributions to make programmes like this possible. While you are welcome to give any amount you wish, we suggest a minimum of $15 per person. No tax deduction will be provided. Note that Eventbrite requires a minimum contribution of $1. If for financial reasons you require a waiver of this minimum contribution, please email media@aware.org.sg.

We are unable to accommodate transfers and cancellations if participants are unable to attend after payment has been made.

REGISTER NOW

 

About the Facilitator

Sharvesh Leatchmanan (they/them) is an MA student in the Department of Gender, Sexuality & Women’s Studies at Simon Fraser University, where they serve as the Knowledge Mobilization Officer at SFPIRG, a student resource centre dedicated to social and environmental justice. At SFPIRG, they have facilitated intersectional discussions on ecological grief, decolonising mindfulness, anti-racism within healthcare systems and much more, with a specific focus on race and racialisation. Sharvesh is the co-founder of Minority Voices Singapore, a social media platform that raises awareness about the ongoing racism and discrimination ethnic minority communities face in the city-state. With a BA (Hons) degree in Guidance & Counselling, and a foundational background in the performing arts, Sharvesh is motivated by the power of stories and storytelling.

[POSITION FILLED] Consultant, Business Development and Sales, Catalyse

We are no longer accepting applicants for this role.

Catalyse is the corporate consulting, training and advisory business unit of AWARE—Singapore’s leading gender equality advocacy group, dedicated to removing gender-based barriers through research, advocacy, education and support services. Whilst the main focus remains on gender equality, Catalyse’s work is expanded to include the wider spectrum of Diversity and Inclusion including culture, race, ethnicity and ability. Catalyse’s clients include local and multinational companies, public sector organisations and Institutes of Higher Learning. 

All profits generated by Catalyse go towards funding the charitable activities of AWARE.

Position: Consultant, Business Development and Sales
Commitment: Full time
Salary range: $5,800 – $7,300
Starting date: Immediate

Job Description

The Consultant, Business Development and Sales (CBD) will lead the sales and marketing activities of Catalyse. The Consultant will work closely with the Managing Director of Catalyse and focus on:

  • developing client relationships to generate new leads
  • closing deals that come through the enquiry pipeline
  • enhancing Catalyse’s revenue
  • building on Catalyse’s brand visibility

The ideal candidate will have at least seven years of sales experience, with a proven sales track record. They should have a keen interest in promoting diverse and inclusive workplaces and be comfortable selling to and working with larger/global companies.

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop and maintain a deep understanding of Catalyse’s services
  • Convert leads into sales opportunities and manage the sales process from start to finish
  • Achieve quarterly and annual sales targets
  • Oversee website and social media platform updates and content writing for Catalyse
  • Fine-tune sales materials, sales processes to facilitate sales processes
  • Work closely with the team to ensure happy client experience
  • Participate in ideating for new products
  • Develop long-term relationships with clients and serve as a trusted advisor
  • Develop and implement strategies to increase overall sales performance
  • Stay up-to-date on industry trends and competitor activity

Requirements

  • Passion for promoting diversity, inclusion and equality
  • At least seven years professional sales experience, preferably in professional services field
  • Proven track record of achieving or exceeding sales targets
  • Excellent communication, presentation, problem-solving and negotiation skills
  • Strong time-management and organisational skills
  • Comfortable working in a multicultural and diverse team
  • High level of client and stakeholder management skills
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-moving environment

You must read and acknowledge our Privacy Statement here.

Please note that due to the large number of applications, only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for an interview.

18 February 2023: Anti-Racist Allyship Workshop with Sharvesh L (Growing Up Indian)

Important note: This workshop is part of AWARE’s Growing Up Indian initiative to foreground the voices of Indian women in Singapore. The allyship workshop is intended primarily for non-Indians living in Singapore who wish to become better allies to the Indian community. If you have questions about this, please email media@aware.org.sg.

********

It’s an unpleasant feeling, but one that, in all likelihood, most of us are familiar with: the dawning realisation that we enjoy privilege that others around us do not. That this privilege—whether of race, gender, sexual orientation, class or more—confers certain unearned benefits onto us, which we may have taken for granted all our lives. That even if we wanted to, there is little we could do to discard or otherwise neutralise our own privilege.

These feelings may rise to the surface with special intensity when we witness discrimination and violence happening to others. We might feel rattled, frustrated, helpless. We might feel a sense of shame that, as the bearers of relative power in a given situation, we have not done enough to prevent oppression and hurt.

What do we do with this uncomfortable knowledge? The answer lies not in ignoring our privilege, or throwing our hands up in despair—it lies in allyship. Positive and productive actions that genuinely benefit people, communities and initiatives that need support. But what does allyship really entail? How can we incorporate an intersectional perspective—the understanding that multiple systems of oppression exist, are interconnected and multifaceted, and must be challenged in multiple ways—into our allyship? How meaningful can allyship be if allies continue to participate in institutions predicated on racism and racialisation? And how do we avoid falling into the all-too-common traps of condescension, appropriation or saviourism?

Join us on 18 February for an intersectional allyship workshop, with a central focus on anti-racist allyship. Informed in part by readings of AWARE anthologies Growing Up Perempuan and What We Inherit: Growing Up Indian, this two-hour session will feature an introductory presentation by facilitator Sharvesh Leatchmanan (Minority Voices Singapore), a community sharing and a small-group discussion. Whether you’re new to the concept of allyship, or you want to refine and expand your existing practice, we welcome you into this space for questions and personal stories that may be difficult to express.

Programme:

  • 3pm – Introductions and ground rules
  • 3.10pm – “Decoding Allyship and Intersectionality” presentation
  • 3.40pm – Community sharing and discussion
  • 4.10pm – Small group discussions
  • 4.40pm – Facilitator sharing and wrap-up

We want our workshops to be accessible to everyone, and require your generous contributions to make programmes like this possible. While you are welcome to give any amount you wish, we suggest a minimum of $15 per person. No tax deduction will be provided. Note that Eventbrite requires a minimum contribution of $1. If for financial reasons you require a waiver of this minimum contribution, please email media@aware.org.sg.

We are unable to accommodate transfers and cancellations if participants are unable to attend after payment has been made.

REGISTER NOW

If you cannot make it on 18 February, or feel more comfortable attending an online workshop, consider attending our 18 March edition, which will be held over Zoom.

 

About the Facilitator

Sharvesh Leatchmanan (they/them) is an MA student in the Department of Gender, Sexuality & Women’s Studies at Simon Fraser University, where they serve as the Knowledge Mobilization Officer at SFPIRG, a student resource centre dedicated to social and environmental justice. At SFPIRG, they have facilitated intersectional discussions on ecological grief, decolonising mindfulness, anti-racism within healthcare systems and much more, with a specific focus on race and racialisation. Sharvesh is the co-founder of Minority Voices Singapore, a social media platform that raises awareness about the ongoing racism and discrimination ethnic minority communities face in the city-state. With a BA (Hons) degree in Guidance & Counselling, and a foundational background in the performing arts, Sharvesh is motivated by the power of stories and storytelling.

 

Will I be able to find a caregiver like Ah Mi when I get old?

This op-ed was originally published in The Straits Times on 18 January 2023.

Mum died last month.

I mourn her passing but I am also thankful she is no longer in pain. At a frail 93, her quality of life had not been good the past few years.

Today, there is a strange bittersweet void in my life. As the unmarried daughter, much of my time was devoted to mum’s care, managing her medical appointments, ensuring there was enough Fresubin in the house, keeping track of her prescriptions, and a host of other seemingly small but essential matters – all while holding down a full-time job.

As the years of caregiving wore on, I felt exhausted, sometimes resentful and many times on the verge of breaking down. Most times, I felt very alone.

But I wasn’t alone.

I had the privilege of being able to afford a caregiver. Like many women in Singapore – and indeed, around the world – we have relied on other women to help manage our families. Without paid domestic helpers and caregivers, we would be barely functional as a nation.

The future of caregiving

My mother’s last years have made me think seriously about my future caregiving needs.

While the Government is getting the hardware in place by planning retirement homes, setting up eldercare centres and repurposing flats, something also needs to be done about the software, especially if people are being encouraged to age in place.

People need people. And today, we are heavily reliant on foreign workers to staff not only our homes, but also our healthcare sector. When mum was in and out of hospital, I saw first-hand how true this was.

We are also heavily reliant on luck. Everyone knows hiring the right helper or caregiver is a game of chance. Similarly, for the migrant domestic worker (MDW), finding the right employer is an intimidating and uncertain process.

The luck of the draw

When mum passed, I wanted to personally make sure Ah Mi went to a good family that would value her. Instead of relying on agencies, I actively asked around my network of friends. And so, she ended up with a friend’s aunt desperately looking for someone to care for her father whose Parkinson’s had taken a turn for the worse. She had been at her wit’s end because agencies had not been able to help, as demand for caregivers continue to outstrip supply.

Again, luck played a good hand, for Ah Mi and my friend’s aunt.

But I don’t want to gamble on my future. Nor should workers from other countries be made to gamble with theirs when they choose to work in our country and our homes.

So, it is time to put a greater value on caregiving.

By 2030, one in four Singaporeans will be over 65. And the Asia-Pacific population is ageing faster than any other region in the world due to lower fertility and mortality rates, as well as longer life expectancy. According to the United Nations, there are now 630 million Asians aged 60 years or over, representing 60 per cent of the world’s older people. By 2050, their number is projected to increase to 1.3 billion, with the majority being women.

Will I be able to find an Ah Mi when I get old, someone trained properly to look after the elderly? Equally important, can we do better to empower women like Ah Mi who leave behind their own families to look after ours? Would they be able to get, besides a salary, something long term and useful in return for their labour?

Everyone in the chain is dependent on the luck of the draw, which also includes a scrupulous and ethical agency. All these stories can be found in Aware’s 2020 research report, Neither Family Nor Employee, which features in-depth interviews with 25 MDWs, four employment agencies, seven employers and five formal providers of eldercare training. Twenty per cent of the MDWs reported that the needs of their care recipients were different from what had been described by the agents and/or employers during the hiring stage. Of the 21 respondents who had interviews with their employers prior to hiring, 67 per cent were not asked about previous training and 62 per cent were not asked about their previous work experience in caregiving.

I lucked out with mum’s final caregiver. Sri Ayuni – or Ah Mi as she asked to be called – had spent six years in a nursing home in Taiwan and spoke fluent Mandarin. While she was mum’s caregiver, she also indirectly cared for me by allowing me breathing space to be myself, to be by myself.

I had hired her in the midst of Covid-19 restrictions when she was still in Indonesia. We met on a Zoom call, taken hurriedly before a work lunch appointment in Tanjong Pagar. I had Zoomed other potential caregivers but took a chance on Ah Mi because of her cheerful demeanour and kind eyes.

My gamble paid off. Not only did she know how to feed, bathe and move mum, she also knew how to engage mum in vocal exercises to strengthen her throat muscles for easier swallowing. When mum was in hospital, even the nurses were impressed. She was also incredibly patient, caring and responsible.

Professionalising caregiving

Perhaps, one way is to give them official and professional recognition from a reputable institution that can raise their market value and set them up for a brighter future.

Currently, there are individual caregiving training programmes offered by different service providers under the Agency for Integrated Care. These are short lessons targeted at specific needs – for example, learning how to care for someone with diabetes or dementia. And they are aimed at employers who may or may not see the need to upgrade the skills of their helpers. However, private caregiving agencies like Homage also offer courses and training geared at people who want to become professional caregivers.

It would be great to leverage these existing efforts to come up with a certified, comprehensive and holistic curriculum that covers practical skills, as well as larger aspects of caregiving, including understanding the physiology and demands of ageing.

I am confident that Singapore, which prides itself on being an education hub, can easily establish a gold-standard training centre for caregiving.

We could offer scholarships to women and men in the region who, in return, can serve their bond by working as caregivers in Singapore homes – or even hospitals – for a specified period.

This could ensure a steady pipeline of trained caregivers for Singapore; it also sets up an ecosystem in the region where caregiving is recognised and valued. Caregivers, armed with proper and recognised certifications, can move up in their careers, not only in Singapore but also back in their home countries, and elsewhere in the region and the world. We could start the rising tide that lifts all boats.

It takes a village

Of course, there are other big issues to grapple with as our population ages, including a shortage of hospital beds and rising medical costs. But let us not forget the migrant domestic workers and caregivers in our midst who already play a vital role in our homes. Our lives have long been intertwined, as a regional village of surrogate mothers and sisters and daughters.

In planning for our future, we should also include theirs.

Ong Soh Chin is the president of Aware, Singapore’s leading women’s rights and gender equality advocacy group, which is a member of the Singapore Alliance for Women in Ageing.

26 April 2023: Sexual Assault First Responder Training (Online Session)

“Are you sure that happened? Why didn’t you fight back? You should have known better.” These are some common responses survivors of sexual assault have heard, which may further their feelings of doubt, guilt and shame.

It is not always easy for survivors to tell someone about what happened; in fact, for some survivors, it can be especially daunting. So the way their loved ones respond becomes pivotal in their journey of recovery. First response that is sensitive to a survivor’s needs and choices is necessary in preventing re-victimisation.

This Sexual Assault First Responder Training helps familiarise participants with trauma reactions and symptoms to better contribute to a survivor’s well-being. In this workshop, we will share more on the following:

  • Definition of sexual assault and harassment
  • Recognising Singapore’s legal framework
  • Understanding consent
  • Understanding the impact of sexual assault and trauma on survivors
  • Role of a first responder
  • Providing support to survivors of sexual assault
  • Resources available for help
  • Key skills such as ensuring safety, active listening and empathy

We want this workshop to be accessible to everyone, and require your generous contribution to keep it running. While you are welcome to give any amount you wish, we suggest a minimum of $30 per person. No tax deduction will be provided. Note that Eventbrite requires a minimum contribution of $1. If for financial reasons you require a waiver of this minimum contribution, please email gec@aware.org.sg.

Note as well that we are unable to accommodate transfers and cancellations if participants are unable to attend after payment has been made.

Persons of all genders and nationalities are more than welcome to attend.

We strongly request that all participants commit to the full duration of the 3-hour workshop (there are breaks!) to ensure that everyone will get the opportunity to engage in interactive discussions and learn useful skills.

Date: Wednesday, 26 April 2023

Time: 4 – 7PM

Venue: Online (Via Zoom). Please note this workshop will be online only (Singapore time). Participants will be emailed the Zoom link shortly before the session date. As a commitment to this training we will be asking all participants to turn on their video throughout the session.

Entry Fee: This event is contribute-what-you-can. Suggested contribution of $30 per person.

Register here!

30 March 2023: Sexual Assault First Responder Training (Online Session)

“Are you sure that happened? Why didn’t you fight back? You should have known better.” These are some common responses survivors of sexual assault have heard, which may further their feelings of doubt, guilt and shame.

It is not always easy for survivors to tell someone about what happened; in fact, for some survivors, it can be especially daunting. So the way their loved ones respond becomes pivotal in their journey of recovery. First response that is sensitive to a survivor’s needs and choices is necessary in preventing re-victimisation.

This Sexual Assault First Responder Training helps familiarise participants with trauma reactions and symptoms to better contribute to a survivor’s well-being. In this workshop, we will share more on the following:

  • Definition of sexual assault and harassment
  • Recognising Singapore’s legal framework
  • Understanding consent
  • Understanding the impact of sexual assault and trauma on survivors
  • Role of a first responder
  • Providing support to survivors of sexual assault
  • Resources available for help
  • Key skills such as ensuring safety, active listening and empathy

We want this workshop to be accessible to everyone, and require your generous contribution to keep it running. While you are welcome to give any amount you wish, we suggest a minimum of $30 per person. No tax deduction will be provided. Note that Eventbrite requires a minimum contribution of $1. If for financial reasons you require a waiver of this minimum contribution, please email gec@aware.org.sg.

Note as well that we are unable to accommodate transfers and cancellations if participants are unable to attend after payment has been made.

Persons of all genders and nationalities are more than welcome to attend.

We strongly request that all participants commit to the full duration of the 3-hour workshop (there are breaks!) to ensure that everyone will get the opportunity to engage in interactive discussions and learn useful skills.

Date: Thursday, 30 March 2023

Time: 6 – 9PM

Venue: Online (Via Zoom). Please note this workshop will be online only (Singapore time). Participants will be emailed the Zoom link shortly before the session date. As a commitment to this training we will be asking all participants to turn on their video throughout the session.

Entry Fee: This event is contribute-what-you-can. Suggested contribution of $30 per person.

Register here!

22 February 2023: Sexual Assault First Responder Training (Online Session)

“Are you sure that happened? Why didn’t you fight back? You should have known better.” These are some common responses survivors of sexual assault have heard, which may further their feelings of doubt, guilt and shame.

It is not always easy for survivors to tell someone about what happened; in fact, for some survivors, it can be especially daunting. So the way their loved ones respond becomes pivotal in their journey of recovery. First response that is sensitive to a survivor’s needs and choices is necessary in preventing re-victimisation.

This Sexual Assault First Responder Training helps familiarise participants with trauma reactions and symptoms to better contribute to a survivor’s well-being. In this workshop, we will share more on the following:

  • Definition of sexual assault and harassment
  • Recognising Singapore’s legal framework
  • Understanding consent
  • Understanding the impact of sexual assault and trauma on survivors
  • Role of a first responder
  • Providing support to survivors of sexual assault
  • Resources available for help
  • Key skills such as ensuring safety, active listening and empathy

We want this workshop to be accessible to everyone, and require your generous contribution to keep it running. While you are welcome to give any amount you wish, we suggest a minimum of $30 per person. No tax deduction will be provided. Note that Eventbrite requires a minimum contribution of $1. If for financial reasons you require a waiver of this minimum contribution, please email gec@aware.org.sg.

Note as well that we are unable to accommodate transfers and cancellations if participants are unable to attend after payment has been made.

Persons of all genders and nationalities are more than welcome to attend.

We strongly request that all participants commit to the full duration of the 3-hour workshop (there are breaks!) to ensure that everyone will get the opportunity to engage in interactive discussions and learn useful skills.

Date: Wednesday, 22 February 2022

Time: 4 – 7PM

Venue: Online (Via Zoom). Please note this workshop will be online only (Singapore time). Participants will be emailed the Zoom link shortly before the session date. As a commitment to this training we will be asking all participants to turn on their video throughout the session.

Entry Fee: This event is contribute-what-you-can. Suggested contribution of $30 per person.

Register here!

[POSITION FILLED] Managing Director and Consulting Principal, Catalyse

We are no longer accepting applicants for this role.

We are looking for a passionate, highly driven individual to lead and shape Catalyse in its next stage of growth.

Catalyse is a corporate advisory, consulting and training business unit within AWARE—Singapore’s leading gender equality advocacy group, dedicated to removing gender-based barriers through research, advocacy, education and support services. Catalyse’s mission is to advise and support clients in building diverse and inclusive workplaces where employees feel safe, are treated with respect and dignity, and have the opportunity to achieve their potential.

Its approach is based on and benefits from a unique insight into diversity issues in Asia. Clients include local and multinational companies, public sector and government organisations, and institutes of higher learning.

Position: Managing Director and Consulting Principal
Commitment: Full-time, permanent
Salary range: SGD$8,500 – 10,000
Starting date: Immediate

Job Description

Reporting to the Executive Director of AWARE, the Managing Director and Consulting Principal (MDCP) of Catalyse has overall strategic and operational responsibility for the direction and execution of Catalyse’s programmes, staff and volunteers.

The MDCP operates in a broad role with key commercial targets in place, holding ultimate accountability for strategy, thought leadership, product development and sales, as well as consulting execution and delivery.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead and sustainably grow Catalyse in a way that is consistent with the values of diversity and inclusion, gender equality and respect for others.
  • Formulate and oversee implementation of Catalyse business plans, budgets and programmes, ensuring their quality and effectiveness in meeting strategic goals and financial targets.
  • Develop and manage productive client relationships to grow a portfolio of meaningful and successful engagements.
  • Strengthen and enhance the Catalyse brand through effective engagement with key influencers and the media.
  • Provide thought leadership and guide the development of content to effectively equip clients to meet diversity, equity and inclusion goals.
  • Lead the team of Catalyse employees and consultants in the development and delivery of products and services, ensuring a positive, high-performance work culture and sustainable talent pool.
  • Engage and work with the Catalyse Board Committee (that serves a governance and advisory function) by providing timely and accurate information and insights.
  • Liaise with AWARE staff to communicate Catalyse’s goals and collaborate with AWARE’s senior executives on strategies to support the success of both AWARE and the company.
  • Uphold the highest ethical standards as well as ensure organisational accountability and compliance with the law.

Requirements

  • Minimum 15 years’ work experience in areas such as consulting, training and facilitation, D&I (Diversity & Inclusion), organisational development, change management and/or human resource management, with significant experience leading professional teams.
  • Knowledge and expertise in relevant areas such as developing policies, strategies and programmes to support diverse and inclusive work cultures, labour law and policies.
  • Managing a profitable enterprise in a way that is consistent with AWARE’s mission, vision and values of diversity and inclusion, gender equality and respect for others.
  • Passion for justice, equity, diversity and inclusion work, understanding of organisational behaviour and diversity and inclusion issues in a corporate environment.
  • A strong entrepreneurial spirit and the ability to develop new business and retain clients.
  • Ability to attract, develop and retain the right staff in the right roles.

The following attributes will be critical for success in this role:

  • Personal credibility and connections with key stakeholder groups
  • Ability to work effectively and diplomatically with a wide range of people across organisational levels in both private and public sectors.
  • Outstanding communication, facilitation, training and writing skills with the ability to adapt language and style to suit the audience and occasion.
  • A collaborative mindset and positive outlook with a drive for results.
  • Strong organisational skills and technological savvy to ensure effective information management, efficient processes and measurable outcomes.

You must read and acknowledge our Privacy Statement here.

Please note that due to the large number of applications, only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for an interview. For any queries