Executive Director

Executive Director

Job Description:

UN Global Compact Network Singapore (UNGCNS) is the national chapter of the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative. As a platform for action and influence, UNGCNS mobilises the private sector to integrate sustainability into strategy and operations, aligned with universal principles on human rights, labour, environment, and anti-corruption. The mission is to support businesses in taking meaningful action to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

At a time of accelerating climate, social and economic challenges, the need for bold, collaborative leadership has never been greater. UNGCNS plays a vital role in positioning Singapore as a regional hub for sustainable business. By catalysing partnerships, convening diverse stakeholders, and driving practical outcomes, the organisation works to reshape how business is done.

UNGCNS is seeking a seasoned and dynamic leader to serve as its Executive Director (ED). This is a pivotal leadership role, responsible for delivering the organisation’s strategy, overseeing programmes and operations, building partnerships, and strengthening its visibility and influence in Singapore and the region. The Executive Director will work closely with the Management Committee and core team to shape the organisation’s direction, while ensuring effective governance, financial management, and mission delivery.


Responsibilities:

Deliver UNGCNS Mission and Strategy

  • Lead the core team, ensuring they have the right skills, competency, and tools needed to deliver the organisational mission through strategic planning, programmes, events and community outreach
  • Oversee implementation of UNGCNS’ programmes and team management, aligned with the mission
  • Serve as UNGCNS’ primary spokesperson to the constituents, the media and the public
  • Enhance the UNGCNS brand and reputation through community presence and collaboration with professional, civic, and private organisations
  • Uphold the highest standards of business conduct, aligned with UNGCNS sustainability values

Governance and Financial Performance

  • Ensure fiscal integrity, including cost management, budgeting, and financial reporting
  • Support the UNGCNS President in governance of the Management Committee and its Sub-committees
  • Lead fiscal management, ensuring maximum resource utilisation, and maintaining a positive financial position
  • Oversee fundraising and programme development aligned with strategic priorities
  • Ensure compliance with all government regulations, including those set by the Commissioner of Charities, the Registry of Societies and the UNGC standards
  • Set and deliver annual goals and KPIs aligned with the organisation’s strategy

Operations and Culture

  • Align operational execution with strategic objectives, fostering a positive and high-performing team culture
  • Oversee day-to-day operations and implement effective administrative and HR policies
  • Ensure successful programme execution that supports the organisation’s mission

Partnerships and External Engagement

  • Establish and maintain relationships with relevant government ministries and agencies to support UNGCNS’ Mission and activities
  • Establish and maintain relationships with key members and accounts, engaging regularly with key corporate organisations
  • Develop new partnerships to grow membership, funding, and strategic influence

Support for the Management Committee

  • Collaborate with the President and Committee to advance the mission, providing accurate and timely information for sound decision-making

The ED will play a pivotal role in shaping and executing the organisation’s strategic direction, strengthening external partnerships and positioning. UNGCNS is a leading voice in the sustainability landscape, locally and regionally.

Key Requirements:

  • A minimum of 8 years of leadership experience with a proven ability to set direction, lead teams and deliver impact
  • A deep understanding of sustainability and the SDG’s, especially in the context of Southeast Asia and Singapore’s evolving role as a sustainability hub
  • Proven track record of initiating and scaling multi-stakeholder partnerships and programs that have delivered tangible outcomes
  • Strong storytelling, public speaking and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to inspire action at the c-suite and grassroots levels alike
  • Skilled negotiator with a track record of securing results within allocated budgets. Experience with non-profit fundraising and sponsorship is highly beneficial
  • Organised and meticulous with project management skills. Able to anticipate risks and prepare contingencies when planning
  • Able to manage small teams within a small team dynamic and comfortable operating in fast-paced environments

If interested in applying for this role or discussing the opportunity in more detail, please contact our search partners at Acre on Greg.Brittian@acre.com or Aysen.Naylor@acre.com

Volunteer – Strategic Initiatives

Volunteer – Strategic Initiatives

Job Description:

We are searching for a reliable and trustworthy volunteer to join our organization. The volunteer’s responsibilities include completing tasks assigned by the supervisor, upholding the organization’s values, and maintaining a high degree of professionalism with all stakeholders. You should arrive on time, follow instructions, and improve the overall operations of the organization.
To be successful as a volunteer, you should demonstrate active listening and problem-solving skills. Outstanding volunteers should be diligent, meticulous, and take pride in their work.


Responsibilities:

  • Assist with vendor outreach to collect images, testimonials, etc.
  • Answer incoming calls and assist in answering inquiries about Strategic Initiatives, Events and Programmes.
  • Support the administration for events and carry out follow-up tasks.
  • Assist with tasks in the areas of programme marketing, event management, sponsorship and lo-gistics as needed.
  • Assist with drafting surveys and collecting and analysing responses.
  • Help to conduct simple desktop research to support programmes for future events.
  • Other tasks as assigned.

Volunteer Requirements:

  • Completion of relevant on-boarding.
  • A willingness to learn and work as part of a team.
  • A high degree of professionalism and the ability to follow instructions.
  • Respect and diligence.
  • Good time management and reliable completion of tasks.
  • A personable manner.

Marketing Communications Intern

About UN Global Compact Network Singapore (GCNS):

GCNS is the national lead agency promoting corporate sustainability. As the Singapore chapter of the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), GCNS works closely with companies to align strategies and operations with universal principles on human rights, labour, environment and anti-corruption, and take action to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through various platforms for multi-stakeholder engagement and collective action, GCNS advances the stewardship of sustainable business practices and Singapore’s national agenda of becoming a regional sustainable business hub. In addition, GCNS nurtures the next generation of responsible business leaders through its youth initiatives. GCNS is a stakeholder of the Global Reporting Initiative.

Position Summary

The UN Global Compact Network Singapore (GCNS) is seeking a Marketing Communications Intern to join our team for an internship for 3 months, extendable upon performance.

Responsibilities

  • Develop media and/or event materials including, but not limited to, media releases, speeches, anticipated Q&As, and responses to media queries
  • Develop content (articles, posts, videos, and more) for communications platforms such as newsletters, websites and social media platforms such as Facebook, LinkedIn
  • Monitoring of media and social media sentiments to understand stakeholder perspectives for better formulation of communications strategies. Monitoring the SM channels for engagement and query response.
  • Database Management: Identifying the topical media landscape for communications and identifying key media partners for GCNS flagship events.

Job Requirements

  • Degree level qualification, preferably in Journalism and or marketing with specialization in communications
  • Candidates with relevant experience in handling communications, digital marketing, and media engagement would be an advantage
  • Excellent oral communication, personal credibility, and gravitas to operate amongst senior stakeholders internally and externally.
  • Excellent proficiency in both verbal and written and able to adapt to a variety of styles required from corporate materials and media kits
  • Good knowledge of the local media landscape and current affairs
  • Good knowledge of integrated marketing
  • Good presentation and interpersonal skills, including emotional sensitivity
  • Independent, motivated and able to multi-task in a dynamic environment
  • A team player with the ability to handle pressure under tight deadlines.

Manager/Senior Manager Partnerships

About GCNS:

The UN Global Compact Network Singapore (GCNS) is the national lead agency promoting corporate sustainability. As the local chapter of the United Nations Global Compact – the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative –   we work closely with companies to align strategies and operations with universal principles on human rights, labour, environment and anti-corruption, and take action to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through various platforms for multi-stakeholder engagement and collective action, we advance the stewardship of sustainable business practices and Singapore’s national agenda of becoming a regional sustainable business hub.

We are an ambitious team, energised behind our mission to accelerate and scale the global collective impact of business and deliver the SDGs by 2030.

Position Summary

The Manager of Partnerships will work closely with the leadership team and programme leads to develop new or extend existing partnerships. She/he is responsible for leading, identifying, and developing new business opportunities and collaborations for GCNS. She/he should be solution and outcome-focused, with a natural aptitude for stakeholder engagement and management.

We’re looking for an agile individual who can readily assume new responsibilities, actively listen to stakeholders, and employ innovative approaches towards designing and presenting win-win solutions. We seek someone genuinely keen to make a positive impact, and capable of considering short, medium, and long-term perspectives when pursuing outcomes. If you are passionate about building partnerships and developing new ventures to drive positive impact, this role is for you!

Responsibilities

  • Identify local business and ecosystem needs to develop and execute new, differentiated products and services for GCNS in support of our mission and strategy.
  • Nurture strategic relations with local ecosystem stakeholders, including government agencies, industry associations, NGOs, and academic institutions, to further GCNS’ mission, strengthen its GCNS’ local presence market position, and scale activities 
  • Expand existing partnerships for training and capacity-building
  • Internally, within GCNS, look across the business to find revenue generation, growth, and improvement opportunities
  • Originator of new ideas and content to support GCNS thought leadership and point-of-views
  • Strengthen collaborative relationships with the United Nations Global Compact, affiliate networks, and other international partners.

Key Skills and Attributes

  • Self-starter and able to work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Strong team player who can collaborate effectively within a small dynamic team.
  • Entrepreneurial with a  can-do attitude.
  • Shares our passion in  supporting business transformation to be more sustainable Exhibits curiosity and a continuous desire to learn.

Job Requirements

  • Minimum seven years of relevant working experience in partnerships/business development
  • Strong familiarity and network within the sustainability ecosystem and national agency players in Singapore
  • Proven track record in project management, including new programme identification, design, development, scheduling, and execution, as well as oversight of P&L.
  • Strong organisational capabilities and ability to innovate and seamlessly work with teams focused on execution.
  • Experience in building networks and communities. 
  • Good analytical thought process and business acumen, matched by the ability to consider financial and non-financial bottom lines for critical stakeholders, anticipate issues, and offer ideas for resolution.
  • Public speaking and facilitation would be an added plus.
  • Having experience in curating curriculums is an added advantage.

Benefits

  • Dental Insurance
  • 13th month salary
  • Performance bonus
  • A progressive and dynamic work culture that offers flexibility in work arrangements and recognition schemes
  • A learning and growth-oriented work culture with ample professional development opportunities
  • A community environment of awesome people to work with, five days a week
  • An international network through the UN Global Compact local networks and other UN agencies

Assistant Manager/Manager (Strategic Initiatives & Youth)

About GCNS

The UN Global Compact Network Singapore (GCNS) is the national lead agency promoting corporate sustainability. As the local chapter of the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), we work closely with companies to align strategies and operations with universal principles on human rights, labour, environment and anti-corruption, and take action to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through various platforms for multi-stakeholder engagement and collective action, we advance the stewardship of sustainable business practices and Singapore’s national agenda of becoming a regional sustainable business hub.
We are an ambitious team, energised behind our mission of mobilising a global movement of responsible companies and organisations to create the world we want. Our ambition is to accelerate and scale the global collective impact of business by upholding the Ten Principles and delivering the SDGs through accountable companies and ecosystems that enable change.
We are looking for someone to help lead in this impact in Singapore where there is enormous opportunity to achieve the SDGs.

Position Summary

Global Compact Network Singapore (GCNS) is seeking an experienced Assistant Manager/Manager – Strategic Initiatives & Youth to support the development of UN GCNS Strategic initiatives programs and projects, including the planning and end-to-end execution of strategic events. In addition, they will take the lead for the UN GCNS youth programme.
The ideal candidate is a team player with a passion for sustainability.
The successful candidate will join an active UN Global Compact network that promotes corporate sustainability and responsible business in Singapore and the ASEAN region.

Responsibilities

  • Conducts research, identifies, and communicates insights relevant to the development of UN GCNS Strategic Initiatives consistent with organisational priorities and capacity
  • Directs daily operations of Strategic Initiatives programs to ensure quality stakeholder engagement in compliance with legal and performance requirements, budget guidelines, and stated outcomes;
  • Develops, organises and supports innovative strategies and special projects to better engage and serve the participation of specific target audience across GCNS programs;
  • Works in conjunction with other UN GCNS programs as needed to assure that all UN GCNS members have high quality engagement experience.
  • Coordinate all aspects of the flagship events such as plan and coordinate meetings and other activities;
  • Work closely with UN GCNS partners to ensure activities are coordinated, referrals are made, communication is strong, and that challenges are addressed;
  • Responsible for assisting in the annual awards assessment process; ensure accurate and timely tracking and reporting of program related budget, data, and other programmatic information; maintain accurate and organised files and information.
  • Annual CDL-GCNS Young SDG Leaders Award
    • Work closely with corporate partner to organise the annual Award process, evaluation and prize presentation ceremony, including securing participating companies and support student teams with the work attachment
  • Youth Engagement
    • Serve as spokesperson for GCNS youth initiatives, including conducting talks on sustainability at youth events and educational institutions
    • Grow strategic alliances, including maintaining a database of youth organisations
    • Project lead regional UNGC youth initiatives, including coordinating with project teams in UN Global Compact
  • Any other ad hoc duties as assigned by the Deputy Director- Strategic Initiatives & Youth.


Skills and Capacities

  • Strong strategic, conceptual, analytical and planning skills
  • Goal-oriented with a mature disposition to take ownership of targets assigned
  • Strong communicator (written and verbal); comfortable engaging a wide range of stakeholders across different sectors, regions and seniority levels
  • Possess a positive work ethic and determination in achieving targets within tight deadlines with minimal supervision


Educational and Experience Requirements

  • A minimum of 5 to 10 years working experience
  • A degree/diploma in disciplines related to sustainability, development or the environment would be an advantage, but not required
  • Experience leading youth-related initiatives is required
  • Accept that OT is necessary at times
  • A firm understanding of sustainability and the SDGs, with a strong interest to learn and delve deeper into specific sustainability issues
  • Able to work within a small team dynamic
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and Powerpoint required. Knowledge of design software would be an advantage
  • A highly organised and resourceful individual with the ability to work on multiple projects, they will be able to organise all details of the projects into a clear and efficient project plan for the Strategic Initiatives team to execute. They may be required to work long and irregular hours, depending on the nature and schedule of the events.

Benefits

  • A market-competitive salary and insurance package that includes dental
  • 13th month salary
  • Performance bonus
  • A progressive and dynamic work culture that offers flexibility in work arrangements and recognition schemes
  • A learning and growth-oriented work culture with ample professional development opportunities
  • A community environment of awesome people to work with five days a week
  • A nice and modern office working environment in the CBD area.

Strategic Initiatives Intern

About UN Global Compact Network Singapore (GCNS):

GCNS is the national lead agency promoting corporate sustainability. As the Singapore chapter of the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), GCNS works closely with companies to align strategies and operations with universal principles on human rights, labour, environment and anti-corruption, and take action to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through various platforms for multi-stakeholder engagement and collective action, GCNS advances the stewardship of sustainable business practices and Singapore’s national agenda of becoming a regional sustainable business hub. In addition, GCNS nurtures the next generation of responsible business leaders through its youth initiatives. GCNS is a stakeholder of the Global Reporting Initiative.

Position Summary

The UN Global Compact Network Singapore (GCNS) is seeking a Strategic Initiatives Intern to support the development of UN GCNS strategic initiatives programs and projects, including the planning and end-to-end execution of strategic events.

The successful candidate will join an active UN Global Compact network that promotes corporate sustainability and responsible business in Singapore and the ASEAN region.

Responsibilities

  • Assist full-time staff with day-to-day operations and event planning.
  • Assist with speaker outreach to collect bios, content for speaker sessions, etc.
  • Assist with stakeholder & vendor outreach to collect quotations, images, testimonials, etc.
  • Answer incoming calls and assist in answering inquiries about Summit and Apex Awards.
  • Support the administration for events and carry out follow-up tasks.
  • Assist with tasks in the areas of programme marketing, event management, sponsorship and logistics as needed.
  • Assist with drafting surveys, collecting and analyzing responses.
  • help to conduct simple desktop research to support programmes for future events.
  • Other tasks as assigned

Job Requirements

  • Relevant work experience with related to sustainability, development or the environment would be an advantage, but not required.
  • Experience in projects and events would be advantageous.
  • Highly organised with strong analytical and planning skills.
  • Goal-oriented with a mature disposition to take ownership of assigned tasks.
  • Strong communicator (written and verbal); comfortable engaging with a wide range of stakeholders across different sectors, regions and seniority levels.
  • Possess a positive work ethic and determination in achieving targets within tight deadlines with minimal supervision
  • Accept occasional long and irregular hours
  • Able to work within a small team dynamic
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and Powerpoint required. Knowledge of design software would be an advantage

Volunteer – Marketing & Communications

Job Description

VOLUNTEER – MARKETING
UN Global Compact Network Singapore (GCNS) is seeking a Marketing Volunteer who will support the team in building a community and movement for corporate sustainability, through smart and crisp marketing, communication, and branding activities.
The ideal candidate will showcase strong organisation skills and social-media savvyness. This role is open to someone who is passionate to learn more about corporate sustainability in Singapore and the region.

Responsibilities:

  • Coordinate and design thought leadership articles, newsletters, EDMs and campaign collaterals to advocate responsible business practices
  • Initiate, manage and execute GCNS content Social Media and customer facing communication calendar. This includes LinkedIn pages, and craft social media content
  • Assist with managing and updating content on GCNS’ website(s)
  • Supporting engagement with business community, including interviewing GCNS members to produce marketing content (e.g. members stories, testimonials) regarding their sustainability journey
  • Regular monitoring, tracking and reporting on competition offerings and suggesting potential improvements.
  • Assist with any other administrative and ad hoc duties as required

Requirements:

  • Organised, goal-oriented, and with a mature disposition to take ownership of projects
  • Strong communicator (written and verbal); comfortable engaging with a wide range of stakeholders
  • Some working knowledge and experience using design software (e.g. Canva, WordPress – Pro,Elementor) will be advantageous
  • Experience in copywriting will be advantageous
  • Research capabilities for report writing, data collection, and analysis
  • Willingness to learn and self-develop and able to work within a small team dynamic
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and Powerpoint required