Asst Mgr/Mgr, Performing Arts (Special Projects) - Contract until 30 Dec 2029

[What the role is]

You will contribute to NAC’s mission to champion the creation and appreciation of the arts as an integral part of the lives of people in Singapore. The purpose of this role is to formulate strategies, develop and implement programmes and initiatives and administer NAC’s support schemes to create a strong ecosystem of companies, practitioners and intermediaries.

You will support the growth and development of performing arts professionals and organisations to create quality work and programmes, engage new audiences locally and internationally, and support their continued professional development.

You will be involved in the development of the Performing Arts landscape in Singapore, with a focus on Multicultural arts projects and development. This role in grant management aims to achieve greater impact in building greater awareness and celebration of Singapore’s multiculturalism through arts. The intent to nurture a more inclusive society while enriching the Singapore identity, and foster social harmony.

[What you will be working on]

You will work with the Head of Department (Performing Arts) and Team Lead (Special Projects) to:

• Assess grant applications to provide robust recommendations that are aligned with the grant schemes’ criteria, funding guidelines, and NAC’s strategic priorities;

• Review grant applications to detect inconsistencies/fraud and ensure compliance with policies and procedures;

• Communicate with grant applicants/recipients to ensure clear understanding of requirements and deliverables, providing relevant and timely advice or support where necessary;

• Follow up on awarded grants to ensure projects are on track for completion and perform grants closure processes to verify deliverable achievement and programme compliance;

• Provide feedback and recommendations to department grants coordinator to inform policy and process improvements;

• Develop strategies to strengthen the capabilities development of the sectors, including implementing or supporting programmes (e.g. residencies) and interventions (e.g. partnerships) to drive the growth of high-potential arts organisations and practitioners;

• Review, track and be up-to-date with local and international trends and developments for the design of support levers;

• Conduct regular meetings and check-ins with primary stakeholders including Major Company and project grant recipients, arts groups, artists, key opinion leaders (KOLs), etc;

• Attend performances regularly, engage with stakeholders at networking sessions, and proactively manage stakeholders if issues arise;

• Keep up-to-date on industry trends and developments in the music/performing arts sector to understand the priorities and needs of stakeholders;

• Work with public ministries and agencies (e.g. STB, SportSG, NHB, MCCY) as required to synergise efforts in developing the music/performing arts sector;
• Collaborate with other departments to profile Singapore’s Performing Arts, and to widen internationalisation opportunities;
• Perform secretariat duties towards President Challenge’s Multiculturalism Panel; and
• Where assigned, undertake cross-department and/or cross-agency projects to achieve NAC’s/WOG’s strategic priorities.

[What we are looking for]

• Good degree with preferably at least 1 to 2 years of relevant working experience.

• Knowledge of a range of arts genres, including an understanding of the local and international arts sectors.

• Good ability to handle grants administration, including compliance requirements, assessment processes, and tracking effectiveness.

• Some knowledge of internationalisation strategies to support the global presence of Singapore’s arts ecosystem.

• Ability to oversee research and identify trends, challenges, and opportunities within the arts sector.

• Proficiency in interpreting data to inform decision-making and improve sector development strategies.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to manage diverse stakeholder relationships and navigate complex conversations.

• Effective communication skills to articulate decisions, manage expectations, and foster constructive dialogue.

• Networking capabilities to actively engage with the arts community and cultural institutions.

• Proactive and adaptable, with a strong ability to learn and respond to the evolving needs of the arts ecosystem.

• Meticulous and organised, with a process-oriented working style and adept at project management; focusing on delivering impactful outcomes.

Function Competencies required by this role:

• Claims Administration

• Communication Skills

• Partnerhsip Management

• Resource Management

• Sector/Industry Programme Development and Management

• Conceptualisation and Design

• Project Execution

• Project Timeline Management