Centre Director – African Studies

About the role

The Centre Director will lead the NTU‑SBF Centre for African Studies (CAS), shaping its strategic direction and enhancing its impact across Asia and Africa. Reporting to the Advisory Board Chairman and the Dean of Nanyang Business School, the Director will champion research, outreach, and capacity‑building initiatives that connect Singaporean stakeholders with African markets.

Key responsibilities

• Define and execute CAS’s strategic vision in partnership with the Advisory Board and NBS senior management.
• Develop operational workplans, KPIs, and risk‑mitigation strategies to ensure sustainable growth.
• Lead outreach and industry‑engagement programmes, building networks with corporations, governments, and ecosystem partners.
• Collaborate with NBS faculty and international researchers to generate practice‑oriented research and thought‑leadership content.
• Oversee the creation and distribution of market‑entry insights, sectoral deep‑dives, and other knowledge products.
• Design and deliver training programmes for Africa‑savvy executives, including internships, consultancy projects, and executive education.
• Provide day‑to‑day governance, operational excellence, and financial stewardship of the Centre.

Required profile

• Proven senior leadership experience in academia, research institutes, or policy‑focused organisations.
• Strong track record of strategic planning, partnership development, and programme management.
• Deep understanding of African economies, industries, and the Asia‑Africa business landscape.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder‑engagement skills across government, corporate, and academic sectors.

Required skills