Assistant Director, Incentive Policy at Economic… · Location…

Assistant Director, Incentive Policy Location: NAC - GAC [What the role is] What the role is: You will lead the governance, compliance, and operational excellence functions within NAC's Incentive Policy team. This role is critical in ensuring that NAC's funding initiatives, spanning grants, partnerships, and commissions, are administered with robust internal controls, efficient processes, and strong risk management. You will oversee the implementation of governance frameworks, drive process optimization through technology and automation, and build organisational capability in grants management. Reporting to the Head, Incentive Policy, you will supervise Manager/Senior Manager-level staff and coordinate cross-functional efforts to maintain the integrity and effectiveness of NAC's funding portfolio. [What you will be working on] What you will be working on: 1.Drive and manage comprehensive governance frameworks for NAC's funding initiatives, including external audits, grant sampling, and coordination with external stakeholders on grant governance matters. Have oversight on developing and maintaining SOPs, internal controls, and risk management systems to ensure accountability and compliance across all grants, partnerships, and commissions. 2. Lead process optimization and digital transformation initiatives across grant administration workflows. Have oversight on the process workflow on grants administration portal, oversee the implementation of automation solutions (e.g. RPA, AI-Bot), and drive initiatives to streamline grant processing, reduce turnaround time, and enhance operational efficiency through technology and innovation. 3. Provide operational oversight and coordination for grant schemes, including project grants secretariat functions. Monitor grants budget utilisation, ensure consistency in grant administration processes and templates, and facilitate cross-functional coordination with Arts Ecosystem Group, Finance, and Legal teams. 4. Build organisational capability through knowledge management and capability building initiatives. Oversee the organisation of grant clinics and training sessions, and provide advisory support on governance, compliance, and audit matters. Oversee the management of external and internal query channels. 5. Lead and develop a high-performing team by supervising and mentoring Manager/Senior Manager-level staff, translating organisation strategies into actionable workplans, allocating workload strategically, and fostering a collaborative, accountable, and growth-oriented team culture. Coordinate cross-functional collaboration and ensure sustainable delivery of both BAU operations and strategic initiatives. [What we are looking for] What we are looking for: 1. At least 7 years of working experience in grants management, governance, compliance, audit, or related functions. 2. At least 2 years of supervisory experience managing teams, preferably in policy, grant administration, or governance environments. 3. Proven track record in implementing governance frameworks, internal controls, and risk management systems. 4. Experience coordinating audits (internal, external, or AGO) and managing audit responses. 5. Experience in process improvement, workflow redesign, or digital transformation initiatives preferred. 6. Familiarity with grant management systems, automation tools, and data analytics platforms. 7. Track record of working with multiple internal and external stakeholders, including demonstrating excellent interpersonal skills such as empathy, persuasion, and negotiation. 8. Strong analytical skills and judgement. 9. Meticulous and organised, with a process-oriented working style. Functional competencies required by this role: Governance & Risk Management Controls Assessment Systems Thinking Internal Stakeholder Alignment Data-driven Policy Analysis Deep Critical Thinking Design for Implementation and Communication