We are seeking a hands-on and strategic Senior HR Manager to lead and manage the full spectrum of human resources for Illinois Advanced Research Center at Singapore Ltd. (Illinois ARCS). As the sole HR lead, you will be responsible for establishing, implementing, and maintaining HR policies, systems, and practices in compliance with Singapore regulations and in alignment with the parent university’s frameworks.
This role requires a self-driven, operationally strong HR leader who is equally comfortable executing day-to-day HR processes and advising leadership on people strategy.
Key Responsibilities
HR Leadership & Strategy
- Develop and implement HR strategies aligned with organizational and research objectives
- Act as a trusted advisor to senior leadership on all people-related matters
- Build and evolve HR frameworks suited to a research and academic environment
HR Operations & Governance
- Oversee the full employee lifecycle, including recruitment, onboarding, and offboarding
- Ensure compliance with Singapore employment regulations (e.g. Employment Act, CPF, MOM requirements)
- Maintain HR policies, employment contracts, and HRIS systems
- Support audits, reporting, and governance requirements
Talent Acquisition & Workforce Planning
- Partner with research leaders on hiring strategies for scientific and academic talent
- Lead end-to-end recruitment and workforce planning aligned with grant cycles and project needs
- Strengthen employer branding to attract high-quality research talent
Performance & Employee Relations
- Drive performance management processes and organizational effectiveness
- Advise on employee relations matters, including conflict resolution and disciplinary cases
- Foster a positive, inclusive, and high-performance culture
Compensation & Organisational Development
- Manage compensation and benefits frameworks, including benchmarking within Singapore
- Support ongoing review of salary structures and rewards strategies
- Drive continuous improvement in HR processes and systems
Additional Responsibilities
- Support statutory reporting and institutional surveys (e.g. MOM, NRF)
- Lead employee engagement initiatives and other HR projects as required
Requirements
- Degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field; professional HR certifications (e.g., IHRP, SHRM, CIPD) are a plus
- Minimum 8 years of HR experience, including 3–5 years in a lead or standalone HR role
- Strong knowledge of Singapore employment legislation and HR practices
- Proven experience across core HR functions, including recruitment, employee relations, and policy development
- Experience in research, academic, or knowledge-based environments is an advantage
- Demonstrated ability to build or improve HR processes and frameworks
- Strong interpersonal, communication, and stakeholder management skills
- High level of professionalism, integrity, and discretion
Reporting Line
Reports to: Managing Director
What this role offers
- Opportunity to shape and build a full HR function from the ground up
- Exposure to an international, research-intensive environment
- Direct engagement with senior leadership and global stakeholders
- High autonomy in designing HR systems and culture
IMPORTANT: *Interested candidates should submit their resume together with a cover letter outlining their qualifications and relevant experience for the position. Please also include the names and contact details of three professional referees.
Applications will be considered until the corresponding position has been filled. Only shortlisted candidates will be notified.
