Description

As a civil service head of department, an individual is in charge of overseeing all of the district's civil servants. This job consist mainly of administrative work, which means it requires basic proficiency with computers and the ability to work at a desk in front of a computer for long hours. Communication skills are essential to coordinate all of the departments under their care and make sure all relevant parties are informed of pertinent information. Although this is mainly an office job, travel may occasionally be necessary to meet with the other department heads to share information and develop strategies. Civil service heads of department generally work full time in an office setting. They typically work during regular business hours, but overtime may occasionally be required depending on the needs of their organization.

A bachelor’s degree may be necessary for this position, preferably in business, accounting, or a related field. At least two years’ of experience in the civil service sector is generally required. These individuals should also have excellent communication and multitasking skills, as well as work well under pressure. They should perform well in a team setting, as well as on their own with minimal supervision.

Roles & Responsibilities

As a Head of Department, Civil Service in Singapore with 3-6 years of experience, your main responsibilities include:

  • Oversee the daily operations and performance of the department, ensuring efficient delivery of services.
  • Manage and lead a team of civil service officers, providing guidance, support, and training as needed.
  • Develop and implement departmental policies, procedures, and strategic plans to achieve organizational objectives.
  • Collaborate with stakeholders, such as government agencies and external partners, to drive initiatives, manage resources, and ensure effective communication and coordination.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For the role of Head of Department in the Civil Service, the following qualifications are required:

  • Extensive experience in civil service or public administration, demonstrating a strong understanding of government policies, regulations, and procedures.
  • Proven leadership skills, with the ability to effectively manage a diverse team, delegate tasks, and drive performance to achieve departmental objectives.
  • Excellent strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities, enabling the identification and implementation of innovative solutions to complex challenges.
  • Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to engage with stakeholders at various levels, build partnerships, and negotiate effectively.

Essential Skills For Head of Department, Civil Service

1

Management Skills

2

Documentation

3

Document & Reporting Compliance

Career Prospects

The role of Head of Department in the Civil Service is a crucial position that requires 3-6 years of work experience in Singapore. For professionals in this field looking to explore alternative roles, here are following options to consider:

  • Policy Analyst: A role that involves conducting research, analyzing data, and developing recommendations to support policy-making processes within the government.
  • Project Manager: A position focused on overseeing and managing large-scale projects within the Civil Service, ensuring their successful implementation and delivery.
  • Human Resources Manager: A role that involves managing and overseeing HR functions within the organization, including recruitment, employee relations, and performance management.
  • Training and Development Specialist: A position focused on designing and implementing training programs to enhance the skills and capabilities of civil service employees, promoting professional growth and development.

How to Learn

The role of Head of Department in the Civil Service in Singapore is expected to witness steady growth in the market. According to a 10-year analysis, the demand for this position is projected to increase steadily, driven by the government's initiatives to enhance governance and public administration. With Singapore's focus on economic development and infrastructure projects, employment opportunities for qualified individuals in this role are expected to rise. These projections are in line with the overall growth of the Civil Service in Singapore, indicating a positive outlook for aspiring Heads of Department in the coming years.