Manager/ Senior Manager, Business Development, National Museum of Singapore
[What the role is]
A cultural and architectural landmark in Singapore, the National Museum of Singapore is the country's oldest museum, presenting innovative and inspiring exhibitions and programmes all year round. Join the people's museum and help us tell stories about Singapore and the World - while also shaping the vibrant commercial ecosystem within our historic spaces.The National Museum of Singapore is seeking a dynamic and experienced person to lead its business development efforts focused on driving revenue through three key areas: commercialization of venue rental spaces, tenant collaborations and other revenue generating opportunities.
This role offers an exciting opportunity to develop and maintain products and services that maximise the utilization of the museum’s assets and spaces and drive revenue growth sustainably, all within one of Singapore's most iconic heritage buildings.
[What you will be working on]
Tenant Management:
Oversee the end-to-end management of tenancy relationships within the museum, including lease negotiations, renewals, and day-to-day liaison with tenants to ensure alignment with the museum's brand and mission and a positive visitor experience.
Venue Commercialisation:
Develop and implement strategies to maximise the commercial potential of the museum's spaces, including event venues, retail areas, and F&B outlets, ensuring a balance between revenue generation and the museum's cultural identity.
Business Development:
Identify and pursue new commercial opportunities, including prospecting for new tenants, venue hirers, and commercial partners, as well as merchandising opportunities to enhance the museum's programming and visitor experience.
Stakeholder Engagement:
Collaborate closely with internal teams - including curatorial, operations, and programming - as well as external stakeholders such as tenants, event organisers, and commercial partners to ensure seamless coordination and mutual benefit.
Contract & Compliance Management:
Manage tenancy agreements, venue hire contracts, and related documentation, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations, internal policies, and heritage conservation guidelines.
Financial Oversight:
Monitor and report on revenue performance against targets, prepare forecasts, and develop initiatives to address gaps or capitalise on emerging opportunities.
Project Management:
Lead venue-related projects from planning through execution, including fit-out coordination, space reconfigurations, and new commercial activations, ensuring timely delivery within budget.
[What we are looking for]
An ideal candidate should possess the following:
Background in Retail, Business Administration, Hospitality, Arts Management, or a related field
Preferably at least 5 years of relevant experience in tenant management, venue operations, business development or commercial leasing, preferably within a cultural, heritage, or lifestyle destination.
Proven track record in managing tenancy portfolios, commercialising venues, and/or business development with demonstrable results in revenue growth
Strong negotiation skills with experience in lease or contract management
Self-motivated and driven to meet commercial targets while remaining sensitive to the museum's heritage and public mission
Creative thinker with the ability to identify and adapt innovative commercial opportunities for a public institution and enhances the museum’s visitor experience
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to manage diverse stakeholder relationships and resolve tenancy issues diplomatically
Familiarity with Singapore's F&B, retail, and events landscape is an advantage
Knowledge of relevant regulatory frameworks, including URA guidelines and heritage conservation requirements, will be advantageous
Preferably with experience in managing government tenders including the processes, governance and stakeholder engagement
Other Traits
A self-starter who thrives in a dynamic environment and is comfortable balancing commercial imperatives with cultural sensitivities.
Resilient and adaptable, with strong problem-solving skills and the ability to manage competing priorities.
A collaborative team player who can work across departments and with external partners to achieve shared goals.
Strong commercial sense with a sharp eye for identifying revenue opportunities and the ability to make sound business decisions that serve both the museum's financial sustainability and its public mission.
Comfortable working at pace in a fast-moving environment, managing multiple workstreams simultaneously without compromising on quality or attention to detail.
Genuine interest in arts, culture, and heritage, with an appreciation for the museum's role in Singapore's cultural landscape.