Deputy Director

The Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) Singapore Office is seeking a dedicated and experienced professional to fill the role of Deputy Director. This position is crucial for supporting Korean tourism-related startups as they expand their businesses internationally, particularly within the Southeast Asia market. The Deputy Director will oversee the management of startup support programs, market research, and expert networking while collaborating with Korean startups and various stakeholders to promote Korea’s tourism-related businesses globally.

**Key Responsibilities**:

- **Strategic Support for Korean Startups**
- Collaborate with KTO Headquarters and provide comprehensive support for Korean startups looking to expand in the Southeast Asia region, including assistance with establishing branch offices or joint ventures.
- Identify and evaluate promising Korean tourism-related startups and design tailored strategies for international expansion.
- Provide on/offline consulting services to Korean companies regarding entry and operational strategies in Southeast Asia, with a focus on Singapore
- **Market Research and Analysis**
- Conduct detailed research on the investment and tourism markets in Singapore and Southeast Asia, particularly regarding venture capital (VC) activity and startup ecosystems.
- Regularly compile reports on market trends, industry status, and relevant investment opportunities for Korean startups.
- Derive insights from the activities of startup support organizations and competitors from other countries, such as Japan or Korea.
- **Expert Networking and Partnership Building**:

- Build and maintain a strong network of industry experts, including global corporations, multinational companies, VCs, and asset management firms.
- Develop strategic alliances with key players in the tourism and investment sectors to foster opportunities for Korean startups.
- **Event Planning and Support**:

- Organize and oversee events related to Korean startups and VCs, particularly in Southeast Asia.
- Participate in startup-related conferences and events to build relationships and promote KTO’s mission to support tourism startups.
- **Data Management**:

- Maintain comprehensive data on Korean and Singaporean startups, investors, and experts in the tourism and startup ecosystems.
- Develop and manage a directory of companies, experts, and relevant stakeholders.
- **Facilitating Investor and Buyer Matchmaking**
- Actively match Korean startups with potential investors or buyers in Southeast Asia, ensuring consistent follow-ups and progress tracking.
- Identify investor needs and help facilitate meetings between startups and investors.
- **Additional Responsibilities**
- Collaborate on other startup-related initiatives and tasks assigned by KTO Headquarters or the KTO Singapore office.

**Qualifications**
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Tourism, Investment, or related fields. A Master’s degree is preferred.
- Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in business development, investment, tourism, or a related field, with a focus on supporting startups and facilitating international expansion.
- Proven track record in building strategic partnerships and networks with global companies, particularly in Southeast Asia
- Strong understanding of the Southeast Asian investment market and startup ecosystems.
- Excellent written and spoken English. Knowledge of Korean would be an advantage.
- Strong communication, organizational, and leadership skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and work independently.
- Experience in event management is an added advantage.

**How to Apply