Jobs Development Partner Programme

Complimentary advisory services for effective business transformation

The Singapore Business Federation (SBF) was appointed as Programme Manager for the Jobs Development Partner Programme (JDPP) in April 2022.

As programme manager, SBF brings on board Industry Transformation Advisors (ITAs) that companies can tap on to receive complimentary and holistic advisory services to address their manpower needs.

We speak to SBF’s Executive Director of Jobs & Skills Division  Thian Tai Chew to find out more about how the JDPP is helping companies, especially Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to accelerate industry transformation and spur job creation and redesign.

Why is there a need for JDPP?

SME owners are usually busy with day-to-day operations and do not have the time to identify and embark on business transformation activities. Many also do not know how to tap into new opportunities such as in the areas of digitalisation and sustainability.

Moreover, some could have implemented different digital systems that are not integrated or ‘do not talk to each other’ which is both inefficient and counterproductive. Many SMEs that I’ve spoken to are also unaware about which are the reliable implementing partners that they can engage with, and the relevant government grants they can tap on.

Findings from SBF’s National Business Survey 2022/2023 show that in the face of inflationary pressures and manpower challenges, businesses continue to remain focused on driving business transformation. More than half believe that business transformation initiatives are very important for operational process, customer service and products & services. Through digital transformation, they see improvements in business performance particularly in increased productivity.

How does SBF support the JDPP?

SBF engages Trade Associations and Chambers (TACs) across sectors such as wholesale trade, logistics, lifestyle, retail, waste management, aerospace and food manufacturing. Currently, we have 15 TACs on board the programme and we work closely with them to  conduct joint outreach events.

We have also recruited 18 experienced ITAs as full-timers to provide advisory services. These individuals come with rich industry experience in the respective sectors and provide unbiased business advice to SMEs that require assistance. In 2022, our ITAs supported more than 350 companies in identifying their company needs and gaps, recommended tailored solutions, connected them with experts in the fields, provided project management support, etc.

Testimonials

Mr Phua Boon Huat, President of Singapore Furniture Industries Council, which is one of the TACs under the JDPP said, “The JDPP is highly congruent with SFIC’s industry roadmap and steadfast commitment to fostering enterprise adeptness. We are delighted that JDPP has been warmly embraced by our members, as this impactful initiative supports their transformation efforts across five critical areas – internationalisation, business innovation, productivity, jobs and skills, as well as sustainability. The expertise provided by experienced ITAs also acts as a catalyst, providing businesses with a substantial edge in their growth journey. We strongly encourage more businesses to tap on this complimentary programme to unlock their full growth potential.”

Mr Patrick Chan, President of Association of Catering Professionals Singapore said, “Caterers today have moved beyond a simplistic cook-and-convey service, into the orchestration of sophisticated dining events. With JDPP, our members can tap into the complimentary expert advice provided by our ITAs to transform their business, especially in the areas of digitalisation and sustainable catering. We are happy that more members are coming forward and ready to tap on this complimentary service to transform their business.”

For more information about JDPP, click here.

Sign up for the JDPP by emailing SBF’s Jobs & Skills Division [email protected].

Note: To facilitate a fruitful advisory outcome, key decision-makers and the management of participating companies must be committed and willing to invest their time to complete the programme.