Grow Asia, a prominent multi-stakeholder partnership platform, is actively seeking a senior Head of External Relations. This role is crucial as it aims to enhance the organization’s strategic communications and donor engagement efforts across the region and globally. Established in collaboration with the World Economic Forum and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Grow Asia focuses on transforming food systems to be more inclusive, sustainable, and climate-resilient.
With its regional office located in Singapore and five country chapters across Asia, Grow Asia facilitates partnerships between public, private, and civil society leaders. The organization has made significant strides in mobilizing investments and delivering collaborative programs that benefit millions of smallholder farmers in the region. Currently, Grow Asia’s network operates through 44 Working Groups in countries including Cambodia, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, and Vietnam, reaching over 3.7 million smallholders with essential training and technology.
In 2020, Grow Asia received accreditation as an Entity Associated with ASEAN, a recognition that underscores its pivotal role in fostering multi-stakeholder partnerships and efficiently deploying blended finance and targeted technical assistance.
The Role of Head of External Relations
The Head of External Relations will play a vital role in shaping Grow Asia’s public image and outreach. This position involves overseeing the organization’s external communications strategy, emphasizing high-level stakeholder engagement and event management. The successful candidate will report directly to the Executive Director and collaborate closely with the Heads of Programs and Finance, as well as country leadership teams.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading the design and execution of major events, such as governance meetings and investment forums.
- Acting as a senior spokesperson for Grow Asia during public engagements and high-profile meetings.
- Building and maintaining strategic partnerships with high-value donors and public sector institutions.
- Overseeing the organization’s membership engagement to ensure alignment with priorities.
- Managing a small regional team to foster collaboration and professional growth.
Qualifications and Experience
Grow Asia is looking for candidates with at least 10 years of senior experience in partnerships, external affairs, communications, or stakeholder engagement, particularly within international development or sustainability fields. The ideal applicant should demonstrate:
- Experience with public sector institutions, multilateral organizations, and philanthropic donors.
- A proven ability to build and sustain high-level relationships across diverse stakeholder groups.
- Strong leadership skills, including the capacity to navigate complex environments and drive collaborative efforts.
- Excellent communication skills in English; knowledge of regional languages is an asset.
What Grow Asia Offers
Applicants will find a unique opportunity to influence partnerships and external engagements in one of the world’s most dynamic food systems regions. Grow Asia promotes a collaborative, mission-driven culture supported by strong regional and global networks, along with competitive compensation and benefits.
How to Apply
Qualified candidates are encouraged to submit their resume, cover letter, and samples of published editorial work or digital content to [email protected] by February 27, 2026. It is significant to include the position title in the subject line. Due to the anticipated volume of applications, only those shortlisted will be contacted.
As a multi-stakeholder platform, Grow Asia is committed to equal employment opportunities and seeks to include diverse voices in its initiatives, ensuring representation regardless of race, religion, gender identity, or other characteristics.
As Grow Asia continues to expand its reach and impact, the appointment of a new Head of External Relations will be a pivotal step in enhancing its ability to address the pressing challenges faced by smallholder farmers and the broader agricultural sector in Southeast Asia.
For those interested in this significant leadership role, engaging with Grow Asia presents a chance to contribute to transformative changes in food systems while fostering partnerships that promote sustainability and resilience in agriculture.
