Singapore’s NCSS names new chief executive officer-designate
The National Council of Social Service (NCSS) announced that a new chief executive officer (CEO) will take the helm next year. Lim Shung Yar, currently a senior director in Singapore’s Public Service Division (PSD), will succeed the outgoing CEO, Ms Li San Tan, who has led NCSS since January 2020. Lim will assume the role as CEO-Designate on November 1, with full duties beginning on February 1, 2026. The announcement was made by the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF).
Background: Lim Shung Yar’s public service track record
Lim, 45, brings a diverse portfolio from his time in the PSD, the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY), and the Ministry of Education. In PSD, he has led leadership development and strategic initiatives aimed at attracting and retaining top talent within the Public Service, as well as building leadership capacity across ministries. These experiences are expected to inform his approach at NCSS as the sector navigates a rapidly evolving social service landscape.
Leadership development and policy innovation
As senior director of leadership development and strategy in the PSD, Lim has guided policies that strengthen public service leadership and workforce capabilities. This background aligns with NCSS’s mandate to develop the social service sector’s capabilities, promote best practices, and drive sustainable growth through strong governance and workforce development.
What Lim’s appointment means for NCSS
NCSS operates as a statutory board under MSF, focusing on sector development, partnerships, and support for social service agencies. Lim’s selection signals a continued emphasis on leadership, collaboration, and digital transformation within the sector. His prior work with MCCY around community relations and engagement could help NCSS deepen partnerships with religious and community organisations, strengthening social cohesion and trust—an area identified as important for social resilience in Singapore.
Strategic partnerships and digital transformation
During his MCCY tenure, Lim fostered partnerships with community groups and the National Volunteer and Philanthropy Centre to advance giving and volunteering through Giving.sg. This experience could bolster NCSS’s efforts to mobilize resources, strengthen corporate giving, and expand the reach of philanthropic initiatives such as the Community Chest and other sector-wide collaborations. The Social Service Digital Plan, a cornerstone of NCSS’s modernization, is already guiding SSAs toward accelerated digital adoption; Lim’s leadership will be crucial in sustaining momentum and measuring impact.
Reflections on the transition and leadership continuity
Ms Tan Li San’s tenure has been marked by notable achievements, including rapid responses to the COVID-19 pandemic through the Courage Fund (COVID) and Invictus Fund, and a push to modernize social service delivery. MSF highlighted her focus on digital transformation, sector evaluation, and a refreshed brand identity for NCSS. The leadership transition aims to maintain continuity while ushering in a fresh perspective that aligns with evolving community needs.
A look ahead: NCSS’s path under the new leadership
As NCSS proceeds with this leadership transition, the organization will continue to champion sector development, improve outcomes, and expand collaborative networks. Lim Shung Yar’s diverse government experience and his history of cross-sector collaboration position him to guide NCSS through new challenges and opportunities, including the integration of digital tools, enhanced data-driven evaluations, and strengthened partnerships with civil society partners.
MSF expressed appreciation for Ms Li San Tan’s leadership and dedication to NCSS, noting substantial gains in sector development and partnerships under her watch. The ministry also underscored confidence that Lim Shung Yar will lead the council through an exciting new chapter focused on growth, innovation, and impact for Singapore’s social service sector.
