Involve boards of VWOs in talent management

AS the social fabric of Singapore becomes more complex amid the twin challenges of an ageing population and managing economic growth, there is an increasingly pressing need for the social service sector to grow in order to respond to the needs of society more effectively.

There are currently more than 450 voluntary welfare organisations (VWOs) in Singapore, contributing to a substantial source of employment and healthy demand for human capital. To position the social service sector as a desirable career choice, the National Council of Social Service (NCSS) has released salary guidelines for the sector. While compensation is one of the key drivers, it takes more than that to sustain talent growth in the social services sector - and boards of VWOs can play a significant role.

The signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Social Service Institute and the Singapore Institute of Directors last year to develop a flagship training programme for board directors of the non-profit and social service sector underscores the importance of boards in providing advice and guidance to their VWOs.