Vice President, Economist, Asia

ING Wholesale Banking in Singapore

We began operating in Singapore in 1987 where we host the regional Asia Pacific headquarters. With over 300 financial experts, we are the largest wholesale banking branch in Asia. ING stands out in the Asia Pacific region because we go a step further for our customers. We look at things from the client’s perspective which allows us to construct tailor-made solutions to fit the needs of every company we serve. This mentality underpins all our client relations and has produced various prestigious awards.

Job Profile Summary

ING’s Global Markets Research (GMR) team has presence in APAC, EMEA and the Americas with Amsterdam and London being the main Research hubs. Its core activities range from internal support for senior management and the front office to direct client engagement and media activities.

The GMR team looks at regions, industry sectors and asset classes with a view to gaining valuable insights and making predictions about futures states of the world. Ultimately, the purpose of GMR is to help people stay ahead in life and business.

In APAC, ING offers wholesale banking across 11 markets, namely Australia, China, Hong Kong SAR, India, Indonesia, Japan, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan and Vietnam.

Job Responsibilities:

As an Economist covering Asia, you are responsible for a smooth Asia research coverage – analysing economic and market trends, developing macro and housing models, publishing and communicating key findings, and collaborating with sales and trading teams as well as sector specialists.

• Work closely with the Head of Research, Asia, to deliver regional content with a focus on Australia and South‑East Asia while developing deeper expertise in these markets.
• Work with the Sectors and Financial Markets teams to help support client coverage through appropriate written research and client meetings.
• Coordinate the production of Asia-focused research content and intelligence to be shared with the Global Research team to help shape the global view and to support flagship global publications.
• Support local franchise building through participation in appropriate conferences / seminars, as well as appearances on international broadcast media.

What we're looking for:

To be considered for the role, the candidate should ideally fit the profile as outlined below:

• A solid academic background in Economics, most likely to post-graduate level. This will be complemented with appropriate work experience (at least 7 years) in a financial institution, independent research institution or public institution.
• The role will provide coverage for Australia and selected South‑East Asian markets. Strong expertise in Australia and at least one South‑East Asian economy — including their local currency and rates markets is essential. The role will also act as a back‑up and support to the Head of Research for the rest of Asia.
• Technical competences for forecasting are a further requirement (for example, econometric skills).
• Ability to communicate well under pressure is another key requirement, whether this is related to management support, client contact, or franchise-building with international media. Ideally media trained / experience in presenting at externally organized seminars.
• Effective stakeholder management skills through strong interpersonal and influencing skills.