Brian Tan

Manager
Foreign Workforce Policy Department

Brian is a manager with the Foreign Workforce Policy Department, and he plays an important role in contributing to the development of progressive manpower policy in Singapore. Brian’s work is often under close public scrutiny as he and his colleagues constantly try to balance the local and foreign workforce. By actively listening to public feedback and engagement with various stakeholders such as employers, Brian reviews and fine-tune policies pertaining to the foreign workforce.

As a policy writer, Brian finds his work challenging but rewarding. “My work compels me to examine the situation and weigh the pros and cons from a holistic perspective,” he quips. “In our quest for the best solution, we have to balance the needs of the various stakeholders and consider all social-economic factors and long-term implications.” Brian remarks that job satisfaction is the biggest incentive that fuels his passion for his everyday work.

“The most interesting part of my work is being able to influence lives and impact society. Back when I was still studying and carrying out my research, I could discover the problem, write about it and pin-point the problem. But then, it had stopped there without effecting any changes. Now that I am in MOM, I get the opportunity to read academic writings and I am in a position to put change intoc action and make a difference.” Brian also adds that MOM has develop him personally by challenging him to think outside of the box and to examine issues from various perspectives and appreciate the underlying issues.