Singapore Manufacturing Federation appoints Wayne Yap as chief executive officer

The Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF) has appointed Wayne Yap as its new chief executive officer, effective August 3, 2026, as the industry body prepares to support manufacturers through a period of digitalisation, artificial intelligence (AI), sustainability pressures and shifting global supply chains.

Yap brings more than 20 years of experience spanning trade associations, professional services and industry development. He joins SMF from the Association of Process Industry (ASPRI), where he served as executive director and led initiatives focused on workforce development, industry infrastructure and digital transformation.

During his time at ASPRI, Yap was involved in initiatives including the Enhanced R1 Framework, Workers Credentialing System and a trade association-led worker accommodation model.

Prior to ASPRI, Yap advised owner-managed and family-owned businesses at PwC Singapore, focusing on areas including growth, governance and risk management.

He also previously worked at SPRING Singapore, now Enterprise Singapore, where he supported the engineering services sector through initiatives covering capability development, innovation, financing and internationalisation.

In his new role at SMF, Yap will lead efforts to strengthen Singapore’s manufacturing ecosystem and support member companies as they navigate changing business and workforce requirements.

His responsibilities will include advancing industry transformation and helping manufacturers build greater resilience and competitiveness amid technological and geopolitical shifts.

Yap said the manufacturing sector is entering a new phase shaped by digitalisation, AI, sustainability requirements and changing global supply chains.

The appointment comes as manufacturers face increasing pressure to adopt new technologies, strengthen workforce capabilities and respond to evolving supply-chain dynamics while remaining competitive in global markets.

Meanwhile, Melvin Tan, who served as interim chief executive officer, will continue with SMF as vice-president and honorary secretary.