National Research Foundation Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

The National Research Foundation has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, digital transformation, finance, and information technology.

Driven by a commitment to advancing science, National Research Foundation champions research and innovation across all scientific fields, fostering knowledge creation and supporting national priorities through robust funding and development initiatives.

Leadership Roles at National Research Foundation

  • Deputy Chief Executive Officer - Gansen Pillay
  • Group Executive, Digital Transformation Acting Deputy Chief Executive Officer - Gugu Moche
  • Chief Financial Officer - Bishen Singh
  • Chief Information Officer - Hyunseog Chung
  • Gansen Pillay - Deputy Chief Executive Officer

    Gansen Pillay, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer at National Research Foundation, directs the organization's strategic operations and overarching mission execution. Overseeing critical departmental functions, Pillay ensures alignment with the NRF's mandate to support and promote research across all scientific disciplines. This leadership position involves driving initiatives that facilitate knowledge creation and innovation, directly impacting the development of science and technology within the nation. Pillay's oversight extends to human resource development and the provision of essential research facilities, ensuring the national science system remains robust and responsive to government priorities. The Deputy Chief Executive Officer's role is pivotal in translating the NRF's strategic objectives into tangible outcomes, fostering a dynamic environment for scientific advancement and public engagement. Gansen Pillay actively collaborates with other executive leaders to refine operational strategies and enhance the NRF's contribution to national development goals.

    Gugu Moche - Group Executive, Digital Transformation Acting Deputy Chief Executive Officer

    Gugu Moche, the Group Executive, Digital Transformation Acting Deputy Chief Executive Officer at National Research Foundation, spearheads the integration of digital technologies across the organization's operations. Moche's leadership focuses on modernizing research support systems and enhancing the accessibility of scientific information through innovative digital platforms. This role is critical in advancing the NRF's commitment to fostering innovation and development in science and technology, including indigenous knowledge systems. The Group Executive, Digital Transformation Acting Deputy Chief Executive Officer ensures that digital strategies support the provision of research facilities and promote public engagement with science. Moche's efforts are directed towards creating a more efficient and responsive national science system, directly contributing to the achievement of government priorities. By driving digital transformation, Gugu Moche enhances the NRF's capacity to support cutting-edge research and disseminate scientific findings effectively across the nation.

    Bishen Singh - Chief Financial Officer

    Bishen Singh, the Chief Financial Officer at National Research Foundation, manages the organization's financial health and strategic resource allocation. Singh directs all fiscal operations, including budgeting, financial planning, and reporting, ensuring compliance with statutory requirements and NRF policies. This executive role is fundamental to sustaining the foundation's ability to fund research, develop human capital, and provide necessary research facilities. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight ensures that financial resources are optimally deployed to support innovation and development across all fields of science and technology. Singh plays a crucial part in maintaining the integrity of the national science system by providing sound financial governance. By managing the NRF's financial portfolio, Bishen Singh directly supports government priorities and fosters an environment conducive to scientific discovery and technological advancement.

    Hyunseog Chung - Chief Information Officer

    Hyunseog Chung, the Chief Information Officer at National Research Foundation, leads the strategic development and implementation of information technology infrastructure. Chung oversees the management of all IT systems, ensuring they effectively support the NRF's mandate to promote research and innovation. This critical role ensures the provision of robust digital research facilities and enhances the organization's capacity for data management and analysis. The Chief Information Officer's responsibilities include safeguarding information assets and driving technological advancements that facilitate knowledge creation in science and technology. Chung's leadership is essential for promoting public engagement with science through accessible digital platforms. By optimizing IT operations, Hyunseog Chung strengthens the national science system and ensures alignment with government priorities for technological development and scientific progress.
    Hyunseog Chung

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding National Research Foundation Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads National Research Foundation?
    National Research Foundation is led by Gansen Pillay (Deputy Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Gugu Moche (Group Executive, Digital Transformation Acting Deputy Chief Executive Officer) and Bishen Singh (Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of National Research Foundation’s executive team?
    The executive team of National Research Foundation includes leaders such as Gansen Pillay (Deputy Chief Executive Officer), Gugu Moche (Group Executive, Digital Transformation Acting Deputy Chief Executive Officer), Bishen Singh (Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does National Research Foundation have?
    National Research Foundation has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in National Research Foundation’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of National Research Foundation includes roles such as Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Group Executive, Digital Transformation Acting Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Information Officer.