Ivan was born and raised in Singapore, where he joined the Republic of Singapore Air Force as a fighter pilot. Alongside operational flying, he has served in staff officer appointments across the Ministry of Defence and Air Force Headquarters. He worked on policy related to technology, capability development and HR, giving him first-hand insight into how strategic decision-making can translate into meaningful operational outcomes. Ivan’s policy interests centre on security, technology and international relations, particularly how emerging technologies such as AI and autonomous systems are reshaping Singapore's position in an increasingly contested region.