Political Officers, Africa
£59,756 pa +benefits
London SW1, Pall Mall
Closing date: Wednesday 4 January 2023 at 17:00 GMT
We have an excellent opportunity for two Political Officers to join our Africa Section within our Governance and Peace Directorate.
Reporting to the Adviser and Head of the Africa Section, the post holders will have specific responsibility for monitoring international developments in Commonwealth Africa and providing policy advice and other forms of support under the immediate supervision of the Adviser and Head of Section.
Responsibilities of the Political Officer, Africa
The Political Officer Africa is expected, among other responsibilities, to:
· Prepare briefs, background papers, short-term research projects and longer term in depth research studies on a range of international issues for senior colleagues;
· Supports the Head of Africa, and regional Heads when appropriate, on a strategic, substantive and operational basis in undertaking policy development for the Commonwealth’s intergovernmental processes including for CHOGM, CFAMM, CMAG and other high-level bodies, including the provision of advice on meeting objectives; the preparation, editing and coordination of specialist briefing material for the Secretary-General and Chairs of such meetings; and in the preparation of minutes;
· Develop and maintains networks of key contacts within selected Commonwealth member countries, including representatives of government, opposition, independent institutions and civil society.
· Undertakes duty travel, particularly (but not exclusively) within the regions of responsibility, as and when required.
· Represents the Secretariat at meetings of international organisations and other relevant fora as required.
Please refer to the Job Description for full details of the responsibilities for this position.
To be considered, applicants must meet the following criteria:
· A degree in a relevant subject such as political science or international relations.
· A postgraduate degree in a relevant subject such as political science or international relations would be desirable.
· At least five years’ experience in international affairs, peace and development, government relations and international law. Strong skills in research, analysis and writing on political issues, including in providing recommendations to senior management.
· Experience in public diplomacy and advocacy, event management, and of negotiating with governments, as well as demonstrable expertise in the African region would be desirable.
The Commonwealth is a voluntary association of 56 member governments and provides guidance on policymaking, technical assistance and advisory services to Commonwealth member countries. We support governments to help achieve sustainable, inclusive and equitable development.
Please apply by submitting a CV and cover letter. Covering letters should be structured to address the key criteria required in the person specification, giving clear examples.
To join us, you must be a citizen of a Commonwealth country.
The Commonwealth is an association of 56 independent states consulting and co-operating in the common interests of their peoples and in the promotion of international understanding. The Commonwealth is active in a number of areas including development, democracy, debt management and trade.
The Charter of the Commonwealth Secretariat is available at: http://thecommonwealth.org/our-charter
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