View Vacancy - JKT - ASEAN Policy Officer C4(L)

The UK regards ASEAN as one of the most successful and significant economic, cultural and political multilateral groupings in the world. For many years the UK has developed its relations with ASEAN member states directly – for example by maintaining an Embassy in all 10 capitals – and also via an Embassy accredited to the ASEAN Secretariat in Jakarta. This engagement is on a steep upward trajectory, as UK interests and activities across South East Asia increasingly find expression, and reinforcement, through interaction with ASEAN.  

Main purpose of the job:

The British Embassy in Jakarta is part of a world-wide network of 270 Posts, representing British political, defence, economic, trade, and consular interests around the world.  We are seeking a dynamic Policy Officer to support our work to build an enhanced bilateral relationship with ASEAN, working closely with the Political Counsellor for ASEAN and Regional Security.  

The jobholder will have an exciting opportunity to develop themselves further, working closely with the ASEAN Secretariat, Indonesian Ministries and agencies as well as UK government departments, Embassies in the 9 other capitals and Regional Hubs.  The jobholder must have a professional approach, as well as the ability to communicate in English (the official language of ASEAN) with clarity, in writing and in person. 

This is an exciting role, coming at a pivotal time for the UK, as we explore new relationships with global partners.  The job has potential opportunities for regional and international travel. This is a permanent position however the successful candidate will be offered a 1-year Fixed Term Contract in the first instance with the opportunity to extend it.

Roles and responsibilities: What will the jobholder be expected to achieve?

• Supporting the Political Counsellor for ASEAN and Regional Security (D6) in working with the ASEAN Secretariat to build an enhanced bilateral relationship between the UK and ASEAN.
• Lobbying ASEAN missions in Jakarta, including those representing ASEAN Dialogue Partners (e.g. US, China, Japan, EU) as well as core member states, highlighting the depth and breadth of UK engagement across the ASEAN region.
• Working with the Embassy press and communications team on ASEAN focused communications when appropriate, including supporting inward visits by Ministers and the UK Special Envoy to ASEAN
• The job is likely to acquire an element of programme management, as the Embassy increasingly prioritises ASEAN-connected projects
• Contribute to policy development through researching and analysing issues and recommending new or amended processes and procedures
• Provide first drafts of policy submissions and speeches and provide responses to Ministerial correspondence and Parliamentary Questions for clearance by a more senior manager
• Be an expert in the policy area and represent the policy area and department at external meetings
• Provide technical or expert advice to more senior officers and support policy development
• Responding flexibly to business needs as and when necessary  

Policy experience in at least one of the following:

• ASEAN foreign policy
• Multilateralism
• Trade & Investment Policy
• Programme Management

Fluent in Bahasa Indonesia and English