View Vacancy - Trade & Investment Associate, Energy, Infrastructure & Environment Department for International Trade

Main purpose of job:

                                                                             
The Department for International Trade (DIT) is the UK Government agency charged with securing UK and global prosperity by promoting transatlantic trade and investment and championing free trade. In the United States, DIT works closely with other UK agencies, including the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), to:

• promote British trade and investment across the world;
• build the global appetite for British goods and services;
• break down barriers to trade and investment in order to help businesses succeed; and
• support the development of a new trade policy framework for the UK as it leaves the EU.

The British Consulate is seeking a qualified Trade and Investment Associate (TIA) for the Energy, Environment & Infrastructure (EEI) sector. The TIA will be based at the British Consulate in Houston, supporting the Head of Sector (HoS) of EEI, working as part of the North America team, and wider virtual US and UK team.  

The TIA will actively contribute to the EEI team’s strategy by supporting UK companies who export to the US as well as identifying and supporting potential new investors into the UK’s Infrastructure, Environment & Energy sectors. Reporting to the Head of Energy, Infrastructure & Environment, the position presents a unique opportunity to join a dynamic team comprised of trade and investment professionals.

Roles and responsibilities:

• Provide broad-based support to both the North America Energy, Environment & Infrastructure Head of Sector (HoS)
• Proactively identify companies within the sector that would be interested in setting up or expanding their operations in the UK; make initial contact, organize visit programs and schedule company meetings for HoS. Attend meetings where appropriate and assist in the management of client relationships
• Conduct research and compile reports on industry developments, best routes to market and potential US business partners for UK companies looking to enter the US market.
• Develop, maintain, and disseminate knowledge of developments, trends, and opportunities in the US and the UK.
• Liaise with internal teams, and external contacts at an executive level, including cold calls and networking at events
• Develop a working knowledge of the EEI market in the US, with a proactive focus on Clean Growth, Energy Transition, Renewables and Infrastructure.
• Maintain client relationship management records, lists of key industry contacts and other data.
• Provide operational and administrative support to the Head of Sector and to the wider team as and when required including maintaining databases and budgets, etc.
• Ability to use a variety of online and social media tools.
• Support incoming trade missions, networking receptions, visit programs, plan company meetings and introductions and research/produce market reports.
• Support HoS in assisting UK companies in developing their market entry strategy and support UK companies already in the US market

Essential on arrival:

• A minimum of a Bachelor's degree is required.
• 1-3 years professional experience in international business, advanced engineering and manufacturing, or other related field.
• Proactive, self-starting approach to work with the ability to deliver effectively under limited day-to-day supervision in a deadline-sensitive, fast-paced environment.
• Strong ability to problem solve, organize, prioritize and manage tasks.
• Ability to effectively and credibly deal with companies/organizations at a senior level through all forms of communication and a proven track record of fostering business relationships.
• Excellent research and report writing skills – with an ability to identify relevant information and provide clear, concise summaries.
• Strong and enthusiastic networking skills, and the ability to attend early morning and evening events.
• Committed team player, with the ability to build strong connections both within and outside of the Department for International Trade.
• Understanding and knowledge of the business environments in the UK and US.
• Proficiency in standard Microsoft applications and client relationship management software (is desired)
• Valid driver’s license and passport; the ability to attend official functions outside of office hours; and the ability to undertake domestic and international air travel, including overnight stays.