View Vacancy - Defence Section Driver (FRA18.637)

The British Embassy in Paris is part of a world-wide network, representing British political, economic and consular interests overseas. The British Defence Staff (BDS) France plays a key role in developing, maintaining and promoting the Anglo-French defence and security relationship. Their mission is to build enduring strategic relationships with a wide range of French partners in order to further the objectives outlined in the UK Defence Strategy for France.

We are looking for a driver to support the BDS - France team, alongside one other driver. The successful candidate will be responsible for driving and maintaining all vehicles on charge to BDS, including the mini-van, and ensuring the garage area is kept in a suitable condition.

This is an interesting and varied role which will involve frequent Ministerial and Senior Military visits to Paris and across France. This will incur some transport late or early in the day, and so can involve some long hours above and beyond the contracted weekly hours. As BDS often represents HMG at commemorative events in France, there will be a further need to work on certain weekends. The successful candidate will need to be flexible and resilient to help cover last minute changes to transport plans during busy periods.

This is a permanent full-time position, however flexible working patterns will also be considered.

 Main Duties and Responsibilities

• Drive the Defence or other attaches to official appointments as required;

• Official transportation of personnel, goods and official letters/parcels as required;

• Supporting programmes for incoming senior visitors;

• Daily check-up of vehicles and arrangements of repairs, maintenance, cleaning and refuelling of official vehicles;

• Route research and support to travel itinerary development;

• Administrative activities: record keeping of journeys and fuel consumption;

• Administration: invoice & account handling for car servicing, repair and other related work;

• Ensuring compliance with MoD financial and budgetary requirements;

• Working with other BDS-France and Embassy staff on common tasks as required;

• Occasional standing in or assisting other embassy driving requirements.

• A basic level of English and a good command of French (written and oral);

• Able to multi-task and prioritise urgent work while ensuring that routine tasks are not overlooked;

• Excellent knowledge of Parisian roads and traffic, good knowledge of France;

• Reliable and punctual;

• Ability to work flexible hours (including some evenings);

• Positive attitude and a customer-focused approach;

• Ability to work independently as well as a member of a team;

• Able to present a professional image of the BDS – France;

• Able to work flexible hours for specific events including, occasionally, events outside Paris.