View Vacancy - Head of Political and Economic Programming
The British Embassy in Beirut has a vacancy for the position of Head of Political and Economic Planning, Grade – C4 (L).
Objective:
The successful candidate will lead the UK’s democracy, prosperity, and political programming on behalf of the embassy. This includes managing a multi-million dollar budget, with space to lead the design and direction of the overall programme (within a strategic framework). Daily exposure to the Ambassador and key political and economic leads across the embassy.
Main Duties and Responsibilities:
The UK is a major international donor to Lebanon, with hundreds of millions of dollars of programme support across the humanitarian, security, stability, and prosperity pillars. Our highest profile projects include the UK support to the LAF, the No Lost Generation education initiative, and the UK Lebanon TechHub – all deliver essential changes for the UK and Lebanon.
This role would lead the embassy’s work on political and economic programming, achieving the aim of strengthening Lebanon’s democracy, and building prosperity. Amongst international donors, the projects involved are some of the most interesting and cutting edge in Lebanon.
As the programme lead, the post holder will be expected to:
1. Oversee the overall programme, including ownership of the programme plan;
2. Analyse the political and economic climate in Lebanon (working an advisory team);
3. Translate strategic objectives into a coherent and effective programme which has tangible impact on the UK’s long-term objectives in Lebanon;
4. Set the direction to an array of International & local NGOs, businesses, and start-ups in order to deliver the programme;
5. Manage a multi-million dollar, multi-year budget (working with a finance team);
6. Be a master of all project details, but still operate strategically.
7. Write coherent and persuasive reports. Brief confidently and effectively.
8. Understand and deliver the concepts of conflict and gender sensitive programming;
9. Work closely with the Ambassador, Head of Programmes, Head of Political Section, and advisory and political sections in order to deliver shared expectations.
10. Be creative. Generate new ideas, including taking some risks.
11. Manage a large network of political, business, and international contacts.
12. Generate public diplomacy moments for the Ambassador. Be discreet when necessary.
Key Competences required for the job:
• Seeing the Big Picture - Seeing the big picture is about having an in-depth understanding and knowledge of how your role fits with and supports organisational objectives and the wider public needs.
• Delivering Value for Money - The efficient, effective and economic use of taxpayers’ money in the delivery of public services. Seeking out and implementing solutions which achieve the best mix of quality and effectiveness for the least outlay.
• Managing a Quality Service - Effectiveness in this area is about being organised to deliver service objectives and striving to improve the quality of service, taking account of diverse customer needs and requirements.
• Making Effective Decisions - Effectiveness in being objective; using sound judgement, evidence and knowledge to provide accurate, expert and professional advice.
Essential:
• Fluent communication skills in English language (spoken and written)
• At least 5 years of political and networking experience
• Minimum 3 years of financial management experience
• Project management experience
• Degree level education preferably in relevant fields
• Excellent interpersonal, communications and influencing skills with attention to detail.
• Proactive, team player with strong time management and IT skills (standard Microsoft applications).
Desirable:
• 3 years programme management experience
• Communication skills in Arabic or French
Working Hours and Remuneration:
Conditioned working hours are 40 hours gross per week. The Embassy is committed to ensuring that you are able to maintain a suitable work-life balance. Leave entitlement is 20 days (pro rated) plus 14 public holidays.
Some flexibility in working hours will be permitted subject to negotiation and agreement. The successful candidate will be required to attend set weekly meetings and some internal and external events possibly after working hours.
The British Embassy in Beirut offers an attractive working environment and remuneration package of $ 4,500 monthly for this role.
The embassy offers a competitive remuneration package in line with local labour law (including transport, family, education allowances, and medical insurance coverage). Specific training and mentoring for the role will be provided for the successful candidate.
Application Process:
Interested candidates must attach the following documents when applying online.
1. An updated Curriculum Vitae
2. Please provide examples of performance in each competency on the motivation section of the online application form.
3. A covering letter stating why you feel you have the necessary skills to perform well in the above role.
*** (Applications that do not include the above information will be rejected).
The closing date for applications is 30 August 2017.
Applications received after the stated deadline will not be considered.
The successful candidate will be subject to a 90 day probationary period. Interviews will be held at the British Embassy Beirut Office. Due to the large amount of applications we receive only those shortlisted for interview/assessment will be contacted.
The start date mentioned in the advert is an assumed start date and the successful candidate will be required to undergo security vetting procedures. Any offer of employment will be subject to the candidate achieving suitable clearances and reference checks.
Candidates must ensure that they are eligible to work and reside in Lebanon.
The British Embassy is an equal opportunities employer, dedicated to inclusivity, a diverse workforce and valuing difference. Staff recruited locally by the British Embassy is subject to Terms and Conditions of service according to local Lebanon employment law.
This opportunity is closed to applications.
