View Vacancy - Political Officer – Political Section

Main purpose of job:

The British Embassy, Panama City is looking to recruit a motivated Political Officer with good analytical and project management skills, and the ability to work well independently. The successful candidate will sit with the Political Team. The successful applicant will be responsible for security policy coordination in support of the Embassy’s strategic objectices. The officer will also lead on internal political and human rights work, providing high quality analysis to the Political section and wider embassy.  Beyond this, the position will offer a wide-ranging insight into embassy’s work.  A high-performing candidate will have opportunities to provide policy support to the embassy across a range of foreign policy issues. 

This is a busy and interesting role within the Embassy, which we are looking to fill with an individual who is motivated, proactive and creative. The role provides an excellent opportunity for someone with a keen interest in politics and human rights, who would like to develop their analytical and communication skills.

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

- To lead on the delivery of an embassy strategy on Security and Human Rights. Act as the policy lead for the Embassy’s programme work on human rights.

- To lead on embassy reporting to London on security, internal politics and human rights. Ensure that reporting is high quality, timely and accurate, based on accurate information and local commentary.

- To provide briefing and information on human rights and security to UK visitors coming to Panama.  And offer advice about the UK approach to these issues.

- Remain up to date with all emerging developments in the Panamanian security, human rights and political scene through the development and maintenance of a broad network of  contacts, including Panamanian policy makers, NGOs, civil society organisations and media.

- To make a corporate contribution to the life of the embassy.

• You must have a valid working permit that allows you to work in Panama if you are not a citizen.

• Computer literate, strong organisational and time management skills,

• Ability to work well independently, and within a team.

• Positive and flexible attitude.

• Confidence to proactively build and engage a useful network of contacts.

• Completed bacherlors degree, preferably in a related field (e.g., Law, Political Science,International Relations, English, Communications, Business Administration).

• Knowledge and understanding of Panamanian domestic affairs with particular emphasis on human rights, security and political developments, specially ahead of the 2019 General Elections.

Language requirements:

Language: English and Spanish

Level of language required: Profficient