View Vacancy – Head of Political Team

Main purpose of job: 

The political team at the British Embassy in Caracas liaises with a range of stakeholders in the public and private sectors, civil society and media to produce political analysis on Venezuela and help inform decision-making in the UK Foreign Office.  Key areas of focus for the political team are Venezuelan domestic politics, foreign policy, security, democracy and human rights. The political team also oversees project work and runs the Chevening Scholarship Programme for Venezuela.

The head of the political team will provide strategic direction and leadership towards the fulfilment of the section’s objectives. The key purpose will be to produce relevant and timely analysis of Venezuelan politics. To do so, the jobholder will be expected to develop and maintain a diverse network of stakeholders in the public and private sectors, as well as civil society.  The jobholder will be an important member of the wider Embassy team, having the opportunity to participate in committees contributing to the corporate objectives of the Embassy. 

Roles and responsibilities:

Leading a team of two staff delivering the Embassy’s political, human rights and Chevening objectives. Personally lead on domestic political analysis and building Embassy contacts, while helping the team deliver strategic programme outcomes in line with UK priorities. Assist the Head of the Political and Economic section with delivering key elements of the UK strategy and objectives in Venezuela.

Domestic political analysis (40%):

The jobholder will be expected to produce thorough and insightful political reporting to ensure colleagues in the Embassy and in the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office in London understand the Venezuelan political dynamics and what this means for the UK. Lead and work closely with colleagues, including with the economic and energy team, to ensure in depth, well researched and insightful analysis. Support to the Head of Mission and senior political team to anticipate, prepare and respond to the fast-moving political landscape in Venezuela.

Political engagement and networks (25%):

Build a strong and diverse range of high-quality contacts within political parties, private sector, media, academia and civil society. Attend meetings with stakeholders across the political scene, civil society, think tanks and wider stakeholders.

Wider work of the political team (20%):

Oversee and support the wider implementation of the Embassy objectives for foreign policy, security, human rights, Chevening and projects. Ensure that all activities are coherent and aligned with Embassy objectives and priorities.

Team/corporate (15%):

The jobholder will provide strategic guidance and support to the members of the political team in the delivery of relevant Country Business Plan objectives, making sure they are given opportunities for professional development and growth. They will also be expected to participate actively in the Embassy committees contributing to wider corporate objectives. 

Resources managed (staff and expenditure):

Line management of one / two members of staff in political team. 
Management of Project Funds depends on central funding availability.

Essential on arrival:

• A University Degree, preferably in political science and/or international relations, but other academic disciplines will be considered as long as an active interest in politics can be demonstrated.
• Minimum 3 years professional experience that included providing strategic political or policy advice, political engagement and influencing, and political reporting.
• High levels of discretion, with a resilient, flexible and ‘can do’ attitude.
• Strong research, analytical and report writing skills
• Proven leadership, including people management, direction setting strategic thinking, strong communication skills, both in English and Spanish, and an ability to work with kindness and respect.

Language requirements: 

Language: Spanish and English

Level of language required: Advanced (at least C1 fluency on the CERF or equivalent)

Fluency will be assessed through the recruitment process, including at the interview stage.