View Vacancy – Political Adviser – Higher Executive Officer (HEO) – Colombo

Note: All applicants are required to mandatorily fill the complete online application form including the employment and educational details, experience-based segment and the behaviours and technical/ professional skills-based questions. We will be thoroughly reviewing the application forms only for all the required details. Forms that are incomplete in any respect will not be considered while shortlisting for the next stage.

Main purpose of job:

To lead on and deliver political analysis, reporting, and engagement in support of the High Commission’s Political Team.

We reserve the right to review, revise or amend the roles and responsibilities from time to time reflecting the changing needs of business.

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

1. To provide analysis and reporting of developments and trends in Sri Lanka’s internal politics, and their implications for UK policy. This will require objective and evidence- based reporting, and an analytical approach.
2. To provide analysis and reporting of developments in Sri Lanka’s foreign policy and regional affairs, and their implications for UK foreign and security policy.
3. To develop and manage the High Commission’s network with a broad range of political contacts in government, parliament, and political parties, as well as analysts and opinion formers. Prioritise, plan, co-ordinate, and deliver the High Commission’s engagements with those contacts.
4. To plan and deliver high quality visits, supporting the High Commission’s engagement with provinces outside Colombo, and visits by UK ministers and senior officials to Sri Lanka.
5. Support the High Commission’s broader corporate objectives to create an inclusive and effectively run working environment, including contributing to crisis preparation and response.

Resources managed (staff and expenditure):

This position does not currently have line management responsibilities. There are currently no devolved programme or project funds.

Language requirements:
Language:  Fluent English and Sinhala.  Tamil would be an advantage.

Learning and development opportunities (and any specific training courses to be completed):

The British High Commission provides access to a wide range of options for personal development including training courses, coaching and mentoring, job-shadowing, learning sets, and online resources through the Diplomatic Academy and Civil Service Learning. 

Working patterns:

The position is full time, 40 hours per week, as per the timings listed below, which includes a daily 1-hour lunch break:

• 08:00 -16.30 hours Mondays to Thursday
• 08.00 -14.00 on Fridays

Any other information (or specific local Post requirements):

If selected for interview, candidates will also be asked to complete a short-written exercise as part of the interview process.

No accommodation or relocation expenses are payable in connection with this position. Applicants must have residency authorisation for Sri Lanka in order to apply. The British High Commission can support a work permit application only.  Employment offers are subject to successful clearance of pre-employment and security checks.

The BHC is recognised as a good employer, with a robust, fair and transparent performance management and appraisal system linked to staff bonuses.  We have a 5-day working week, plus 21 days annual leave, 14 days public holidays, maternity leave provision, special leave, paid sick leave provision: a medical insurance package for officer and dependants, ample development opportunities, travel opportunities, a strong organisational culture, and excellent work/life balance. 

The British High Commission is an inclusive and diversity-friendly employer. We value difference, promote equality and challenge discrimination, enhancing our organisational capability.  We treat people with respect and equality and have a policy of zero tolerance for any form of discrimination, bullying, or harassment.  Staff are expected to meet high standards of conduct and performance.

We welcome all applications irrespective of age, race, colour, gender, disability, sexual orientation, religion, belief or creed. The British High Commission in Colombo is an equal opportunities employer, dedicated to inclusivity, a diverse workforce and valuing difference. Staff recruited locally by the British High Commission in Colombo are subject to Terms and Conditions of Service according to local employment law.

Essentials on Arrival:

• Excellent command of written and spoken English and Sinhala (this will be tested at interview)
• 3 years of working experience in relevant field
• An in depth knowledge and understanding of Sri Lankan politics, history, and culture.
• An established network of political contacts in Sri Lanka.
• Proven skills in building and managing a network of contacts, and in political analysis and reporting. Plus the ability to contribute to building the team’s skills in these areas of work.
• Confidence to express ideas clearly and succinctly. Credibility and personal impact to engage with senior UK/Sri Lankan political figures.
• Personal initiative, drive and ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and team working skills.
• Strong planning, organisational, and time management skills.
• Flexibility and resilience to deliver results under pressure.