JOB AND PERSON SPECIFICATION Job Title: Directorate: Grade: Political Officer Asia, Europe, and Pacific Governance and Peace Directorate H Reports To: Head Asia/Europe/Caribbean and Pacific (AECP) Section Governance and Peace Directorate General Information The Governance and Peace Directorate (GPD) is the lead directorate in the Secretariat s programme for the promotion of democracy, human rights, rule of law and good governance in the Commonwealth. The directorate is responsible to the Secretary-General for political, governance and peace work providing her with advice and support on all political issues. Its work ranges from monitoring and analysis of political developments and the preparation of briefings, to the organisation of election observation and the provision of technical assistance to build/strengthen democratic institutions, to supporting the Secretary-General s good offices role. The work is often of great sensitivity and involves demanding timetables. GPD is also responsible for organising and servicing the biennial Commonwealth Heads of Government Meetings (CHOGM) the annual meeting of Commonwealth Foreign Ministers (CFAMM) and meetings of the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG). The Asia, Europe, Caribbean and Pacific (AECP) Section is responsible for the Commonwealth s political relations with the member states in these regions. The Section also oversees the relationship with the regional organisations in these regions such as ASEAN, CARICOM and the Pacific Islands Forum, including strengthening the collaboration and partnership with the United Nations in New York. Job summary Reporting to the Head of AECP team, the political officer monitors international developments in the relevant Commonwealth regions and contributes to the development of the Secretariat s policy on political issues in relation to the countries and international organisations through briefings, advice, recommendations and support to senior staff. Task description The post-holder: Monitors political developments relevant to Commonwealth member states in the Asia/Europe/Pacific regions and regularly briefs the AECP Section on country developments. Can also be called upon to undertake this analytical role in other regions as and when required.
Prepares briefs, background papers, correspondence, short-term research papers and longer term in-depth research studies on a range of international issues for senior colleagues; Makes significant contributions to the development of the Secretariat s policy in the assigned region by way of advice and recommendations; Conceptualises and develops initiatives/ projects that underpin the long-term objectives of the directorate; Supports the Head of Section on a strategic, substantive and operational basis in undertaking policy development for the Commonwealth s intergovernmental processes including meetings of Heads of Government, Foreign Ministers, the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group and other high-level bodies on matters covered by the directorate, including the provision of advice on meeting objectives; the preparation, editing and coordination of specialist briefing material for the Secretary-General and Chairs of such meetings; and coordinating the preparation of minutes; Develops and maintains networks of key contacts within selected Commonwealth member countries, including representatives of government, opposition, independent institutions and civil society. Fosters and nurtures strategic partnerships and working relationships with relevant international organisations and partners, to advance the Commonwealth s objectives and engagement. Keeps abreast of academic and other research in specialised areas which have a bearing on professional duties; continuously develops expertise on specialised subjects that assume importance in the Commonwealth context; Participates in seminars and other colloquia on relevant issues organised by various institutions in both government and non-government sectors; Supports the Good Offices and Electoral Support Section of the Division, including supporting staff teams for election observation missions, and in working with Special Envoys and Commonwealth Experts as required; Support other directorates and divisions in the Secretariat with appropriate advice on key political/ diplomatic issues relevant to their work. Undertakes duty travel, particularly (but not exclusively) within the region of responsibility, as and when required. Represents the Secretariat at meetings of international organisations and other relevant fora as required. Adhere to the Gender Equality values of the Commonwealth as enshrined in the Charter and Secretariat s Gender Equality Policy; and Perform any other duties that may be required from time to time
Person specification Education: Essential: A degree in a relevant subject such as political science or international relations. Desirable: A post-graduate degree in a relevant subject. Experience: Essential: Minimum five years experience in intergovernmental work with a focus on international relations, with familiarity of the Asia, Europe and Pacific regions. Desirable: Experience of negotiating with governments at senior levels, representing governments internationally, and/or working in an international organisation, including research and writing. Competencies: Respect for Diversity Works effectively with people from all backgrounds. Treats all people with dignity and respect. Treats men and women equally. Shows respect and understanding of diverse points of view and demonstrates understanding in daily work and decision making. Examine own biases and behaviours to avoid stereotypical responses and does not discriminate against any individual or group. Changes systems and processes when biases are identified. Working with Others Promotes team work and removes barriers to effective team working. Provides advice and guidance for others sensitively and where appropriate. Establishes ownership for relevant activities from the outset. Develops a wide network, including senior level contacts to facilitate activities and further own knowledge Manages expectations of member states e.g. To ensure the alignment of what is requested and what the Commonwealth Secretariat could offer. Demonstrates balance between directness and diplomacy in negotiations
Uses influence to persuade partners and third parties toward Commonwealth Secretariat aims Encourages and supports others in demonstrating cultural awareness when working with others Proactively liaises with other divisions, partners and third parties. Managing Resources Identifies targets for team activities and manages progress against objectives Plans and manages activity spend accurately against budget Identifies the best method and resources when high level course of action has been identified Analyses available resources and what activity they will enable Takes responsibility for multi team/programme activities Manages diverse motivations of a range of groups in large scale programmes Drives forward results of others Take ownership for team wellbeing Decision Making Determines what can be realistically achieved when deciding on strategic solutions Is proactive and responsive in making decisions on complex, technical issues based on appropriate information Considers the relevant justifications for a particular course of action Takes context into consideration when making decisions Makes effective decisions when acting on behalf of a senior colleague, seeking advice where appropriate Bases actions and approaches on the root cause of an issue, rather than the symptoms Accountability Takes ownership of assigned tasks, honours deadlines. Ensures timely delivery of outputs within defined cost and quality standard parameters. Takes responsibility for own shortcomings and compliances. Leadership & Development Reinforces vision throughout organisation e.g. by acting accordingly inter alia Provide constructive feedback to team members and colleagues with confidence and
sensitivity Offers sound guidance and direction on complex and critical issues Actively seeks feedback on own performance and acts to modify behaviours where necessary Inspire others through own enthusiasm September 2018