Political Officer: British Embassy Zimbabwe
Deadline: 7 September 2020

The British Government is an inclusive and diversity-friendly employer. We value difference, promote equality and challenge discrimination, enhancing our organisational capability. We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status or other category protected by law. We promote family-friendly flexible working opportunities, where operational and security needs allow.

Main Purpose of the Job
The UK’s relationship with Zimbabwe is complex, high-profile and sensitive, generating significant press and parliamentary interest in both Zimbabwe and the UK. This role is at the heart of the UK-Zimbabwe relationship, providing operational support to the Embassy’s political team while also allowing the job holder to develop a portfolio of political contact making and reporting.

The job holder will manage and develop the systems and relationships needed to maintain the Embassy’s leading position as the best informed and connected in the international community. Through tracking political contacts and developments, they will be well-placed to advise seniors across the mission, including the ambassador on meetings and events. The job holder will have opportunities to attend ambassadorial-level meetings, as well as maintain their own independent and wide- ranging group of contacts.

They will have responsibility for the Embassy human rights work, representing the Embassy at external events, developing contacts, and providing political reporting for senior readers. Human rights is a key focus area for the UK in Zimbabwe – taking on and developing our strategy on human rights will require significant strategic thinking, strong relationships and frequent engagement across all departments at the Embassy.