The British Embassy in Ljubljana is part of a world-wide network, representing British political, economic, consular and Defence interests overseas and is now looking for an Assistant to the Defence Attaché.

Main purpose of job:

Working directly to the Defence Attaché and supporting UK Defence and British Embassy objectives. The post is responsible for administrative support to the Defence Attaché, coordinating the routine daily business of the Defence Section, providing policy insight and analysis. Overall, the post will contribute to strengthening bilateral defence cooperation with Slovenia. This post will work closely with the Ambassador and other Embassy colleagues in Ljubljana.

Roles and Responsibilities:

Bilateral Policy Development (20%):

• You will maintain and develop a network of contacts in Slovenia, UK Defence and defence industries, providing advice and suggestions to the Defence Attaché about how to strengthen the bilateral relationship. Support defence engagement in-country. Promote and manage bilateral military relations and training between the UK and Slovenia.  

Support to UK Defence activity overseas (20%):

• You will coordinate and process diplomatic clearance for movement to, and through Slovenia. Liaise with Slovenian MOD, Foreign & Interior Ministries.
• Manage and process applications for all UK military personnel training in Slovenia. Provide cover for Defence Sections in Austria and Switzerland during local staff absences.
• Act as point of contact for any compassionate, legal or casualty cases for UK Defence personnel on duty in Slovenia.
  

Political/Military Reporting (20%):

• You will draft reports, including providing analysis about political and armed forces developments, Slovenian’s commitment to international operations, take notes, summarise meetings and monitor defence sales. 
• Assist the Defence Attaché to provide timely responses to questions raised by the Slovenian MOD and requests for information from the UK MOD.
• Analyse local media to identify defence and security related articles of bilateral and regional interest to the Defence Attaché, providing translation where necessary.

Representational duties (20%):

• You will accompany the Defence Attaché to meetings and may provide representation in their absence or support to the British Ambassador and other Embassy colleagues. 
• Lead the organisation of remembrance and memorial events, working closely with other Embassy colleagues including on public diplomacy and communications. In addition, assist with planning and organisation of representational activity hosted by the Defence Attaché including inward official visits.  Where necessary attend events and assist with hosting; this may include working evenings and weekends.   

Administrative duties (20%):

• You will liaise with both civilian and military personnel of all ranks and status to arrange meetings, office calls and visits on behalf of the Defence Attaché.  
• Reply to and send invitations on behalf of the Defence Attaché and maintain an accurate electronic diary and database. 
• Will be responsible for maintaining a record of expenditure and activity conducted by the Defence Section.  You will be proactive, work with minimal guidance and use your own initiative. 

• Excellent fluent written and spoken English and Slovenian (minimum C1 level of CEFR*).
• At least 1 year of experience in a policy position, preferably in defence and security.
• Experience of stakeholder and customer management.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work co-operatively with others.
• Excellent administrative and organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Experience in budget management.
• Excellent IT skills, especially database management, MS Outlook, Teams, Word, PowerPoint and Excel.
• Driving licence and ability to drive to events in Slovenia and in neighbouring countries.