Main Purpose of Job:

The Head of Political at the British Embassy in Guatemala is a key role that leads the political team and is responsible for delivering high-level reporting and analysis for both Guatemala and Honduras. The role focuses on monitoring political, economic, human rights and rule of law developments, advising senior Embassy leadership, and shaping UK engagement strategies. The job holder will also oversee communications and media work through direct line management, ensuring alignment with UK objectives, while concentrating primarily on political priorities.

Roles and Responsibilities:

1) Strategic Political Analysis and Reporting

• Provide in-depth, high-level political reporting on developments in Guatemala and Honduras, including risks, opportunities, and implications for UK interests.
• Monitor and analyse government policies, civil society trends, and international relations in both countries.
• Produce strategic briefs and recommendations for the Ambassador, Deputy Head of Mission, and UK Government stakeholders

2) Stakeholder Engagement and Advocacy

• Build and maintain networks with political actors, government officials, civil society, and international partners.
• Represent UK positions on key policy issues and support diplomatic engagement at senior levels, including on multilateral issues.
• Organize and attend meetings, events, and conferences to advance UK objectives.

3) Project Development

• Identify and propose political and development programming aligned with UK priorities.
• Support implementation of projects that strengthen governance, rule of law, and democracy.

4) Leadership and Team Management

• Line-manage two staff members: Scholarships and Projects Officer and Digital, Media and Press Officer.
• Provide strategic oversight of media and communications activities, ensuring consistency with UK objectives.
• Foster collaboration within the team and ensure compliance with internal procedures and synergies across teams.

5) Travel and Representation (Guatemala and Honduras)

• Represent the UK at official events in Guatemala and Honduras.
• Travel within both countries as required for meetings, networking, and project oversight.

Resources managed:

Direct line management of two Administrative Officer members of staff 

education and Experience

• Significant experience in political analysis, diplomacy, and/or public policy.  
• Knowledge of politics, security, governance, and human rights issues in Central America.
• An extensive network of relevant contacts. 
• Proven ability to manage teams and deliver results in a complex political environment.

Skills and Competencies

• Exceptional analytical and reporting skills with attention to detail.
• Project management experience, including budgeting and delivery.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English and Spanish, able to adjust to different audiences. 
• Ability to build and maintain networks with diverse stakeholders, including at senior level.
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Understanding of media and communications oversight.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage competing priorities.
• Flexibility and adaptability. A team-player with a can-do attitude. 
• Competent in use of Microsoft Office 365

Other Requirements

• Ability to travel within Guatemala and Honduras.
• Flexibility to attend events outside regular working hours.
• Knowledge of UK foreign policy objectives, priorities, and values.