Political and Economics Research Officer - Australian High Commission

Agency:  Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Position Number: AC014

Title: Political and Economic Research Officer

Classification: LE5

Section: Political and Economic Section

Reports to (title): Deputy Head of Mission

Starting Salary: GHS 94,635 base salary per salary annum

The key responsibilities of this position include, but are not limited to:

• Undertake complex research and analysis on economic, political, and foreign policy issues of interest to the Australian Government and provide high-level written or oral reports.
• Provide high-level advice on developments in-country on economic, political, and foreign policy issues
• Represent and promote the interests of Australia at a range of forums, events, and meetings and provide advice on Australian participation, operational and policy issues and prepare reports summarising key points
• Develop visit programs and briefings for senior delegations and coordinate and organize meetings and logistics for the High Commissioner and other Australian-based officers for visits to the High Commission’s countries of accreditation, traveling as required
• Develop and strengthen strategic relationships, negotiate and liaise across a broad range of stakeholders to provide an effective Australian contribution to government including government, research institutions, and non-governmental organizations.

• Provide policy administrative support, by managing and preparing correspondence related to advancing bilateral or multilateral issues and the Australian Government Direct Aid Program; including preparation of official communications, translation of documents, maintenance of key policy databases (such as Heads of Government lists and ministerial profiles).
• Provide support in organizing and executing events in line with aid, political, and economic diplomacy objectives including managing the delivery of multiple concurrent events, coordinating stakeholders, speakers, and other logistical arrangements such as guest lists, catering, entertainment, and technical support.
• Provide support with the organization and facilitation of high-level meetings and visits with key political and economic officials, development partners, and other relevant stakeholders
• Other duties as directed, including relieving absent staff. The Australian High Commission operates in a fluid and fast-paced environment and needs maximum flexibility in its staff.

Qualifications and Experience

• Tertiary degree in politics, economics, or a related field and/or experience in a relevant research and analysis position, which required flexibility, adaptability, and openness to change; and includes knowledge of the political environment of Ghana and our eight other countries of accreditation.
• Strong communication, interpersonal and representational skills, and the ability to deal with a wide range of clients from diverse backgrounds including a working-level fluency in French
• Advanced level of computer literacy particularly in Microsoft Office and Outlook. Capacity to learn new computer programs and familiarity with database management.
• Highly developed commitment to ethics, organizational skills, and attention to detail, including the ability to meet deadlines while managing priorities and working collaboratively in a highly productive team.

Eligibility Requirements

• Applicants must be able to work as locally engaged staff members at a diplomatic mission in Ghana. Residency Visas and work permits are the responsibility of the applicant.
• Applicant should have a valid driver’s license; including for manual transmission vehicles.
• Available to undertake occasional short-term travel, including the ability to hold a valid passport.
• Employment is subject to satisfactory medical and security vetting.