DIRECTOR, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

VACANCY NOTICE DIRECTOR, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS The Government of Montserrat is inviting applications from suitably qualified persons for the post of DIRECTOR, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS , External Affairs Unit, Office of the Premier. JOB PURPOSE To represent and promote the Government of Montserrat's interests before domestic and international audiences and to provide technical support to the government on regional, diaspora affairs and human rights. To initiate, manage and build corporate relationships with key stakeholders to include but not limited to governments, regional and international bodies, academia, relevant industry players and non-government organizations (Local and Non-local), with all intent to develop and advocate national interests. To establish and implement a wide range of advancement policies and procedures to attract and retain local, regional and international support. Contribute to the enhancing of bilateral economic relations and promotion of trade and investment opportunities on Montserrat KEY JOB RESPONSIBILITIES Function as the reference, liaison and communication focal point in relation to OECS, CARICOM and diaspora related matters; Representation, promotion, facilitation and negotiation of Montserrat's interests, inter alia,  as a business and investment location at the regional level  within the OECS and CARICOM and within the various diaspora communities; Monitoring and providing periodic reporting on regional and international obligations through collaboration and  co - operation with ministries and departments; Preparation of briefs, statements, speaking notes and reports for senior officials in relation to regional and other external affairs matters; Define and promote the Government's objectives in relation to regional affairs, diaspora issues and matters related to Immigration, in the delivery of the department's work programme; To collaborate with key Ministries, Departments and other stakeholders to develop a comprehensive Immigration Policy which holistically guides and governs the transit of people to Montserrat's borders; Function as the Head of Protocol, ensuring the effective discharge of all protocol and diplomatic services; Supporting the development and monitoring of the work programme for the Montserrat UK Office; Identifying, engaging and securing avenues of support from regional/ international organisations to assist with local project initiatives; Supporting the work of the government on strategic projects and major policy issues including stakeholder mapping and country assessments to ascertain the likely impact of new policies and regulations on GoM's overall operations; Undertaking and commissioning bespoke research and analysis to create and spearhead the implementation of GoM policies which guide and support the government's stance on external matters; Represent the Government of Montserrat at external meetings and providing input into the preparation of press releases, journals and local external publications. Develop and implement a sound departmental work plan for the External Affairs Unit ensuring maximum use of available resources. Manage the External Affairs Unit, inclusive of administrative, human resource and finance matters. QUALIFICATIONS The applicant should possess academic qualifications as follows: Preferably a Master's Degree in International Relations/ Diplomacy/ International Law and Economics and or Political Sciences; At a minimum, a Bachelor's Degree in Trade or International Relations/ Economics/ Law and or Political Sciences, inclusive of a foreign language. EXPERIENCE The applicant should have: At least five (5) - seven (7) year's practical experience working in areas related to either or a combination of the following: Diplomacy, Foreign Relations, Foreign Services, Economics, Communication Science and or Research Science; Knowledge of GoM's development plans and aiding policies in addition to a strong interest in regional/international affairs; Training in conciliation, conflict resolution and negotiating methods and techniques; Modern Information Technology and communication skills; Knowledge of the relevant local and model regional legislation; Broad familiarity with key CARICOM and OECS agreements. Administrative and financial experience with the ability to report on related matters on a regular basis. A range of professional and interpersonal skills are necessary to be effective in this role: Analytical; Negotiation; Leadership; Media Communication; Planning and Organizational; Change Management; Supervisory, Management or Leadership; Investigative; Information Management; Conflict Resolution, Team Building and excellent oral and written communication skills; The applicant should also be: -      assertive and tactful; -      have the ability to multi-task; -      energetic, motivated and versatile; -      culturally aware and sensitive; -      flexible to travel throughout the region and internationally to advance agreements TERMS OF APPOINTMENT Appointment will be made on a Permanent or Contractual basis. REMUNERATION PACKAGE -      Basic Salary is at Scale R7 - EC$73,140.00 per annum - taxable. Allowances -      Telephone Allowance - EC$720.00 per annum - taxable -      Entertainment Allowance - EC$ 3,600.00 per annum - non taxable -      A non-taxable Travel Allowance of EC$9,600.00 per annum is payable to the successful applicant if he/she is an owner of a motor vehicle.