Senior Political Officer (Foreign Policy and Diplomacy Service)

About the Embassy of Canada to the Netherlands
Located in The Hague, the Embassy of Canada to the Netherlands plays a crucial diplomatic role in advancing Canadian interests in the Netherlands and at Hague-based international organizations while fostering strong bilateral relations, facilitating trade and investment opportunities, providing consular services, and promoting cooperation across various fields.

Summary of Duties
The Embassy of Canada to the Netherlands is looking for a Senior Foreign Policy and Diplomacy Service Officer to work closely with our Political Counsellor and other members of the Embassy in analysing key political developments and building a network of decision-makers in the Netherlands.

What you'll do

• Reporting and analysis: You will lead on political analysis, tracking and reporting on Dutch domestic and European Union (EU) policy developments. You will draft reports, undertake research, and support briefings for the Embassy and clients in Ottawa.
• Networking: You will promote Canadian foreign policy priorities and interests by developing and maintaining networks of contacts in government, political parties, think tanks, media, and civil society.
• Advocacy: You may be called upon to represent the Embassy of Canada at events and conferences in coordination with other diplomatic missions.
• Strategic advice: You will provide strategic political advice on key priorities to managers at the Embassy, and (co-)organize meetings, visits, and events related to these priorities.
• Flexibility: Your position will require flexibility and adaptability to meet work assignments and to respond to world developments. Files assigned to the officer can change with time in light of new governmental priorities.
• Travel. You will travel occasionally, mostly in the Netherlands.

What we can offer you

• Dynamic Environment: Work with great colleagues in a strong team where no two days are the same. Current ability to work from home for up to one day per week.
• Global Impact: Make a real difference in the world by helping to advance Canada's diplomacy and Canada-Netherlands cooperation.
• Professional Growth: Opportunities for professional development and growth within a supportive team environment.
• Comprehensive Benefits: We offer a competitive annual salary and pension package (eindloonregeling). A work laptop and phone will be provided. The starting salary increases annually, contingent on positive performance.

You need to have (Essential Qualifications)

• Education: Bachelors' degree from a recognized university in a discipline related to the job requirements, e.g., political science, international studies, modern history, journalism, communications, or a related field OR 8 years equivalent including recent work experience in leading or contributing to foreign and/or domestic public policy.
• Language: Fluency (reading, writing, comprehension, and speaking) in English and Dutch.
• Experience: Significant* and recent** experience working in a professional setting, preferably in a cross-cultural context, with an emphasis on political or Dutch or EU government policy (e.g., in government, journalism, an international organization, NGO, multinational company, or equivalent environment). Also significant experience in research and the preparation of briefing notes, research summaries, presentations, or reports and proven experience of collaborative working with stakeholders from diverse groups.

* Significant means working directly in the field with responsibilities which align with the job role.

** Recent experience is defined as within the last 5 years.

Candidates will initially be screened against the essential qualifications relating to education, language, knowledge, and experience. Candidates must clearly demonstrate in their cover letter and CV how they meet each of these essential qualifications.

We want to know (Rated Requirements)

• Knowledge: Knowledge of Dutch society and politics and Dutch-EU policy dynamics, including key stakeholders and relevant issues?
• Communication. Do you have effective written communication and reading and speaking skills?
• Research and analysis skills. Are you able to conduct research and draft analytical reports? Are you able to analyze information and make timely recommendations?
• Prioritization. Are you able to manage time, prioritize, and meet deadlines?;
• Networking. Are you able to build and maintain a network of contacts?
• Convening and organizing. Are you able to organize meetings and/or events?
• Interpersonal skills and judgement. Are you are to work well with others and exercise sound judgement?

The Rated Requirements relating to knowledge, abilities and competencies will also be assessed. Methods of assessment may include, but are not limited to, a written examination, an oral interview, role-play, practical tests, references, presentations and/or psychometric assessment.

It would also be helpful for you to have (Asset Qualifications)

• Policy priorities. Familiarity with Canada's foreign policy and governmental priorities would be a key asset.
• Public sector experience. First-hand knowledge and/or experience within the public sector (e.g., Canadian and/or Dutch Governments, political parties, or advocacy organizations).
• Other domains. Experience working in academic, political, social, economic, and/or cultural domains.
• French: Fluency (reading, writing, comprehension, and speaking) in French.
• Social media savvy. Knowledge and ability to work with social media tools (Facebook, X, LinkedIn, etc.).
• Graduate degree. Masters' degree from a recognized university in a discipline related to the job requirements e.g., political science, international studies, modern history, journalism, communications, or another related field.

Preference may be given to candidates who also meet the Asset Qualifications

Operational Requirements

• Hours of work. 37.5 hours per week, 5 days a week (7.5 hours per day);
• Overtime. May be required to work compensated overtime on occasion; Preference will be given to applicants who have flexibility in their hours of work.
• Travel: Occasional travel within the Netherlands and/or internationally may be required.

How to apply

Are you ready to join a dynamic team dedicated to engaging in Dutch politics and strengthening transatlantic relations between Canada and the Netherlands?

1. Please complete the online application form and submit your cover letter and C.V. in English or French.
2. Do not include personal data such as; age, date of birth, marital status, family status or a picture in your application form, CV nor cover letter. Please only include information relevant to the vacancy as requested in the job poster.
3. Please submit a cover letter in English or French explaining why you are interested in the position and how your previous experience applies to this position. Candidates must demonstrate concisely in their cover letter how they meet all essential qualifications. Applications which do not include the requested documents or information in the CV or cover letter will be rejected.
4. Candidates who are unable to submit their application due to technical difficulties can contact us directly through LES-E-Recruitment-LDN@international.gc.ca prior to the closing date.

Salary: Starting annual salary of EUR 88,506 gross per annum plus benefits

Contract Type: Fixed Term (full-time)

Term Details: This position is a Locally Engaged Staff (LES) position, subject to the Terms and Conditions of Employment for LES at the Embassy of Canada to the Netherlands. Initial fixed-term contract of 12 months with possibility to extend or become indeterminate.