Political Officer – British High Commission Kampala

July 17, 2023

Job Title: Political Officer

Organization: British High Commission

Duty station: Kampala

Roles and responsibilities:

To undertake research as required for the Political and Governance Team and to give advice using appropriate written and oral reporting. To keep the High Commission closely informed about key political issues.
To arrange and attend political meetings, alone and with senior staff, gather information and communicate elements of UK policy. Build and maintain a strong network of key contacts.
To take minutes as/when required, and to produce meeting reports to inform the Political and Governance Team in a timely and appropriate manner.
To take action on matters arising from internal and external meetings, ensuring that key actions are progressed and that information is disseminated to all team members. This work could include strategy, analysis and consulting on policy.
To ensure that team members and visitors are briefed for meetings, including, where necessary, meetings with external contacts and bodies.
Support the B3 Political Officer who focuses on regional politics to flexibly respond to a wide range of UK government priorities. This may require the job holder to quickly get up to speed on a new policy area.
Other support to the Political Team which may include administrative work, assisting with the preparation of visit programs, meeting agendas, and related tasks.
Play a wider corporate role in the High Commission.

Minimum qualifications:

A university degree in political studies, international relations, social sciences or a related field.
Experience of project management, including budget management.
Experience of working in issues related to Uganda’s political, economic and social environments, including with key institutions and persons in Government, Parliament, Academia, Media and civil society.
Experience in report writing, note taking and event planning.
Minimum of three years relevant work experience.
Keen knowledge and understanding of current affairs and Ugandan political history, including but not limited to the role of Parliament and Uganda’s electoral system.
Excellent communication skills – written, oral, one-to-one, group, formal presentations – ability to vary style, pace and presentation to suit the audience.
Advanced people skills –networking, management, organising.
Strong problem-solving skills, including close attention to detail and ability to prioritise in a fast-paced environment.
Ability and willingness to undergo security vetting process.
Excellent IT skills, particularly Microsoft Office.