Head, Innovation Policy and Ecosystems

Job Posting Organization:
The NATO International Staff (NATO IS) is a key component of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, which was established in 1949. The organization is dedicated to ensuring the collective defense and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security of its member nations through political and military means. NATO IS operates in multiple countries, with its headquarters located in Brussels, Belgium. The organization employs thousands of staff members who work collaboratively to address security challenges and promote peace and stability across the globe. NATO's mission is to safeguard the freedom and security of its members through political and military means, and it is committed to fostering international cooperation and collective defense.

Job Overview:
The Head, Innovation Policy and Ecosystems is a pivotal role within NATO's Defence Industry, Innovation and Armaments Division (D2IA). This position is responsible for shaping and coordinating NATO's overall approach to innovation, focusing on identifying and exploring new technologies that are of the highest priority and impact for the Alliance. The incumbent will work closely with innovation ecosystems across NATO to ensure that the organization remains at the forefront of defense capabilities. The role involves addressing key challenges related to the integration of emerging and disruptive technologies (EDT) into NATO's operational framework, ensuring alignment with capability targets, and fostering relationships with non-traditional defense suppliers. The successful candidate will be expected to provide strategic direction, manage a team, and represent NATO at various international forums.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: ensuring that the section meets its objectives through the successful preparation and execution of policies, projects, and programs related to innovation and EDTs; managing and overseeing the staff of the Innovation Policy and Ecosystems Section; promoting inclusive leadership and transparency in decision-making; planning and managing the budget for assigned funds; providing advice on the use of data science and AI for defense and security; preparing briefing materials for high-level officials; representing NATO at international conferences and seminars; and performing any other related duties as assigned. The role requires strong project management skills and the ability to coordinate complex initiatives involving multiple stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in technology, innovation, international security, business administration, or a relevant field. They should have at least 8 years of progressively responsible experience in defense innovation policy or EDT areas, with a minimum of 5 years in team management and coordination. Familiarity with NATO's political and military consultative processes and key security policy issues is essential. Experience in developing and coordinating complex policies and managing multi-stakeholder engagements is also required. Proficiency in NATO's official languages (English/French) at specified levels is mandatory, with advanced proficiency in one language and elementary proficiency in the other being the minimum requirement.

Educational Background:
A university degree in a relevant field such as technology, innovation, international security, or business administration is required for this position. This educational background is essential to understand the complexities of defense innovation and the strategic implications of emerging technologies.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in progressively responsible positions, particularly in defense innovation policy or EDT areas. This experience should include at least 5 years in roles that involve team management and coordination, demonstrating the ability to lead and inspire a team effectively.

Languages:
Proficiency in NATO's official languages is required, with a minimum of V (Advanced) in one language and II (Elementary) in the other. Additional proficiency in other official NATO languages would be considered an advantage, enhancing communication and collaboration within the organization.

Additional Notes:
The successful applicant will be offered a definite duration contract of three years, with the possibility of renewal for up to three additional years. The maximum period of service in this post is six years. The position is full-time and may require travel and work outside normal office hours. NATO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from all member nations and particularly welcoming women to apply. The organization offers flexible working arrangements and has a non-smoking policy at its headquarters.