Deputy Head, Linguistic Services and Digital Transformation Lead

Job Posting Organization:
NATO, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, is an intergovernmental military alliance established on April 4, 194

• Its mission is to ensure the freedom and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security of its member countries through political and military means. NATO's Council Secretariat (CONSEC) is responsible for supporting the decision-making processes of the Alliance, providing organizational support, advice, and linguistic services to the NATO Secretary General and the North Atlantic Council (NAC). The organization operates in multiple countries, with its headquarters located in Brussels, Belgium, and employs thousands of staff members from various NATO member nations.

Job Overview:
The Deputy Head, Linguistic Services and Digital Transformation Lead, plays a crucial role in leading the transition of Linguistic Services into a digitally transformed, AI-enabled service. This position is responsible for shaping and implementing the objectives of the Linguistic Services with a focus on digital transformation, ensuring that high-pressure tasks are delivered timely and effectively. The incumbent will also serve as a deputy for the Head of Linguistic Services when required, demonstrating flexibility to work outside normal hours as needed. The role requires a strategic mindset to manage change and implement innovative solutions in language services, making it essential for the incumbent to have a strong background in both linguistic services and digital transformation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The main accountabilities for this position include leading the planning and execution of the digital transformation of Linguistic Services, coordinating change management initiatives, and providing strategic advice on technological innovations in language services. The Deputy Head will manage a team, ensuring clarity on objectives, promoting teamwork, and providing regular feedback on performance. The role also involves updating working methods to enhance efficiency, maintaining stakeholder relationships, and performing any other related duties as necessary. The Deputy Head will report directly to the Head of Linguistic Services and will collaborate closely with other staff members and managers across various divisions within NATO.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree relevant to the position or an equivalent qualification. A minimum of 7 years of experience in leading change and managing cross-functional teams is required, with at least 3 years in management roles. Excellent communication skills, both oral and written, are essential. Experience in developing and integrating AI-powered tools to streamline translation and interpretation workflows is also necessary. Proficiency in NATO's official languages (English and French) is required, with a minimum level of VI in one language and V in the other. Additional assets include a perfect command of both NATO languages and in-depth knowledge of innovations in language services.

Educational Background:
A relevant university degree is mandatory for this position, which should align with the responsibilities of leading linguistic services and digital transformation initiatives. The degree should ideally be in a field related to linguistics, information technology, or project management, reflecting the technical and managerial aspects of the role.

Experience:
The position requires at least 7 years of professional experience, with a strong emphasis on leadership and management within the context of language services. Candidates should have a proven track record of implementing state-of-the-art projects and managing cross-functional teams, demonstrating their capability to lead change effectively. Experience in a high-pressure environment is also beneficial, as the role demands timely delivery of projects and programs.

Languages:
Proficiency in NATO's official languages is mandatory, with a minimum level of VI in one language and V in the other. A perfect command of both languages is considered an asset. Knowledge of additional languages may also be advantageous, particularly in a multilingual environment such as NATO.

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. If the applicant is seconded from a national administration of a NATO member state, the same contract terms apply, subject to national authority agreement. The position is subject to security clearance and medical approval. NATO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from all member nations and promoting equal access to employment opportunities. The organization offers flexible working arrangements and emphasizes a non-smoking environment at its headquarters.