External Relations Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The European Space Agency (ESA) is an intergovernmental organization dedicated to the exploration of space. Established in 1975, ESA has grown to include 22 member states and employs over 2,200 staff members. The agency's mission is to shape the development of Europe's space capability and ensure that investment in space continues to deliver benefits to the citizens of Europe and the world. ESA operates across multiple countries, with its headquarters located in Paris, France, and additional offices in various locations including Washington, D.C., and Tokyo. The agency is committed to fostering international cooperation in space exploration and research, and it plays a crucial role in advancing scientific knowledge and technological innovation in the field of space.

Job Overview:
The External Relations Officer will be a key member of the External Relations Department, which is responsible for shaping and delivering ESA's international engagement strategy. This role involves developing and managing relationships with non-Member States and international organizations, ensuring that ESA's interests are represented and advanced on the global stage. The officer will report directly to the Head of the External Relations Department and will be expected to provide strategic, political, and diplomatic advice to senior management. The position requires a proactive approach to monitoring geopolitical developments and preparing key engagements that align with ESA's priorities. The officer will also play a vital role in promoting cooperation opportunities with international partners and ensuring effective communication and collaboration across the agency.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the External Relations Officer include:

• Developing and managing relations with non-Member States and international organizations, continuously monitoring their space-related policies, programs, and activities.
• Representing ESA externally in interactions with non-Member States, international organizations, and other stakeholders.
• Maintaining and expanding institutional networks with government administrations, space agencies, and partner organizations to ensure effective information exchange and cooperation.
• Identifying and promoting opportunities for cooperation with international partners, proposing priority themes, and ensuring coordination across the agency.
• Planning and coordinating engagements, including meetings, conferences, and official visits involving international partners.
• Contributing to international negotiations in close coordination with the agency's legal services and relevant program directorates.
• Providing timely insights on international and geopolitical developments by collecting, assessing, and synthesizing relevant information for effective dissemination within the agency.
• Supporting policy formulation by translating international developments into actionable recommendations, engaging with Member States' foreign services as appropriate.
• Preparing high-level briefings and documentation for ESA Council, International Relations Committee, and other agency bodies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a master's degree in international relations, political science, economics, law, or a related field. Additionally, at least 5 years of relevant professional experience in international relations, diplomacy, external stakeholder engagement, project/programme management, or similar functions in a governmental, international, institutional, or policy-oriented environment is required. Specialized experience in areas such as multilateral cooperation, foreign and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security policy, economic diplomacy, or geopolitical analysis will be considered an asset. International exposure, including experience living and working abroad, ideally outside ESA Member States, is also advantageous. A good understanding of the international space sector and ESA's activities will be beneficial.

Educational Background:
The position requires a master's degree in a relevant field such as international relations, political science, economics, or law. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of international relations and the specific challenges faced in the space sector. Candidates should have a strong academic foundation that equips them with the analytical and critical thinking skills necessary for the role.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience in fields related to international relations, diplomacy, or external stakeholder engagement. This experience should include managing international networks and interfacing effectively with various stakeholders, demonstrating the ability to build trust and foster collaboration across diverse institutional and cultural contexts. Experience in project or programme management within a governmental or international environment is also highly valued.

Languages:
The working languages of ESA are English and French. A good command of one of these languages is mandatory for the position. Knowledge of another Member State language would be considered an asset, as it would enhance communication and collaboration with a broader range of international partners.

Additional Notes:
The position is a full-time appointment for a duration of 4 years, with the possibility of extension to an indefinite term. Recruitment will be conducted within the advertised grade band (A2-A4), but candidates with less than four years of relevant experience may be considered for a lower grade (A1). The agency is committed to diversity and inclusiveness, welcoming applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religious beliefs, age, disability, or other characteristics. ESA values diversity and aims to accommodate individuals with disabilities in the workplace. Candidates may be required to undergo selection tests and basic screening before appointment, in compliance with ESA's security procedures.