Head, Industry Engagement Section

Job Posting Organization:
The Defence Industry, Innovation and Armaments Division (D2IA) is a key component of NATO, focused on the rapid development and delivery of advanced and interoperable defence capabilities. Established to enhance NATO's deterrence and defence needs, the division collaborates with innovation ecosystems and industry partners across the Alliance. The organization is committed to fostering strong relationships with industry stakeholders to ensure that NATO remains at the forefront of defence technology and innovation. The D2IA operates in multiple countries, engaging with various stakeholders to achieve its mission of enhancing collective security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security through innovative defence solutions.

Job Overview:
The Head of the Industry Engagement Section (IES) will play a pivotal role in shaping NATO's high-level industry engagement agenda. This position involves developing, leading, and maintaining strategic partnerships with industry to support NATO's objectives. The incumbent will be responsible for organizing major events that facilitate collaboration between NATO and industry partners, ensuring that these engagements are impactful and aligned with NATO's strategic goals. The role requires a strong focus on implementing strategies for effective cooperation with industry, as well as overseeing the NATO Industry Advisory Group (NIAG) to ensure its relevance and operational efficiency. The Head of IES will also be expected to represent NATO at various industry-related events, enhancing NATO's visibility and influence within the defence sector.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will lead and oversee the implementation of NATO's strategy for cooperation with industry, ensuring that the organization effectively engages with key stakeholders. Responsibilities include planning and organizing significant events such as the NATO Industry Forum and the NATO Summit Defence Industry Forum, which are crucial for fostering dialogue and collaboration between NATO and the defence industry. The Head of IES will also be tasked with promoting a positive work environment, providing mentorship and training opportunities for team members, and ensuring that performance feedback is delivered regularly. Additionally, the role involves providing expert advice on policy development related to NIAG cooperation, coordinating with various committees to align policies with NATO's objectives, and maintaining knowledge management processes to enhance decision-making and operational efficiency within the section. The incumbent will also perform any other related duties as assigned by the Director of Industry.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree or an equivalent qualification, along with a minimum of six years of relevant professional experience, which includes managerial responsibilities. The ideal candidate should have a proven track record in organizing and coordinating multi-stakeholder and high-level events, demonstrating excellent drafting skills for policy documents and senior management communications. Furthermore, candidates must meet the language requirements of NATO, possessing an advanced level (V) in one of NATO's official languages (English or French) and an elementary level (II) in the other.

Educational Background:
A university degree or equivalent qualification is mandatory for this position. The educational background should ideally be in a field related to defence, international relations, public administration, or a similar discipline that supports the functions of the role.

Experience:
The position requires at least six years of relevant professional experience, including a significant amount of managerial experience. Candidates should have a background in project management, particularly in contexts that involve high-level stakeholder engagement and event organization. Experience in the defence sector or related industries is highly desirable, as is familiarity with NATO's operational framework and strategic objectives.

Languages:
Proficiency in NATO's official languages is essential. Candidates must have an advanced level (V) in one language (either English or French) and an elementary level (II) in the other. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The successful applicant will be offered a definite duration contract of three years, with the possibility of renewal for an additional three years. This position is subject to turnover for political reasons, allowing NATO to adapt to changing needs and maintain a diverse skills profile. The maximum period of service in this post is six years. The recruitment process is open only to nationals of NATO member countries, and applications must be submitted through the designated e-recruitment system. NATO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from all member nations and promoting equal opportunities for candidates with disabilities. The organization offers flexible working arrangements, including teleworking options, and maintains a non-smoking environment at its headquarters.