View Vacancy – Defence Intern – Defence Section Bogotá

Defence Section Bogotá delivers Defence Engagement (DE) in Colombia and three other regional countries of responsibility (Ecuador, Peru and Venezuela). DE is multi-faceted and covers a wide range of activities and aspects including, but not limited to delivery of international defence training; visits (in and out) by Ministers, senior officers and other government officials, ships, and aircraft; supporting HMG prosperity opportunities; and establishing and maintaining close relationships with key government and military figures in host countries.

The Defence Intern will support the Defence Section in a variety of tasks contributing to the implementation of the defence cooperation programmes with Colombia and the three other regional countries of responsibility in support of UK Defence strategy and objectives. The position is a unique opportunity to gain valuable experience in a diplomatic atmosphere while learning about the country’s defence sectors and military environments. 

The successful candidate will be responsible for supporting the planning and delivery of training, organizing meetings, collating/researching background information on Defence projects, drafting reports and meeting minutes, as well as supporting the organisation of high-profile events for the Defence Section and developing visit programmes.

Strong team working skills, flexibility, resilience, and professionalism are essential for this role.

Roles and responsibilities:

• Organize meetings for the Defence Team with defence stakeholders, including follow-up confirmation on meetings requests via email and phone calls.
• Job-shadow the Defence Executive Officer during meetings and serve as a note-taker. This will include preparing pre-meeting briefings and post-meeting readouts and action points.
• Assist Defence Section translation of official documents from English to Spanish and vice versa.
• Support Defence Executive Officer in the sending and processing of Defence Section correspondence and documentation to external parties.
• Provide translation support during receptions and meetings where a language barrier is present.
• Assist the Defence Section in the coordination of visit programmes and administrative support to events (including accommodation, venues, transport, catering, audiovisual equipment, and any special needs). Lead with the delivery of programmes and materials for Defence Section visits.
• Manage guest lists and RSVPs for Defence Section events and functions through email and phone communication.
• Maintain Defence Section resource library and ensure all files are updated and easily accessible, including contacts lists, agendas, reports, and presentations.
• Research and gathering relevant background information on Defence sector structures and military forces structures in the countries of responsibility.
• Support the Defence Executive Officer in maintaining an up-to-date contact and alumni database for each country.

The above list is not exhaustive, and the intern will be required to be flexible as specific responsibilities could change in the future and this would be at the discretion of the line manager or head of section. The job description may be reviewed to meet changes in business needs. The intern may also take on other ad hoc tasks as required.

• Currently enrolled to obtain a bachelor’s degree in international relations or political science in a Colombian University, but other academic disciplines will be considered if an active interest in Defence can be demonstrated.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work with kindness and respect.
• Advanced command of written and spoken English and Spanish (Spanish and English testing will be conducted during interview stage). Ability to express ideas and messages clearly and concisely.
• Excellent computer skills, including familiarity with the Microsoft Office suite of programs.
• Strong organisational, analytical and proactivity skills.
• Demonstrates a keen interest in defence cooperation matters.
• Ability to multi-task and have good organisational skills. Ability to prioritise own workload and meet deadlines and respond quickly and flexibly to meet multiple and changing priorities.
• High levels of discretion, with a resilient, flexible and ‘can do’ attitude.
• Must have the legal right to live and work in Colombia.

Language requirements: 

Language:  Advanced command of written and spoken English and Spanish.
Level of language required: Spanish – fluent, English – advanced (fluent is highly desirable).