The British Consulate-General (BCG) in Miami has an exciting opportunity for a dynamic, creative and flexible person to join the Consulate team as Head of Politics, Press & Public Affairs (PPPA). This opportunity is a rewarding role which supports and further develops the special relationship between the UK and the US, working at the forefront of international diplomacy in order to make a real difference globally.
The BCG is responsible for British political, security, economic and consular interests in Florida, Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands (USVI).
Based in Miami, and working directly for His Majesty’s Consul General, the Head of PPPA has two core responsibilities. On the political side, the individual will build relationships with senior decision-makers and opinion-formers and provide high quality analysis of political and economic trends in the region, identifying the potential impact of such trends from a UK perspective. On the public affairs side, the individual will set the strategic direction for UK public engagement and communications work enhancing the UK’s reputation as a crucial partner for the US in politics, economics, global security, culture and innovation. This will include being the first point of contact for fast moving issues or crises, designing high impact events to showcase UK in the local market, and overseeing senior level visits to the region.
The successful applicant will be responsible for the management of 1 x Politics, Press, and Public Affairs Officer and work closely with all teams in BCG. The individual will need to combine an entrepreneurial approach and a strong grip of organisational process and delivery.
The US Network offers a unique career enhancing opportunity and is committed to supporting its staff through a variety of benefits including generous leave, insurance packages and a highly competitive 401k programme. It also promotes a culture of flexibility which enables people to better maintain wellness through an excellent work/life balance approach that encompasses hybrid working, including working from home and flexible hours, where possible. In this role you would be working in a diverse international environment side by side with UK diplomats and other country-based staff operating across the British Government’s network of Consulates and Government Offices in the United States. This network provides a platform for approximately 30 UK Government departments and agencies to conduct their work in the United States and is made up of over 900 staff with a rich and diverse background, skill sets, and experiences.
The ideal candidate will be a clear and effective communicator, have strong political antennae, be a great team player and be creative and innovative.
Roles And Responsibilities
- Work with His Majesty’s Consul General and Deputy Consul General to ensure that the BCG’s press, politics and public affairs work is planned, coordinated with all the other sections in the Consulate, and delivered in line with key objectives.
- Provide high quality analysis of political and economic developments in Florida, Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands (USVI).
- Develop a strong network of senior political and economic contacts across Florida, Puerto Rico and the USVI. Identify opportunities for political, economic and cultural collaboration between the UK and US.
- Develop and implement strategies to ensure the BCG’s engagement is diverse and supports the long-term vision of the UK-US relationship.
- Represent the BCG at external events, including some speaking engagements.
- Develop and implement projects to promote key British Government priorities in collaboration with Embassy colleagues in Washington DC, counterparts in London and external partners.
- Providing strategic input to a more integrated pan-American communications effort across all UK regional posts in the Americas and Caribbean.
- Plan and coordinate official VIP visits to support policy objectives.
- Participate in crisis training and exercises and be part of the Consulate-wide team response in the event of a crisis.
- Lead and manage the PPPA Officer in Miami to deliver, as a team, against Consulate objectives.
- Oversee the annual Marshall Scholarship selection process and outreach to Marshall Alumni.
- Any other duties as assigned.
Resources managed: 1 Political, Press and Public Affairs Officer