Political Adviser (full-time permanent position)

The Royal Norwegian Embassy in Sarajevo is located on Ferhadija street. The Embassy staff consists of 14 dedicated individuals including 2 diplomats. The Embassy is responsible for promoting Norway’s interests in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), maintaining and expanding bilateral relations, reporting on developments in BiH to Norwegian authorities, assisting Norwegian citizens and contributing to BiH’s development through strengthened business relations and targeted development cooperation.

Position: Full-time permanent position. Working hours 08:00 to 16:00. Availability for traveling is a must, including overnight stays.

Starting date: As soon as possible.

Applications must be submitted electronically in English to [email protected]. The subject field should be titled “Application for Vacancy”.

Applications shall contain a CV (including two references)
and a cover letter. Other documentation is not necessary at this stage.

Deadline for application: 10 October 2024, early applications welcome. Shortlisted candidates must be available for a written examination and interviews shortly after the deadline.

More about the position: 

As an integral part of the Embassy team, the Political Adviser will play an
important role in nurturing the positive relationship between BiH and Norway. Under the authority and direct supervision of the Ambassador and the Deputy Head of Mission, the Political Adviser will have a responsibility for monitoring and reporting on political developments, in particular in the security related domains such as cooperation with NATO (Norway is NATO Contact Point Embassy in BiH until end of 2026). Excellent understanding of the political landscape in BiH is a must. In-depth understanding of matters relating to the Rule of Law and the European Integration process is
considered an advantage. 

Norway is a trusted and impartial partner to BiH. The Embassy promotes dialogue with authorities at all levels, all political parties, civil society and the international community. Norway financially supports the work of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, the Council of Europe, the Office of the High Representative and the Regional Cooperation Council in BiH.

Functions and Duties:

• The Political Adviser is a focal point for matters relating to political developments and is expected to build and expand a network of contacts with domestic and international institutions and partners.

We are seeking a highly motivated colleague responsible for:

• Monitoring and reporting on all political developments, with a particular focus on the security sector and NATO cooperation, EU integration and Rule of Law.
• Preparing written material for the Embassy’s management including background notes, speaking points, meeting minutes, speeches etc.
• Executing the Embassy’s mandate as the NATO Contact Point Embassy in Sarajevo in cooperation with Embassy staff.
• Extending and maintaining the Embassy’s network of contacts with relevant authorities, institutions and partners.
• Administrative tasks relating to the day-to-day functioning of the Embassy.
• Participate in the planning and implementation of the Embassy’s activities and events.

Qualifications and experience:

• Citizen of/receptible of a working permit in BiH.
• A Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, International Relations or a related field. A Master’s degree in a similar subject will be considered as an advantage.
• At least three years (preferably more than five years) of professional working experience in matters related to the job description.
• Sound political judgement, excellent analytical and drafting skills.
• Excellent oral and written English.
• Fluent in Bosnian/Serbian/Croatian.
• Experience working in an international context would be considered as an advantage.

Other requirements:

• Strong knowledge and interest in the political and economic developments in BiH, including its Euro-Atlantic aspirations and reforms.
• Excellent knowledge of the political governance structure and functioning of relevant authorities.
• Personal integrity, respectful of ethical standards.
• Readiness to work professionally and impartially with all stakeholders, independent of political or ethnic representation.
• Transparency about personal links with political parties, if applicable.
• Ambitious, self-driven with a dynamic and flexible approach to fulfilling the functions and duties of the position.
• Strong interpersonal skills, contributing to building our team spirit. Willingness to assist colleagues.
• Ability to work independently and meet short deadlines.
• Proven networking skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including SharePoint.
• Availability for travel.