Executive Assistant - LE4 - DFAT - Geneva

About The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Due to the sensitive nature of the work involved, this position will need to be able to hold and maintain a national security clearance recognised by DFAT. 

Key responsibilities of the position include but are not limited to:

• Provide high-level executive support to the Ambassador and Deputy Ambassador, ensuring the effective operation of executive offices in a fast-paced and sensitive environment.
• Manage and prioritise correspondence, invitations, briefing materials and requests, exercising sound judgement to determine priority, action and compliance requirements. 
• Coordinate official visits and delegation programs for Ministers, senior officials and high-level visitors, balancing competing priorities and operational requirements. 
• Plan and deliver representational events, meetings and official engagements, liaising with internal and external stakeholders to achieve Mission objectives. 
• Manage representational expenditure and financial administration, including forecasting, acquittals, reconciliations and reporting in accordance with DFAT policies and procedures. 
• Coordinate travel, logistics and related administrative arrangements for executive leadership and official activities, ensuring compliance with relevant policies and procedures. 
• Monitor security, operational and workflow risks, implementing required controls and escalating issues as appropriate. 
• Provide administrative guidance, maintain effective business systems and support team coordination, contributing to continuous improvement and organisational effectiveness.

• Proven experience in similar Executive Assistant role/s
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work with and support a team. Ability to develop and maintain respectful and effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders
• Ability to manage time, prioritise, plan, handle multiple tasks and work well under pressure
• Financial management and organisational skills
• Discretion and sound judgement in handling confidential information
• Extensive experience using Microsoft Office and electronic applications
• Exceptional customer service and interpersonal skills
• Fluency in English is required, with fluency in French highly regarded
• Knowledge of, or an ability to quickly acquire a knowledge of Australian Government legislation or departmental policy and guidelines in relation to the position duties

Desirable

• Previous experience working in an embassy, international organisation, or comparable environment.

Security Requirements

• Australian NV2 security clearance or the ability to obtain and maintain this. Therefore applicants must hold Australian citizenship to be considered.
• Please note that candidates who hold citizenship or dual citizenship of Switzerland are not eligible for an Australian Security Clearance.

How to Apply

Where the application form asks for a cover letter, please provide a written pitch of no more than 500 words demonstrating your suitability to perform the key responsibilities of the position. Your pitch is your opportunity to tell us why you are the right candidate for the role. It will be assessed on your ability to demonstrate, or have the potential to develop, the required skills, knowledge, experience and qualifications to proficiently perform the role. Relevant examples and accomplishments will strengthen your application. Please attach a copy of your pitch with your CV.

The Human Resources Section based in the Australian High Commission, London is responsible for managing all recruitment processes across the European region. To apply, please click here . Please direct any other queries by writing an Write an email.

We are committed to providing an inclusive and diverse workplace where all employees are valued. We appreciate the experiences, skills and perspectives of all individuals. We actively encourage applications from people from diverse backgrounds who share our values .