Head of the External Relations Department

The organisation - The European Space Agency (ESA) is an international organisation with 22 Member States. Our mission is to shape the development of Europe's space capability and ensure that investment in space continues to deliver benefits to the citizens of Europe and the world.

The role - Under the direct authority of the Director of Strategy, Legal and External Matters, the Head of the External Relations Department is responsible for proposing, coordinating and supporting ESA’s policy vis-à-vis non-Member States, their institutions and international organisations, in accordance with the overall corporate strategy of the Agency. They are also in charge of supervising the action plan to be followed in this regard. The Head of the External Relations Department is also ESA’s Diplomatic Advisor and, in this capacity, has direct access to the Director General.

Job requirements - You should have a master's degree, preferably in social science, international relations or law. Proven experience of leading, motivating and developing a team. The ability to provide strategic direction to the individuals and teams within the Department and to relate team objectives to the overall, evolving organisational goals and context. The ability to drive performance and foster cooperation within and across teams throughout the organisation. Demonstrated excellent leadership, relationship management and communication skills, both oral and written. A proven track record of representing the Agency’s interests to external interfaces. Excellent cognitive, analytical, delegation, planning and organisational skills. The ability to anticipate problems, solve complex issues and relate situations to their context. The ability to reach solution-oriented, pragmatic and timely decisions of a high standard and with integrity as well as to support others (team members, upper management, other stakeholders) in this process. People management experience would be an asset, as would international experience, i.e. outside your home country, as well as experience in diverse functional areas relevant to ESA activities.

Benefits - ESA is an equal opportunity employer, committed to achieving diversity within the workforce and creating an inclusive working environment. We therefore welcome applications from all qualified candidates irrespective of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, beliefs, age, disability or other characteristics. Applications from women are encouraged. At the Agency we value diversity, and we welcome people with disabilities. Whenever possible, we seek to accommodate individuals with disabilities by providing the necessary support at the workplace. The Human Resources Department can also provide assistance during the recruitment process.

Applications details - Please note that applications can only be considered from nationals of one of the following States: Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and Canada, Latvia, Lithuania, Slovakia and Slovenia. The working languages of the Agency are English and French. A good knowledge of one of these is required. Knowledge of another Member State language is an important asset.