Head of Asian Affairs, International Security Dialogue Department

The Head of Asian Affairs is responsible and accountable for the planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the programme’s objectives as explained below. The position reports to the Director, International Security Dialogue Department (ISDD) and collaborates closely with colleagues in the Mediation and Peace Support Department (MPSD), Research and Policy Advice Department (RPAD), Director’s Office and other departments.

The ISDD’s mission consists to create or reinforce communication channels between states, or other actors who can influence states, with a view to strengthening trust and understanding, reducing tensions, or preventing or resolving conflict. Drawing on our inhouse expertise and widespread global networks, we facilitate inclusive, discreet dialogue to support Track 1 actors and processes, and to inform Track 2 actors (“decision shapers”) with a view to generating creative and policy-oriented approaches to addressing security challenges, defusing tensions, and building trust and confidence.

In that context, the GCSP is looking for a senior professional who, in coordination with the respective department directors, will guide and coordinate the GCSP’s activities in Asia.

• Manage existing dialogue activities relevant to diplomatic dialogue engagement in the Asia region, particularly in Northeast Asia (including GCSP’s Zermatt process) and in the China-U.S. and/or China-Europe context.
• Propose and develop new dialogue projects, in consultation with the ISDD Director. Related to this: engage in fundraising activities and manage donor relations.
• New dialogue activities may include China-U.S. dialogue projects, complement existing formats in Northeast Asia, or involve other Asian states and subregions, such as India and South Asia, or Myanmar and Southeast Asia.
• Cultivate relevant networks among policymakers, the think tank community and other key interlocutors in Northeast Asia, more broadly across the region, and with interlocutors in the U.S. and Europe with relevant Asia expertise and connections.
• Contribute to GCSP’s strategy for partnership growth and resource mobilisation to build-up the centre’s diplomatic dialogue work, through deepening GCSP’s networks in the region and engaging in fundraising efforts.
• Advise GCSP colleagues on substantive issues related to Asia and develop inputs for courses or other activities in cross-programmatic support.
• Participate in the implementation of other GCSP programme activities (courses, research, policy dialogues, etc.) as appropriate.
• Undertakes other duties as required and requested by the supervisor.

• Doctoral or Master’s degree in international relations, Development, Political Sciences, or other relevant fields or relevant vocational qualifications will be considered in lieu of post-graduate degree alongside additional years of experience equivalence.

• 7-10 years of functional experience at think tanks, academia, governments, and/or international or non-governmental organisations.
• Diplomatic experience (preferred) or significant experience in international settings.
• Experience in identifying and designing dialogue activities and their subsequent implementation, monitoring and reporting.

• Existing network of policy shapers (think tanks, experts) and ideally relevant officials in Northeast Asia
• Thorough knowledge of conflicts and security issues in the Asia region, particularly Northeast Asia
• Proven track record of fundraising skills.
• Demonstrated understanding of dialogue dynamics and processes.
• Excellent drafting, analytical and communication skills.
• Proficiency in spoken and written English is required; knowledge of regional languages, in particular Chinese or Korean, is an asset.
• Strong management and coordination skills.
• Extremely organised, able to multitask, and attentive to details.
• Hands-on attitude, demonstrating both strategic and operational competences.
• Good IT skills, proficiency in Windows environment is expected.
• Ability to work autonomously.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and customer service mindset.
• Team player with a positive working rapport with colleagues and respect for diversity.