Administrative Officer

The British Government is an inclusive and diversity-friendly employer. We value difference, promote equality and challenge discrimination, enhancing our organisational capability. We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender identity, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status or other category protected by law. We promote family‑friendly flexible working opportunities, where operational and security needs allow. The FCDO operates an agile workforce and to facilitate this, you may be required to undertake other duties from time to time, as we may reasonably require. Who are we? The British Embassy in Madrid is part of a global network representing British political, economic and consular interests overseas and is now recruiting for an Administrative Officer - Visits & Events position. Main purpose of job The Administrative Officer forms part of the Visits and Events Team and plays a key role in supporting the Political Team’s initiatives. This role is offered as a temporary cover for approximately six months and provides an excellent opportunity to gain valuable experience within a dynamic team. You will be: Supporting senior leaders, drive key visits, and help deliver excellence across our network. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity You will support the delivery of Political Team objectives by: Providing expert guidance and high‑level logistical support to ensure official and ministerial visits to Spain are executed to exemplary standards, collaborating closely with lead policy officers and working as part of the wider Visits and Events Team as needed. Leading the delivery of impactful events by leveraging specialist knowledge and experience, taking ownership of complex logistical arrangements, and fostering excellence throughout the planning and execution phases. Ensuring smooth cross‑team coordination for visits and events, proactively managing workload distribution and ensuring senior stakeholders, including the Heads of Political and EPP, maintain clear oversight of upcoming activities and strategic priorities. Manage procurement processes and financial administration in line with organisational policies. Prepare and process Note Verbales accurately and promptly, maintaining diplomatic standards. Provide policy‑related assistance as required, including research, drafting, and coordination with relevant stakeholders. Essential qualifications, skills and experience Fluency in English and Spanish, both spoken and written (minimum C1 level according to the CEFR*). Bachelor’s degree (e.g. Political Science, International Relations, Public Administration or Business Management) or minimum of 3 years’ experience in a relevant field. Excellent written and oral communication skills, track record of organisational skills including managing multiple tasks and strong attention to detail. Good IT skills, with a focus on MS Office. Proven ability of working with senior managers and authorities. Agility and flexibility to meet changing demands. Desirable qualifications, skills and experience Previous experience dealing with high‑profile authorities and VIPs is highly desirable. Knowledge of the structures of Spanish national and regional administration is an advantage. Experience working in an international environment is highly valued. Experience in managing or supporting events would be beneficial. Required behaviours Delivering at Pace, Making Effective Decisions, Managing a Quality Service, Working Together Application deadline 28 January 2026 Grade: Administrative Officer (AO) Type of Position: Full-time, Temporary Working hours per week: 37.5 Region: Europe, Eastern Europe & Central Asia Country/Territory: Spain Location (City): Madrid Type of Post: British Embassy Number of vacancies: 1 Salary Currency: EUR Salary: 35,484.83 (gross) per annum Start Date: 2 March 2026 Other benefits and conditions of employment This is a full‑time, temporary cover contract for approximately 6 months at AO grade level, based in Madrid. The successful candidate is subject to a confirmation of a background check, security clearance and the successful completion of a probationary period. The successful candidate will be enrolled in the Spanish Social Security Scheme and will therefore not be entitled to any gratuity from the Embassy based on gross annual salary. The Embassy is a Diplomatic Mission with tax exempt status and does not collect taxes for other States. Employees are fully responsible for payment of income tax at the legally required rate. Staff recruited locally by the British Embassy in Spain are subject to terms and conditions of service according to local Spanish employment law. The British Embassy in Madrid occupies four floors of a high‑rise building. In an emergency, lifts may be inoperable, requiring evacuation via stairs or to a fire safety refuge. Applicants with mobility needs are encouraged to discuss this with the job sponsor to ensure appropriate arrangements, including a Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan. Visa/work permit requirements Candidates must currently hold the independent right to live and work in Spain and be prepared to ensure that right remains throughout the scope of the contract. Working patterns Normal working hours are 37.5 per week: 8.00am to 16:00pm from Monday to Friday. Learning & Development We offer time and financial support for the successful candidate to take advantage of professional learning and development opportunities inside and outside of the organisation. All new hires undertake a workplace induction and there are a number of mandatory e‑learning courses that must be completed in order to pass probation. #J-18808-Ljbffr