Protocol Specialist

Overview

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high-impact, technical solutions to complex national security issues. With over 50 years of business expertise and consistent growth, we are known for continuous innovation for our government customers, in both the US and abroad. Our exceptionally talented team is highly collaborative in spirit and practice, producing Results that Matter . Come work with the best! We offer opportunity, unique challenges, and clear-sighted commitment to the mission. SPA: Objective. Responsive. Trusted.

The Joint, Office of the Secretary of Defense, Interagency Division (JOID) provides expert support services to a range of customers spanning across the Department of Defense, Federal Civilian, and international markets. JOID provides a diverse portfolio of analytical and programmatic capabilities to help our customers make informed decisions on their most challenging issues.

SPA's NATO Allied Command Transformation Group, within JOID, provides capability development, portfolio management, program management, quality management, cost estimation analysis, standardization, reporting, software solutions and information management, and capability management support. We also provide an improved capability requirements capture process, including the generation, documentation, and tracing of user requirements, with appropriate technical scrutiny, over the entire lifecycle of the requirements from capability definition through capability realization and capability usage.

We have a near-term need for a Protocol Specialist to provide onsite support out of HQ SACT in Norfolk, VA.

Responsibilities

The candidate will work collaboratively with NATO Stakeholders to support the Protocol Office in ACT. Act as focal liaison point with Local Authorities and d evelop and maintain the VIP database. Plan, prepare, and execute all conferences, exercises, seminars, ceremonies, and VIP visits to HQ SACT. Personally meet and escort visitors and dignitaries (as required) on arrival and accompany them through various phases of visits. Prepare and execute an effective and comprehensive DV program. Create schedules of events including briefing arrangements, luncheons, ship and base tours, accommodations, transportation, and all details. Provide advice and training on matters relating to the customs and regulations governing diplomatic formality, precedence, and etiquette. Support the execution of numerous National Day Flag Raising Ceremonies, including coordination of Marine Corps and Band support, guests of honour, gifts, and various other details. Maintain alphabetical biography books of NATO officials and all DVs. Serve as SME on all matters regarding protocol planning software applications inside the Protocol Branch and for events in support of HQ SACT mission requirements.

Qualifications

Required:

• NATO Secret Clearance or national equivalent
• Bachelor's degree or similar national academic qualification is required; 5 years of equivalent military or professional experience in a protocol or similar environment can be used as a substitute for a degree
• Experience in an international military or governmental agency protocol environment
  
• Experience on major joint or international military staff that includes planning of high-level events such as: Conferences, Exercises, Seminars, Ceremonies and high-level visits (preferably within NATO)
  
• Familiarity with NATO Protocol standards
  
• Excellent organizational and communication skills, and e xperience in managing complex schedules
  
• Experience in management of electronic registration using Cvent, protocol software i.e. SocialTables, electronic seating plan drawing tools i.e. Autocad, and database managing tools (Microsoft Access)
  
• Fluent in English (written and oral)
• Ability to work outside of normal working hours to include weekends and evenings, often on short notice
• Attendance at the NATO Protocol Course, NATO School of Oberammergau is mandatory in the first six months (funded by NATO)
• Ability to work independently, proactively, and resourcefully on several tasks at one time with minimum supervision
• Present a mature, professional appearance; interact well with others in an international environment
• Able to work fully onsite based on client needs

Desired:

• External of NATO Protocol Course Certificate
• Advanced knowledge of word processing, spreadsheet, project management, and graphics software
• Protocol Officer Course or equivalent formal training
• Portfolio, Program, and Project management (P3) course
• Previous experience working with Flag/General Officers or equivalent
• Foreign Language proficiency, particularly French