Senior Protocol Assistant

Duties

As the Senior Protocol Assistant, the incumbent supervises the three Protocol Assistants in the Protocol Office and is a key advisor to the Ambassador (Chief of Mission), Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM) and other Mission staff on all aspects of protocol, etiquette, precedence, local customs, and communication practices.  S/he provides strategic protocol advice to enable the Mission to achieve important objectives.  The incumbent also oversees representational activities on behalf of the Ambassador and DCM and provides recommendations for visits from high-level personnel from all government departments and agencies, including the President and Vice President of the United States, Cabinet Secretaries and Congressional and Staff delegations.  The position requires frequent contact with high-level officials in the Kenyan government, private sector, and diplomatic entities.  The position reports to the Chief of Mission’s Office Manager, who is the direct supervisor for the position. 

Qualifications and Evaluations

EXPERIENCE: 

• Three years of progressively responsible experience in protocol, executive level office management, business, political, or external relations is required.  
• Experience in organizing high-level events/meetings in an international setting is required.  
• In addition, two years of supervisory experience is also required. 

JOB KNOWLEDGE:

• A good working knowledge of Kenyan governmental and economic structure, political climate and social and cultural norms is required.  Must thoroughly understand Kenyan protocol and cultural norms as well as other international religious and social customs.  
• Must be familiar with U.S. customs and protocol practices.  Must be familiar with the application of administrative procedures and protocol practices of the Kenyan government, embassies, or similar international organizations.

Education Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Business Management, International Relations, Political Science, Public Administration, Humanities, Liberal Arts, Public Relations, or Commerce is required.