Job Description

Protocol Specialist

DEFTEC delivers mission-critical solutions through skillfully delivered services and innovative products. We are inspired by our clients' critical missions and driven to provide the most effective solutions to execute their missions, operational challenges, and requirements. Our dedicated, experienced, and talented employees work closely with our clients to ensure the delivery of exceptional services and products.

The Protocol Officer will serve under the direction of the COTR to manage and execute all protocol-related activities for HQ SACT. Responsibilities include acting as the primary liaison with local authorities, maintaining the VIP database, and planning, preparing, and executing high-level events such as conferences, exercises, ceremonies, and distinguished visitor programs. The role involves greeting and escorting dignitaries, coordinating complex schedules, and providing expert guidance on diplomatic customs, etiquette, and NATO protocol standards. Candidates must have experience in international military or governmental protocol environments, strong organizational and communication skills, and proficiency with event management and protocol software tools. A college degree or equivalent experience is required, along with fluency in English and the ability to work independently in a fast-paced, international setting. Flexibility for extended hours and travel is essential, and attendance at the NATO Protocol Course within six months is mandatory.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Acting as focal liaison point with Local Authorities.
• Developing and maintaining the VIP database.
• Planning, preparing, and executing all conferences, exercises, seminars, ceremonies, and VIP visits to HQSACT.
• Personally meeting and escorting visitors and dignitaries (as required) on their arrival and accompanying them through various phases of their visits.
• Preparing and executing an effective and comprehensive DV program. Responsible for creating schedules of events, including briefing arrangements, luncheons, ship and base tours, accommodations, transportation, and all details.
• Providing advice and training on matters relating to the customs and regulations governing diplomatic formality, precedence, and etiquette.
• Supporting the execution of numerous National Day Flag Raising Ceremonies, including coordination of Marine Corps and Band support, guests of honor, gifts, and various other details.
• Maintaining 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.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• 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.
• Experience in managing complex schedules.
• Experience in Management of electronic registration using event.
• Experience in Management of protocol software i.e. SocialTables.
• Experience in Management of electronic seating plan drawing tools i.e. Autocad.
• Experience on Database managing tools (Microsoft Access).
• College 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(s) for a university degree.
• External of NATO Protocol Course Certificate desired, NOT essential.

OTHER CONSIDERATIONS:

• 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 international environment.
• 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 is desirable.
• Previous experience working with Flag/General Officers or equivalent is desirable.
• Foreign Language proficiency, particularly French is desirable.
• Fluent in English (written and Oral).
• Ability to work outside of normal working hours to include weekends and evenings, often on short notice; and frequent travel.
• Attendance at the NATO Protocol Course, NATO School of Oberammergau is mandatory in the first six months. Tuition and travel shall be provided and therefore not included in the bid price.

DEFTEC offers a comprehensive whole-life benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, holiday, paid time off, 401K with a match, life insurance, short/long-term disability, and educational reimbursement. The DEFTEC team comprises professionals who make a difference daily in crucial national security missions. Our leadership knows that this happens by employing a diverse team that is well cared for. Our top priority is our employees, making DEFTEC an ideal workplace.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. Please get in touch with HR@deftec.com if you require reasonable accommodations.

DEFTEC is a Drug-Free Workplace where post-offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria are met as outlined in our policies.

AAP/EEO Statement

DEFTEC Corp is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type based on actual or perceived race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding), gender, gender identity, and gender expression, religious creed, disability (mental and physical) including HIV and AIDS, medical condition (cancer and genetic characteristics ), genetic information, age, marital status, civil union status, sexual orientation, military and veteran status, denial of family and medical care leave, arrest record and/or any other characteristic(s) protected by federal, state or local law.

This policy applies to all terms of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, and general treatment during employment.

Other Duties

Please note that this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of the activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.