Protocol Specialist

About the role

Spektrum supports apex purchasers (NATO, UN, EU, and National Government and Defence) and their Tier 1 supplier ecosystem with a wide range of specialist services. We are looking for personnel to join our team and support key client projects, specifically with the NATO Communication and Information Agency (NCIA). The NCIA provides secure and effective communications and information technology (IT) services to NATO's member countries and its partners.

Responsibilities

The successful candidate will perform under the direction of the COTR and will be responsible for:

• 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 HQ SACT
• 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 programme
• 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 honour, gifts, and various other details
• Maintaining alphabetical biography books of NATO officials and all DVs
• Serving as SME on all matters regarding protocol planning software applications inside the Protocol Branch and for events in support of HQ SACT mission requirements

Requirements

The ideal candidate will have:

• 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 Cvent
• 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)

Qualifications

The successful candidate will have:

• A college degree or similar national academic qualification, or 5 years of equivalent military or professional experience in a protocol or similar environment
• Advanced Proficiency in English

Desirable Skills and Experience

Desirable skills and experience include:

• External of NATO Protocol Course Certificate
• 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, Programme and Project management (P3) course
• Previous experience working with Flag/General Officers or equivalent
• Foreign Language proficiency, particularly French

Working Details

The working location for this role is Norfolk, VA, USA. The contract duration is from November 2026 to December 2029. A valid National or NATO Secret personal security clearance is required. The successful candidate will be required to attend the NATO Protocol Course, NATO School of Oberammergau within the first six months, with tuition and travel provided.