Trade Adviser – Defence & Security

Position description

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.

Job Category: Department for Business and Trade roles (DBT)
Job Subcategory: Department for Business and Trade (DBT)

Job Description (Roles and Responsibilities)

Who are we?

The British Embassy in Brussels is part of a world-wide network, representing British political, economic and consular interests overseas. The UK’s Department for Business & Trade (DBT) in Brussels is looking for a Trade Adviser for UK Defence & Security exports, with a focus on identifying and securing NATO-related contract opportunities.

Our daily work relies on the input of dedicated individuals who engage on many different topics and activities. We seek to employ a diverse range of candidates who bring their own talents and perspectives to the role. We have a strong corporate agenda that ensures we create a positive and inclusive working environment where everyone is valued for their contribution.

We aim to be a diverse and inclusive employer, welcoming to people of all backgrounds. The senior leadership is committed to ensuring that we are a supportive and fair place to work.

Our Setting:

The DBT Brussels team consists of approximately 12 staff members, based in the Embassy in Brussels. It is part of the DBT Europe Region and works closely with colleagues in London and across the UK to improve market access for business and boost exports and investment. DBT’s work is crucial to supporting the UK economy.

Main purpose of job:

Contribute to the UK’s economic growth by promoting defence and security export opportunities and support UK companies in securing commercial contracts with NATO, Belgium and Luxembourg.

However, all roles and responsibilities in DBT Brussels are flexible and our staff adapt their work in line with Ministerial priorities and developments in the British and local markets. Role includes any other duties that may reasonably be required in support of the wider work of the Embassy.

Roles and responsibilities:

• Identify and promote defence and security export opportunities;
• Provide tailored advice and support to UK companies seeking to develop business opportunities within NATO, Belgium and Luxembourg;
• Collaborate with UK companies to enhance their competitiveness and readiness to win contracts, including with pipeline development and strategic planning;
• Build and maintain a strong network of stakeholders and partners;
• Contribute to the delivery of services in support of UK companies;
• Organise and participate in relevant industry events;
• Work collaboratively with different teams across multiple locations, as well as with commercial partners, as part of structured campaign activities;
• Contribute to the work of the Embassy trade team ensuring the delivery of agreed and set trade team targets, including pipeline development and export wins;
• Contribute to the wider diplomatic agenda of the British Embassy.

Essential qualifications, skills and experience

Our Ideal Candidate shows:

• Solid understanding of the defence and/or security sector;
• Full professional proficiency in English, written and spoken, minimum C1 for CEFR framework);
• Minimum 3 years of experience in relevant field (trade, international business development, accounts management, defence, security);
• Proven ability to engage with businesses in an international environment, including cross-cultural communication;
• Proven experience in account management;
• Ability to build strong customer relationships, including engagement with senior-level business contacts;
• Strong organisational, presentation, writing and networking skills;
• Flexible, pro-active and entrepreneurial mindset, with a problem solving approach;
• Strong time management skills, capable of handling multiple priorities within the agreed deadlines;
• Excellent interpersonal and teamwork skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across diverse teams;
• Proficient in standard IT tools and systems (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite, CRM platforms).

Desirable qualifications, skills and experience

Nice to have:

• Strong understanding of NATO structures, decision-making processes and procurement mechanisms;
• Familiarity with the UK, Belgium and Luxembourg defence and security sectors;
• Business level knowledge of French and/or Dutch.

Required behaviours

Delivering at Pace, Managing a Quality Service, Seeing the Big Picture, Working Together.

Application deadline: 28 October 2025
Grade: Executive Officer (EO)
Type of Position: Full-time, Fixed Term
Working hours per week: 36.25
Duration of Post: 12 months
Region: Europe, Eastern Europe & Central Asia
Type of Post: British Embassy
Number of vacancies: 1
Salary Currency: EUR
Salary: €5,499.34
Тype of Salary: monthly
Start Date: 1 December 2025

Other benefits and conditions of employment

This is a full-time contract for 5 working days (36.25 hours net) per week. The position will be filled on a “replacement contract” to cover a leave of absence. It is anticipated that the staff member will return in December 2026. This is only a guide and any possible earlier return or extension to this date would be discussed with the successful candidate.

The monthly gross salary for this position is €5,499.34 (EO) level. In addition, we offer an extensive salary package, which includes a 13^th month, luncheon vouchers, optional hospitalisation insurance (subject to monthly employee contribution), reimbursement of public transport and a lot more. We offer more days of annual leave than the Belgian requirements.

Please note that Belgian nationals will be paid their salary gross and are expected to comply with their tax obligations through completion of a tax return to the Belgian authorities. Non-Belgian nationals will receive their salary net, minus the deduction of an equivalent level of Belgian tax retained at source. Further information on this will be given to candidates during the recruitment process.

Staff recruited locally by the British Diplomatic Missions in Belgium are subject to Terms and Conditions of Service according to local Belgian employment law.

The successful candidates will be subject to professional background checks and security clearance.

Passport: officers are expected to be in possession of a passport due to the possibility that they may be asked to undertake business travel.

Visa/work permit requirements: Candidates must currently hold the independent right to live and work in Belgium and be prepared to ensure that right remains throughout the scope of the contract.

Please note that it is your responsibility to ensure you meet the legal requirements to live and work in this country.

Application instructions

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