Job Description

We are seeking a Global Affairs and Protocol Officer for a 2-year-regular position (renewable) to work within the Global Affairs and Communications Unit at the International Vaccine Institute in Seoul, Korea. (Duty station: Seoul, Korea)

Job Description

The Global Affairs and Protocol Officer plays a critical role in strengthening IVI’s relationships with state parties, potential member countries, and international partners. This position oversees diplomatic protocol, coordinates high-level visits and events, supports country engagement strategies, and contributes to strategic communications and departmental operations across all Global Affairs and Communications Unit activities.

Key Roles & Responsibilities

1. Lead Protocol and Diplomatic Engagement

Ensure proper protocol is observed in all diplomatic engagements involving IVI leadership and high-level visitors.
Develop briefing materials, run-of-show documents, and talking points for protocol events, including Global Council meetings.
Advise IVI leadership and staff on diplomatic etiquette and precedence.

2. Manage Government Relations and Country Outreach

Support strategic outreach to embassies and government agencies of both member and prospective member countries.
Conduct research and analysis on foreign policy trends, development assistance, and global health priorities to identify opportunities for collaboration and funding.
Assist in the development of bilateral initiatives such as fellowships, Collaboration Centers, and co-funded research programs.

3. Coordinate Global Affairs Documentation and Strategic Communication

Draft and manage diplomatic communications, talking points, and promotional materials for international engagement.
Oversee recordkeeping and reporting of IVI’s collaborations with foreign governments and multilateral partners.
Monitor global and regional developments and brief senior staff on relevant updates that may impact IVI’s external engagement.

4. Support Departmental Operations and Cross-functional Collaboration

Collaborate with other IVI departments to support embassy outreach and engagement with foreign governments as needed.
Contribute to internal coordination and operational effectiveness within the department.
Supervise and direct volunteer interns supporting global and local engagement efforts.

5. Strategic Global Health Diplomacy Support and Planning

Keep abreast on current global health policies and practices related to IVI’s mission, vision, programmatic, and funding activities.
Propose and develop diplomatic activities and milestones to advance Global Affairs and Communications engagements and strategic plans.
Serve as a potential resource, in addition to Global Affairs and Communications Deputy Director General and Director, to Director General and other leadership across the IVI matrix.

Job Requirements and Qualifications

1. Education Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in International Relations, Political Science, Global Health, or a related field; Master’s degree preferred.

2. Related Field Work Experience

10 years’ experience with an undergraduate degree or 8 years’ experience with a master’s degree in related field: government, R&D, health, international relations, or administration.

3. Technical and Professional Skills / Knowledge

Demonstrated experience working at or engaging with embassies, ministries, or multilateral institutions.
Knowledge of global health institutions and partnerships is a plus.
Strong organizational and interpersonal skills, with an eye for detail and cultural sensitivity.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently in a fast-paced international environment.