About the Organization

The British Embassy in Addis Ababa stands as a cornerstone of diplomatic excellence, representing one of the United Kingdom’s largest and most vital diplomatic missions on the African continent. For decades, this institution has served as a bridge between two nations, fostering a partnership built on mutual respect, shared development goals, and strategic cooperation. The embassy’s mission is multifaceted, encompassing high-level diplomacy, international trade expansion, and the management of one of the UK’s most significant development portfolios globally.

At the heart of the embassy’s operations is a commitment to fostering stability and prosperity. Whether it is through the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) or the Department for Business and Trade (DBT), the organization works tirelessly to address complex global challenges. From managing humanitarian responses in fragile regions to facilitating multi-million-dollar trade deals, the embassy’s work directly impacts the lives of millions and shapes the future of the Horn of Africa.

The work culture within the British Embassy is defined by its multiculturalism and high professional standards. Employees are part of a diverse global network of experts who value innovation, integrity, and collaboration. Working here means engaging with international colleagues and local experts in an environment that encourages the sharing of ideas and the pursuit of excellence in every project, regardless of scale.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are not just buzzwords at the British Embassy; they are core principles that guide recruitment and daily operations. The organization understands that a diverse workforce brings a wealth of perspectives necessary for solving complex international issues. By fostering an inclusive environment, the embassy ensures that every staff member feels valued and empowered to contribute their best work toward the mission.

The British Embassy Addis Ababa is a champion of equal opportunity and actively seeks to build a workforce that reflects the diversity of the communities it serves. We strongly encourage women and individuals from underrepresented groups to apply for these vacancies. We are committed to providing a supportive professional environment where all employees, regardless of background, have the opportunity to thrive and advance their careers.

Job Description

The available positions of Senior Programme Manager and Deputy Country Director are critical to the strategic success of the UK Government’s mission in Ethiopia. These roles are designed for visionary leaders who can navigate the intersection of policy, commerce, and international development. The impact of these roles extends far beyond administrative tasks; they are about shaping the British government's legacy and influence in the region.

The Senior Programme Manager will be a linchpin in delivering complex development initiatives, particularly in high-stakes environments. This role requires a balance of technical rigour and diplomatic tact, ensuring that UK aid and resources are utilized effectively and transparently. The strategic importance of this role lies in its ability to translate high-level policy into tangible results on the ground.

On the trade side, the Deputy Country Director (SEO) for the Department for Business and Trade will be instrumental in driving economic growth. This role involves opening doors for UK businesses and strengthening the commercial ties that fuel the Ethiopian economy. By facilitating investment and trade, the Deputy Country Director plays a vital role in the sustainable development of the local private sector.

A "day-in-the-life" in these roles involves high-level stakeholder engagement, strategic planning, and team leadership. One moment you might be briefling senior diplomats, and the next, you could be mentoring a junior staff member or reviewing a multi-year project budget. The fast-paced nature of the embassy ensures that no two days are the same, providing a continuous learning curve for ambitious professionals.

Career development is a primary focus for the UK Government. Successful candidates will have access to world-class training, mentorship programs, and the chance to work within a global network. These positions offer a unique platform for professional growth, allowing individuals to build a robust portfolio of international experience that is highly valued in the global job market.

Job Positions and Requirements

1. Senior Programme Manager

Educational Qualification: A relevant University Degree in International Development, Management, Public Policy, or a related field. Professional certifications such as PRINCE2, MSP, or PMI are highly desirable.

Work Experience: Extensive experience in managing complex programmes, particularly within fragile or conflict-affected settings. Proficiency in FCDO Programme and Project Management (PPM) processes is a significant advantage.

Job Location: Addis Ababa

Salary: USD 2,198.28 (subject to tax and statutory deductions)

No. Required: Not specified

2. Deputy Country Director (SEO), Department for Business and Trade

Educational Qualification: A Postgraduate or Undergraduate degree in Business Administration, Economics, International Relations, or a related professional qualification.

Work Experience: Proven track record in supporting business development or commercial opportunities. Experience working with government institutions, NGOs, and the private sector is essential.

Job Location: Addis Ababa

Salary: USD 2,198.28 (subject to tax and statutory deductions)

No. Required: Not specified

Required Skills and Competencies

For the Senior Programme Manager role, leadership and the ability to deliver through others are paramount. Candidates must demonstrate high-level financial and risk management expertise, as well as the ability to prioritize heavy workloads in a dynamic environment. Excellent communication skills in English are mandatory, and proficiency in Arabic is considered an asset for regional coordination.

The Deputy Country Director must possess strong client-facing skills and the ability to build lasting professional relationships. Proficiency in both English and Amharic is required to navigate the local and international business landscapes effectively. A deep understanding of investment strategy and the Ethiopian business environment will be key to success in this commercial role.

Employment Type and Salary

These positions are offered as full-time roles within the UK Government’s diplomatic framework in Ethiopia. The British Embassy provides a stable and secure employment environment, offering staff the chance to build a long-term career within an international system known for its fair practices and professional integrity.

The compensation package is designed to be competitive and reflects the high level of responsibility associated with these roles. The starting salary is USD 2,198.28, subject to standard tax and statutory deductions. Beyond the financial compensation, employees benefit from exposure to high-level policy work and a collaborative atmosphere that prioritizes professional well-being.

How to Apply

The application process for these vacancies is conducted strictly through the official UK Government recruitment portal. This ensures a transparent and merit-based selection process for all candidates. It is important to note that applications submitted through third-party websites or physical drop-offs will not be accepted.

During this initial application phase, candidates are not required to submit scanned copies of their educational certificates, identification documents, or other attachments. The focus of the initial stage is on the information provided within the online application form and the candidate’s professional profile.

The requirement for original documentation and certificates is reserved for a later stage. Candidates who progress through the initial screening will be asked to present their original credentials for physical verification during the interview process. This approach streamlines the application for all parties involved.

Please be aware that the British Embassy receives a high volume of applications for its vacancies. Consequently, only those candidates who are shortlisted for an interview will be contacted by the recruitment team. If you do not hear from the embassy within several weeks of the deadline, you may assume your application was not successful on this occasion.

Once the application deadline has passed, the recruitment panel will conduct a thorough review of all submissions. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to participate in a series of assessments or interviews designed to evaluate their technical skills and leadership potential. The embassy aims to complete the selection process in a timely manner to ensure a smooth transition for the new hires.

Interested candidates should submit their application via the official UK Government recruitment platform linked below as the primary and only channel for consideration.

Application Deadline

April 19, 2026

Official Application Link