Protocol & Operations Specialist

PROTOCOL AND OPERATIONS SPECIALIST High Commission of Barbados | Nairobi, Kenya Engagement type: Contract for services, 12 months, with option to renew Monthly compensation: KES 320,000 gross (KES 3,840,000 per annum) Application deadline: 8 August 2026 ABOUT THE MISSION The High Commission of Barbados in Nairobi serves as Barbados' resident diplomatic mission to Kenya, with concurrent accreditation to Rwanda, Tanzania, Botswana, and South Africa. The mission also operates as Barbados' Permanent Mission to the UN Environment Programme and UN-HABITAT, and houses the Middle East and Africa regional headquarters for Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI). The High Commission's core mandate spans diplomatic protocol coordination, trade and investment facilitation, public diplomacy initiatives, ministerial engagement, and knowledge management across all accredited territories. THE OPPORTUNITY We are seeking an exceptionally capable, results-driven professional on a contract basis. This role demands an experienced operator who performs effectively under pressure with autonomy and minimal direction. The diplomatic environment is fluid—priorities shift daily, and operational crises can emerge without warning. Your effectiveness will rest on staying composed and analytical when managing rapid-fire demands. We need someone who works beyond checklists, understands systemic operations, identifies operational risks before they escalate, and takes ownership of complex initiatives from triage through completion. All work is delivered on-site at the Chancery, reflecting the hands-on nature of protocol liaison, event management, and daily operations. CORE RESPONSIBILITIES AND PERFORMANCE WEIGHTINGS Success is gauged by tangible institutional outcomes. The weightings below guide resource allocation and priority sequencing, not fixed time allocation. Diplomatic Protocol and Government Relations (25%) • Process diplomatic privileges, tax exemptions, and clearances via the Integrated Protocol Management Information System (IPMIS) • Maintain direct, in-person relationships with the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, NTSA, and other relevant government bodies on privileges matters • Navigate and resolve complex, delayed, or contested clearances with host authorities, finding creative pathways to overcome administrative blockages • Submit formal requests and collect completed documentation on behalf of the High Commission • Track all protocol applications and maintain current records of pending submissions and government responses Public Diplomacy, Trade Activation and Strategic Storytelling (20%) • Scout and develop community, cultural, and public engagement opportunities that elevate Barbados' profile across Kenya and accredited states • Provide coordination and on-the-ground support for trade, tourism, and investment initiatives, with responsive problem-solving • Execute outreach campaigns to prospective students, digital nomads, investors, and priority audience segments • Lead narrative-focused digital storytelling across the Mission's communications channels, producing engaging content and campaigns that amplify Barbados' cultural heritage and economic opportunity across the region • Support event activations with tactical execution, including BTMI-led initiatives Communications, Media Relations and Network Development (15%) • Monitor and manage the Mission's general correspondence in line with external communications standards, escalating sensitive matters for guidance • Activate established networks within government ministries and regulatory agencies to resolve obstacles and accelerate approvals • Build and maintain the Mission's strategic contact database: government officials, business leaders, media representatives, and high-value networks that strengthen outreach capacity VIP Visits, Conferences and Complex Event Operations (10%) • Serve as primary operational contact for real-time problem-solving during official visits, ministerial transits, and high-level conferences • Oversee full conference execution: participant registration, delegation coordination, transportation logistics • Coordinate flight and accommodation arrangements through the Mission's travel partners, maintaining cost discipline and audit-compliant documentation • Develop precise, minute-by-minute operational schedules for senior visitors and delegations under compressed timelines Research and Policy Support (10%) • Provide analytical support for the Mission's policy initiatives, strategic positioning, and institutional knowledge management REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS • Minimum 5 years in diplomatic operations, government affairs, or mission-support roles • Proven track record in protocol management or international relations • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple competing priorities while maintaining quality standards • Fluency in English; proficiency in a second language is a strong advantage • Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and database systems • Strong written and verbal communication skills • Ability to work independently with limited supervision in a fast-moving environment • Valid Kenyan driver's license and reliable transportation preferred • Flexibility to travel occasionally within the region when required ATTRIBUTES WE SEEK • Proactive