The officer will have substantive, analytical and organisational responsibilities in support of EFTA’s engagement with partner countries outside the European Union.

Her/his areas of responsibility will be international trade policy analysis, development of concepts and tools, elaboration of corresponding documents, as well as other tasks in the different areas covered by EFTA’s free trade agreements. He/she will also participate and support EFTA Member States in negotiation processes including as desk officer for several partner countries.

• Advanced university degree, preferably in economics and/or law or political science with an international dimension;
• Specialisation in international trade policy, relevant international agreements and organisations, such as the WTO and EFTA would be an asset.

Experience

• Expertise in the field of international trade policy and rules, with sound knowledge of relevant international legal frameworks, in particular of the WTO;
• Track record in trade policy analysis and/or related research;
• Relevant work experience in international organisations, related research institutes, private sector, or national administration;
• Experience in project management;
• Expertise in trade in services and investment issues would be an asset.

Skills

·         Excellent writing skills;

·         Service-mindedness and tact;

·         Very good communication and negotiation skills;

·         Readiness to cooperate closely in an international team;

·         Ability to work under time pressure and to meet deadlines;

·         Strong organisational skills and self-reliance;

·         Open-mindedness, proactivity and flexibility, including on work portfolio;

·         Excellent Microsoft office skills (Word, Excel, Outlook, SharePoint).

Languages

• Excellent oral and written command of English (EFTA working language);
• Knowledge of French, and possibly other work-related languages, would be an asset.