Policy and Communications Adviser (Chevening Programme)

About the role

The British Embassy in Lisbon is looking for a Bilateral Policy and Communications Adviser to join its Political and Economic Section. The post supports the First Secretary Bilateral and Comms, manages the UK's Chevening scholarship programme in Portugal and Cabo Verde, and provides light administrative support to the wider section and internal communications for the UK in Portugal team. It is a full-time, temporary position of 35 hours per week, starting 4 January 2027.

Key responsibilities

• Support the delivery of the UK in Portugal and UK in Cabo Verde Country Business Plan, with a likely focus on education, the International Education Strategy and the UK Alumni Network in Portugal
• Lead, design and deliver internal communications, agreeing priority content and messaging with the Deputy Head of Mission, and give ad hoc support on external communications
• Manage the Chevening programme day to day, including scholar recruitment and support, webinars, social media, outreach events and alumni engagement, and help identify partners and formalise sponsorship agreements
• Arrange internal meetings for the Political and Economic section, coordinate information with the Political and Economic Counsellor and the Ambassador's office, and handle ad hoc administrative tasks such as stationery orders

Required profile

• Excellent English and Portuguese, at least C1 level, assessed at interview
• Experience and interest in public-facing communications, including copywriting and design, and a confident use of social media
• Basic camera skills and a willingness to develop them
• Strong teamwork, self-management and ability to handle several priorities at once
• Pre-existing work authorisation for Portugal; the Embassy does not sponsor work permits

Required skills

• Microsoft Office and Microsoft Teams; AI tools are an advantage
• Copywriting, social media and basic photography

What we offer

• Gross annual salary of EUR 25,725.71 plus a monthly meal allowance of EUR 193.60
• Uncertain term contract of up to 16 months, with a 30-day probation period
• Flexible working opportunities and a learning and training offering