The British Government is an inclusive and diversity-friendly employer. We value difference, promote equality and challenge discrimination, enhancing our organisational capability. We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender identity, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status or other category protected by law. We promote family-friendly flexible working opportunities, where operational and security needs allow. The FCDO operates an agile workforce and to facilitate this, you may be required to undertake other duties from time to time, as we may reasonably require.
Are you passionate about engineering, manufacturing, space and automotive? Do you want to work at the heart of economic diplomacy, driving international collaboration and building partnerships that make an impact?
Who are we?
The British Consulate General in Munich is part of a world-wide network, representing British political, economic and consular interests overseas. The Consulate General is now looking for a Head of Advanced Engineering and Manufacturing (AEM) to join our Department for Business and Trade (DBT) team, based in Munich.
We aim to be a diverse and inclusive employer, welcoming to people of all backgrounds. The senior leadership is committed to ensuring that we are a supportive and fair place to work. The Germany Network values are kindness, inclusivity, honesty, professionalism and responsibility. These values guide how we work on a daily basis, and all staff must adhere to them.
Main purpose of job:
The postholder for this role will head up a team focused on driving forward UK government priorities in Germany across automotive, space, aerospace and wider manufacturing supply chain in the areas of trade, investment and policy. This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in the UK-Germany relationship, following the landmark Kensington Treaty, and help shape future collaboration that is critical to our mutual competitiveness.
Roles and responsibilities:
- Shape strategic direction
Lead the development and delivery of an ambitious engagement strategy for the Advanced Engineering & Manufacturing (AEM) sector, driving tangible outcomes across exports, investment and market access. - Lead and inspire a high-performing team
Manage and develop a small team (up to 3 staff), setting clear direction, supporting delivery and fostering a collaborative, high-performance culture. - Build and leverage senior networks
Establish and maintain strong relationships with senior stakeholders across industry and government in both Germany and the UK. - Provide insight and thought leadership
Oversee the production of high-quality briefings and reporting for senior audiences, including Ministers and senior officials. - Drive commercial impact
Support UK and German businesses to trade and invest, offering practical, commercially focused advice to unlock opportunities. - Influence policy and remove barriers
Identify market access and regulatory challenges, working with partners to address barriers and improve the operating environment. - Represent the UK Government
Act as a visible and credible representative of DBT at key events, including trade fairs, conferences and high-level bilateral engagements. - Contribute to the wider mission
Support broader Consulate-General priorities as required, including during periods of crisis response.
This is a high-impact role at the heart of the UK-Germany economic relationship.
Our Ideal Candidate shows:
- Proficiency in English and German (written and spoken, minimum of C1 level for CEFR* framework);
- 5+ years of relevant work experience in business development and/or international trade in fast-paced and stakeholder-focused environments;
- Management experience – coaching, setting priorities, and maintaining high-quality delivery;
- Entrepreneurial and proactive, spotting opportunities and driving forward without waiting for direction;
- Strong problem‑solving mindset, able to sustain momentum through ambiguity;
- Exceptional interpersonal skills, with ability to build rapport, influence and represent confidently;
- Commercially aware, comfortable navigating change and guiding others through shifting priorities;
- Energetic communicator with a bias for action, effective across teams and varied environments;
- Availability to travel within Germany and occasionally to the UK.
Nice to have:
- Previous experience in Automotive, Space, broader AEM sectors or working with the UK;
- Knowledge of or previous experience in trade or economic policy-making;
- Experience working with companies in Germany.
For further details on this internship and information on how to apply, please follow the link.