Social Secretary - Temporary Contract of 20 Weeks

The European Union Delegation to the United States of America, Washington DC is looking for:

Social Secretary - Temporary Contract of 20 Weeks (covering maternity leave)

We are

The European Union (EU) is an economic and political partnership between 27 European countries. It plays an important role in international affairs through diplomacy, trade, development aid and working with global organisations. Abroad, the EU is represented through some 140 diplomatic representations, known also as EU Delegations, which have a similar function to those of an embassy.

The EU Delegation to the United States of America in Washington, D.C. works in close coordination with the Embassies and Consulates of the 27 EU Member States. We are a full-fledged diplomatic mission and represent the European Union in dealings with the U.S. government in areas that are part of the EU’s remit.

We offer

We offer the temporary post of Social Secretary in the Head of Delegation section which consists of 11 people. This role works closely with other sections in the Delegation and with staff at the official Residence. The position will work under the supervision and responsibility of the Head of Delegation, and will be assigned the following main tasks and duties:

• Preparation, management and execution of all official and social events hosted by the Head of Delegation (HOD) and by the Deputy Head of Delegation (DHOD);
• Managing all verbal and written communications with social event guests, including US and EU high-level visitors, ensuring internal communication on events within the Delegation, and developing/maintaining contacts with external parties (US Government offices/agencies, think tanks, non-profit organizations, universities, other Embassies, etc.);
• Reviewing invitations received and consulting with other Delegation sections as necessary to make recommendations regarding appropriate course of action;
• Developing and maintaining a register of contacts as well as a filing system for past events and engagements;
• Advising the Delegation leadership and acting as the Delegation’s point of contact on all aspects of diplomatic social protocol, US social customs and airport protocol for eligible high-level visitors;
• Main contact point for EU Member States for HOMS meetings and events with HOD (including updating/circulating EU Heads of Mission contact list) and EU HOMs’ Spouses programs and activities;
• Supervising the Residence staff and Administration on issues related to the maintenance and administration of HOD Residence (including vendor contracts and payments).

The post involves regular atypical working hours including evenings, and sometimes weekends, where there are events.

We offer a competitive position in an international environment working in close coordination with colleagues across the EU Delegation. The benefits package is as follows:

• Monthly gross salary of $5,306 (excluding overtime)
• 9 personal leave days plus Public Holidays
• Flexible working hours

This is a temporary contract of 20 weeks covering maternity leave and the expected start date is mid-January 2026.

Eligibility requirements

• Minimum of High School/Secondary school diploma or equivalent; higher education an advantage;
• Minimum of 1 year’s experience relevant to the tasks of the job.

We look for

• Excellent organization and coordination skills, detailed orientated and ability to multi-task and prioritize;
• Demonstrated communication skills, excellent social and interpersonal skills, discretion on sensitive matters;
• Ability to multi-task and prioritize in a fast-moving environment, as well as to balance demands and manage needs of multiple stakeholders
• Professional, proactive and persistent as well as punctual, discreet and able to safeguard confidential matters discussed by others during performance of duties;
• Knowledge and understanding of the Washington DC international, philanthropic and events community, the U.S. Government and political system, and familiarity with think tanks, NGOs, and cultural, educational and charitable organizations;
• Working knowledge of US protocol, including Order of Precedence is an advantage;
• Excellent spoken and written command of the English language, knowledge of other European languages would be an advantage;
• Excellent computer skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook, knowledge of scheduling tools and internet applications, as well as database experience;
• Experience in an international organization, a diplomatic mission, a multicultural environment or familiarity with the European Union would be an asset.

How to apply

It is important to note that the Delegation of the European Union does not sponsor visas for local staff. Applicants must have a valid US work authorization at the time of application that does not require Delegation of the European Union sponsorship.

The applicant must send the following to be considered:

• A cover letter and resume
• The resume must also include the names and contact details of at least two referees who can attest to your professional and personal attributes in the event you are shortlisted for the post. References will only be taken up for those who are shortlisted.

Please submit your application via the Indeed.com website.

Job Types: Full-time, Contract

Pay: $5,306.00 per month

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule
• Paid time off

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Required)

Experience:

• relevant task-related: 1 year (Required)

Work Location: In person