Assistant to the Defence Attache
British Embassy
Total years of experience :17 years, 10 Months
• Responsible for all administrative support to the Defence Attaché.
• Responsible for all aspects of visit programmes for a range of visitors to the UAE, including Cabinet ministers, VIPs, senior military officers and support teams.
• Required to brief the British Ambassador and his Diplomatic Staff on all matters associated with the UK military, UAE related and regional matters.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with both UK and UAE Diplomatic Staff.
• Solely responsible for the safekeeping of all classified material within the Defence Section; Holder of the highest level of security clearance (DV).
• Control and monitor the Defence Sections annual delegated budgets.
• Often voluntarily, involved in the organisation of a multitude of high profile events at the British Embassy, some of which attended by upwards of 700 guests.
• Direct responsibility for over £2million in Service (non-public) Funds in the Academy’s bank accounts, which were required to balance on a daily basis.
• Responsible for the timely and accurate payment of invoices for the Academy, along with monthly mess bills for some 500 personnel. Also completed weekly accurate checks of stock.
• Additionally was required to brief the Commanding Officer periodically with statements of the accounts and to conduct financial business plans to advise on what funds were available.
• Responsible for ensuring the security of cash and payment tools.
• Gave advice and guidance to the Fund Managers on all aspects of their fund.
• Mentored, inspired and guided young men and women through all aspects of the strict process of joining the British Army.
• Provided up to date accurate information to potential recruits and assisted them with every aspect recruitment process, along with giving applicants advice on the best career options to suit both the individual and the Army.
• Liaised with local schools and colleges, both to promote the Armed Forces and to offer advice on a range of specialised skills useful to school leavers.
• Exceeded both personal and office recruitment targets consecutively for two years.