Customs and Protocol Officer

The British Consulate General in Istanbul is part of a world-wide network representing British political, economic and consular interests overseas and is seeking to recruit a full-time Customs and Protocol Officer to join their Corporate Services Section in Istanbul. This is a challenging and busy position that will require working to a high professional standard. The role may include occasional weekend and evening work, so the candidate will need to have a flexible and adaptable approach.

Main Duties and Responsibilities:

• Deal with the Turkish authorities on the import and export of Unaccompanied Air Freight and personal items of diplomats;
• Draft letters and prepare other relevant paperwork for customs purposes in English;
• Liaise with Turkish authorities and other UK missions in Istanbul for obtaining visas;
• Deal with the airport authorities and Customs on incoming and outgoing diplomatic bags;
• Be present at the airport on VIP arrivals and departures to ensure everything goes smoothly;
• Deal with the Turkish authorities on the import and export of private vehicles for UK based staff and for official vehicles. Arrange for vehicle registration, car plates and insurance;
• Assist on customs clearance and provide other logistical support to the British Embassy and their partners;
• Imprest account management and financial reporting for expenditure;
• Liaison with the Governorship of Istanbul & Airport;
• Other Corporate Services activities as requested by managers.

Essential qualifications, skills and experience:

• Good command of English and Turkish is essential
• Effective IT skills, particularly sound in Microsoft Office applications
• Familiarity with Turkish Authorities bureaucratic procedures
• Effective communication and negotiation skills
• Ability to work under pressure and complete tasks to an agreed standard
• Have driving licence and be able to drive

Desirable qualifications, skills and experience: 

• Financial literacy

Required competencies:

Making Effective Decisions, Leading and Communicating, Collaborating and Partnering, Managing a Quality Service, Delivering at Pace, Demonstrating Resilience

Application deadline: 24 January 2018

Grade: A2 (L)

Type of Position: Full-time, Flexible working, Permanent

Working hours per week: 41.25 (Gross)

Starting yearly salary: 58,446.08 TL gross

Start Date: 1 March 2018

Other benefits and conditions of employment:

This is a full-time permanent contract for 5 working days (41.25 hours gross) per week.

The annual salary for this position is 58,446.08 TL gross, A2 level. Please note that staff members are responsible for paying any income tax required by local law.

All applicants should have the right to live and work in Turkey. The British Consulate General does not sponsor for work permits.

The successfull candidate will be subject to professional background check, security clearance and a probation period of 2 months.

Staff recruited locally by the British Consulate General in Istanbul are subject to Terms and Conditions of Service according to local Turkish employment law.

British Diplomatic Missions are equal opportunities employers, dedicated to inclusivity, a diverse workforce and valuing difference. We are committed to developing a learning organisation that enhances business performance, maximises our staff’s potential and encourages staff innovation and development.