Foreign Policy Officer
Tasks & duties
Foreign policy officers may do some or all of the following:
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work in Wellington, and in New Zealand embassies, high commissions and consulates overseas to promote New Zealand's interests
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seek improved access for New Zealand exports and help organise trade missions
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negotiate treaties and agreements with other countries
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liaise with local authorities in other countries
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study and report on political and economic developments
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help develop foreign and trade policy
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draft briefing papers and submissions
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provide information and advice to other government departments on international issues
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inform industries about other countries' trade policies
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communicate New Zealand's position on a range of issues to foreign diplomats, organisations and at conferences
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organise official visits by New Zealand ministers and officials
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protect the interests of New Zealand citizens overseas
Skills & knowledge
Foreign policy officers need to have:
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an interest in, and knowledge of political, economic, industrial, social and cultural aspects of New Zealand life
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knowledge of the politics and cultures of other countries
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knowledge of international affairs
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excellent communication and people skills
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excellent analytical skills
The ability to communicate in a foreign language is useful but not essential.
Entry requirements
To become a foreign policy officer you need to have one of the following:
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a conjoint degree that includes either a Bachelor of Law, or an economics degree
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an Honours degree
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a postgraduate degree.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade website - working for us
Secondary education
A tertiary entrance qualification is required.
Tertiary education
Tertiary subjects that are useful for foreign policy work include:
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political studies
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law
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economics
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history
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international relations
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foreign languages
Training on the job
Foreign policy officers gain many skills on the job. In their first year, new recruits participate in a series of training modules, including:
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international trade policy
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international law
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representation and negotiation skills
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human rights, disarmament and environmental issues
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Māori protocol and tikanga reo issues
Useful experience
Useful experience for foreign policy officers includes:
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work with international organisations
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legal work
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economics and trade work
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public policy work
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experience working with people from different cultures
Related courses
Economics
Foreign Languages
International Law
Policy Studies
Political Science
For more information, please refer to Career Services.
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