The British Embassy in Ashgabat is part of a worldwide diplomatic network, representing British political, economic and consular interests overseas and is now looking to recruit a Corporate Services Manager.

The Corporate Services team is responsible for the efficient and cost-effective running of the Embassy, in line with the policies and practices of the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and the laws of Turkmenistan.

The Corporate Services Manager (CSM) is team leader, providing direction and support to ensure that all aspects of the Embassy’s administration – finance, human resources, estates and other functions – are carried out in good time and to FCDO standards.

What does this role involve?

The CSM is responsible for the overall delivery of corporate services to the Embassy, working closely with specialist staff in FCDO, external contractors and suppliers, and counterparts in other missions. The job is varied: as well as the specific areas of responsibility below, the CSM plays a key role in advising the Deputy Head of Mission and Ambassador on any issue that might affect the Embassy’s working practices or staff. The successful candidate will therefore be someone who can demonstrate adaptability, as well as high levels of initiative and integrity.

The CSM is also the British Embassy’s Pro Consul, providing consular assistance and services to British people living and visiting Turkmenistan.

The CSM reports directly to the Deputy Head of Mission (DHM), who is Consul.

Main Responsibilities:

Finance 30%

Responsibility for managing the Embassy’s budget, including forecasting and monitoring spend within monthly and quarterly deadlines, and end of financial year reconciliation. Ensure that the Embassy has appropriate contract and payment arrangements with Embassy suppliers, reviewing value for money and service standards regularly. Ensure compliance with all FCDO financial controls, including credit card use and cash payments. Line management of the Embassy’s Finance Officer.

Human Resources 25%
Ensure that the terms and conditions of staff employment are consistent with FCDO standards and Turkmen law and are reviewed regularly. Champion best practice in the recruitment and induction of new staff, and the regular performance management process followed by staff and their line managers. Promote learning and development, wellbeing and other initiatives that foster a positive working culture for all staff

Estates 15%
Oversee works that ensure the Embassy is a safe environment and sufficiently equipped for staff to operate effectively. Manage arrangements for the residential accommodation of diplomatic staff, including leases, maintenance and record-keeping.

Consular Assistance 10%

Provide advice or practical assistance to British citizens who are in Turkmenistan and seek consular support from the Embassy. Support the DHM/Consul in the Embassy’s preparedness for any crisis situation that might occur in Turkmenistan or a neighbouring country.

Other 20%

Lead the corporate services team, supporting the development of staff to carry out their responsibilities to the highest FCDO standards. Support senior leaders in the corporate services aspects of the Embassy’s business planning and governance processes. Maintain the Embassy’s relationships with all government and private institutions whose cooperation is vital to the smooth running of the Embassy.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with ability to adapt communication style to different situations in English, Russian and Turkmen
• Fluency at a C1 level in English and Russian according to CEFR Framework*;
• Fluency at a B2 level in Turkmen according to CEFR Framework *;
• Experience of leading a team or formal line management;
• Minimum of 3 years working in a role that included some responsibility for budgeting/finance functions;
• Previous experience in a customer-facing role and evidence of the ability to respond to a wide range of customer needs;
• IT literate and with advanced skills in Excel.