Main purpose of job:

The British Defence Staff in the United States is part of the British Embassy located in Washington DC and is responsible for defence and security engagement with the United States government and Department of Defense.  Our purpose is to defend United Kingdom interests by strengthening the trans-Atlantic defence and security relationship.

The United States Support Group provides a range of support services to British Defence Staff working in the US, including human resource administration, welfare, medical, education and accommodation services. The Accommodation Support Team is responsible for sourcing permanent and temporary accommodation, furniture, logistics and routine support across the US. We are recruiting a new desk officer to complete our remodelled team to deliver accommodation support services. This is an exciting opportunity to make a real impact to the delivery of accommodation support to personnel and their families living in some 30 States. The role holder will be located at the NATO ACT office.

We are looking for a highly motivated individual who has a real passion for service delivery and attention to detail. Applicants should be able to operate comfortably in a high-paced environment, have good communications skills and be able to think innovatively and creatively.  Whilst experience in a housing sector would be advantageous, it is not essential; applications from candidates with transferrable skills are welcomed.  A positive attitude and strong work ethic will be paramount.

Roles and responsibilities:

• Support the delivery of all UK Ministry Of Defence accommodation services for personnel posted across the United States.
• Act as the initial customer contact point for accommodation and furniture linked enquiries ensuring the timely resolution of requests.
• Support customers in self-sourcing properties in the Virginia Beach area and the wider Network, including policy advice and lease approvals.
• Allocate furniture to customers within the specified locations, ensuring timely delivery upon arrival and successful pick-up upon departure of personnel.
• Maintain an up-to-date inventory of all furniture stock within outlined databases. Support the Accommodations Manager in the minimisation of stock holdings and management of supply risk.
• Liaise with Finance Team to arrange timely payments of for any accommodation-related expenses.
• Place purchase orders with vendors, monitor status, requisition and receive goods and services accurately and efficiently in specified accounting systems.
• Maintain up-to-date records on financial systems and ensure data accuracy and compliance with MOD policies.
• Conduct March-Outs with Virginia Beach area based personnel, supporting with resolution of any landlord disputes, and managing the process for the return of security deposits.
• Arrange temporary accommodation for entitled incoming personnel ensuring a cost effect solution.
• Assist with the upkeep and management of all records and management information.

• Must be a citizen of the USA, UK, Canada, Australia or New Zealand and have the right to live and work in the USA (see below for further information).
• Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to be professional, confident, courteous, and deal with a wide range of colleagues.
• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to multi-task and strong problem solving skills.
• Excellent customer service skills, with proven ability to take responsibility.
• Current valid driving licence.
• Basic Computer skills (such as MS Office).

Language requirements: 

Language: English

Level of language required: Fluent both spoken and written.

Under US State Department requirements, the UK Government in the US has restrictions on the type of visas our non-diplomatic staff may hold.  If you are not a US Citizen or a US Permanent Resident, or the dependent of a diplomat (with an EAD card), you may not be eligible for employment with the UK government. We cannot accept student Visas (J1, F or M) nor other forms of work Visas (I, H, P).  If you hold a work visa it is best to check on your eligibility to work for a foreign government before applying for a position. The UK Government does not routinely sponsor work visas; the job advertisement will state clearly whether sponsorship is available.