Driver and Administrative Assistant - LE2 - DFAT - London

Additional Benefits

Shift allowance of £312.84 per fortnight, up to 11% employer pension contribution, 20 days of recreational leave and up to 14 public holiday days

The successful applicant will be engaged as a locally engaged staff member by the Australian High Commission, London.

Please be advised that the Australian High Commission, London does not assist with relocation. Any costs associated with taking up the position would be the responsibility of the successful candidate.

About the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

The role of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is to advance the interests of Australia and Australians internationally. This involves strengthening Australia’s security, enhancing Australia’s prosperity, delivering an effective and high-quality overseas aid program, and helping Australian travellers and Australians overseas.

The department provides foreign, trade and development policy advice to the Australian Government. DFAT also works with other Australian government agencies to drive coordination of Australia’s pursuit of global, regional, and bilateral interests.

About the Position

The Driver and Administrative Assistant is responsible for safely driving, regularly maintaining and proactively monitoring the High Commission’s vehicle fleet, delivering a high standard of driving and punctuality to ensure the safety of passengers at all times. The position also assists with a range of general administrative duties as requested.

Working alongside another Driver and Administrative Assistant, the role operates on a rotating shift basis, alternating between early (07:30 to 16:30) and late (11:00 to 20:00) shifts for a total of 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday. Flexibility is essential as the position may require work outside of standard hours, including occasional weekend duties and overnight travel.

The key responsibilities of the position include, but are not limited to:

• Safely transport the High Commissioner, Official Visitors (Ministers, Parliamentarians and other senior officials) and High Commission Staff to scheduled appointments, events and airports / train stations according to program schedules.
• Operate official vehicles in full compliance with the UK Highway Code and in accordance with the High Commission’s policy and procedures.
• Maintain a punctual, reliable and professional manner, being mindful of appointment times and journey scheduling.
• Develop and maintain good knowledge of location of offices, buildings and other sites visited by High Commission staff in London and elsewhere in the UK, actively using GPS, maps and local knowledge to plan and research driving routes and ensure timely arrival at specified destinations.
• Maintain accurate and complete vehicle logbooks, fuel and maintenance data, including details of regular vehicle servicing (checking oil, water, tyre pressure, brakes, lights and fuel) and vehicle interior and exterior cleaning.
• Assist with Mailroom duties, working with colleagues to process unclassified mail and assist with mail transportation including collecting and delivering invitations, letters, goods and packages as directed.
• Assist with a range of general administrative and other duties as directed to support the work of other colleagues, including assisting with meetings, events and high-level visits.

Qualifications/Experience

Essential

• Valid UK driving licence with a clean driving record.
• Relevant professional experience, such as VIP/Executive transport or driving for an Embassy, High Commission or other international organisation with knowledge of protocols for UK government offices and other sites.
• Extensive geographic knowledge of central London and its road network.
• Ability to plan travel routes and provide advice on alternate routes, including ability to read maps and follow directions using GPS equipment and smart phone mapping applications.
• Basic vehicle maintenance skills, with the ability to perform routine checks and report defects.
• Demonstrable discretion, courtesy and consistently professional demeanour.
• Strong client focus, with the ability to provide high quality services for a wide range of stakeholders.
• Effective interpersonal skills with the ability to work well as part of a team.
• Fluency in written and spoken English.
• IT literacy with the ability to use computer-based software systems including Microsoft Office.
• Flexibility to work variable hours and undertake overtime as required.
• Willingness to complete First Aid Training
• Ability to obtain a Heathrow airport pass and airside drivers licence (requires 5 years of employment references).

Desirable

• Professional driving qualification, such as IAM Road Smart Advanced Driving (or similar) or Defensive Driving.
• Holder of British Chauffeurs Guild or other similar accreditations would be advantageous.

Security Requirements

• An NV1 or higher Australian Government security clearance or the ability to obtain and maintain such would be desirable but not essential.

Selection Criteria

Please click 'Apply' to view the selection criteria and attach to your application a 500-word statement that addresses these. Please include succinct, relevant examples that support your claims against the role. The panel may not assess responses which exceed the word limit.

The Human Resources Section based in the Australian High Commission, London is responsible for managing all recruitment processes across the European region.

We are committed to providing an inclusive and diverse workplace where all employees are valued. We appreciate the experiences, skills and perspectives of all individuals. We actively encourage applications from people from diverse backgrounds who share our values.