Defence & Security Policy Fellow (m/f/d)

The policy fellow will be responsible for research, analysis, and commentary around the role that closer EU‑UK cooperation can play in defending Europe without solely relying on the transatlantic relationship. With proven expertise on defence and security policy, military capacity and the NATO and European frameworks for security and defence cooperation, the fellow will drive the discussion on key questions in EU‑UK relations in this area including UK integration into SAFE, broadening European nuclear deterrence and building Europe.

Main Responsibilities

• Undertake in-depth research on key topics in the field of European Security, with a particular focus on EU‑UK security/defence cooperation, European security initiatives and NATO, adaptation to new types of warfare.
• Synthesize findings to develop actionable insights and policy recommendations.
• Write comprehensive reports, policy briefs, and concise commentaries, including blog posts and media pieces, to communicate research findings, policy recommendations, and strategic insights effectively.
• Manage and expand ECFR’s policy and advocacy network by establishing strong relationships with external contacts, including donors, ECFR Council members, and key stakeholders in relevant fields.
• Represent ECFR externally at conferences, media appearances, and briefings, acting as a key spokesperson for the Programme and its initiatives.
• Engage in high‑level discussions and policy debates to raise ECFR’s profile and influence.
• Contribute to the formulation of the Programme’s strategic direction and work plan.
• Assist in the effective implementation of these strategies and ensure alignment with ECFR’s broader objectives.
• Actively shape and participate in the Programme’s social media strategy and outreach, enhancing the visibility of ECFR’s work and engaging key audiences in relevant fields.
• Collaborate with the development team, senior fellows, and Programme Directors to identify potential financial support opportunities.
• Assist in the creation of materials for prospective donors and support fundraising efforts to secure funding for Programme initiatives.
• Coordinate and organize relevant events, such as consultations, workshops, and conferences.
• Monitor the Programme’s finances, including budget drafting, expenditure tracking, and compliance with donor regulations, ensuring efficient management of resources and activities.
• Additional tasks may be assigned in line with broader ECFR organisational priorities.

Person Specification

• Educational Background: Master’s Degree in International Relations, Security and Defence, or equivalent, or relevant work experience.
• Expertise in Relevant Fields: Extensive knowledge and minimum 5 years experience in security / defence area and UK‑EU relations on security and defence.
• Research & Analytical Skills: Proven ability to conduct high‑impact research, lead research projects, and prepare detailed reports, policy briefs, and briefing papers that provide clear recommendations on complex issues.
• Policy Development & Innovation: A track record of developing innovative foreign policy proposals and creative approaches to addressing European security and defence policy.
• Network Building: Experience maintaining and developing substantial networks of contacts with policymakers, politicians, experts, media, practitioners, industry professionals, activists, and other relevant stakeholders.
• External Representation: Media experience, with the ability to represent the organization externally through conferences, briefings, and public speaking engagements.

Skills and Abilities

• Communication Skills: Exceptional written and oral communication skills in English, with the ability to present complex information clearly and persuasively. High proficiency in another European language (German, French, or Russian) is an advantage.
• Multitasking & Flexibility: Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously, adapt to changing conditions, and meet demanding deadlines. Must demonstrate flexibility in managing evolving priorities and working hours.
• IT Proficiency: High proficiency in MS Office and IT tools, including experience with databases and collaborative platforms. Experience in budgeting and financial oversight is an advantage.
• Organizational Skills: Excellent organizational abilities, attention to detail, and the capacity to handle complex tasks with precision.
• Teamwork & Independence: Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively within a multinational team. Strong interpersonal skills, with a proven ability to engage and maintain relationships at various levels of hierarchy.

Additional Qualities

• Customer Focus & High Ownership: High degree of ownership over tasks and a customer‑focused mindset.
• Willingness to Travel: Open to occasional travel and irregular working hours as required to support the Programme’s initiatives and external engagements.

What we offer

• Competitive salary according to profile with flexible & hybrid working mode.
• Convenient office location in the heart of London.
• Stimulating and open work culture at an innovative and renowned pan‑European think tank with partly hybrid work opportunities that allow flexibility while maintaining productivity and collaboration.
• Opportunity to collaborate with highly motivated and committed colleagues from diverse backgrounds across Europe, within an organization that holds a distinguished position and wide recognition within the think‑tank world.

Equal Opportunity

ECFR is an Equal Opportunity Employer and we do not discriminate against applicants due to race, ethnicity, gender, veteran status, or on the basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.