The search has begun for the next Governor of Gibraltar, as the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office on Tuesday published the role on its Civil Service Jobs website with a start date of May, 2024.
The FCDO described the role of the Governor as one which is “high profile and highly political…with the scrutiny that can follow”.
In advertising for the person who will succeed the present Governor of Gibraltar, Vice Admiral Sir David Steel, the FCDO flagged the ongoing negotiations for a treaty on Gibraltar’s post-Brexit relations with the EU.
“The UK, with Gibraltar, is negotiating with the EU on Gibraltar’s future relationship with the EU,” the advert read.
“Whilst we expect those negotiations to be complete by the start of this posting, there is also the chance that we will face a further period without a negotiated outcome.”
“The territory could be going through a period of change as it adapts to a new relationship.”
The start date is set to be May 2024 on a salary of £95,000 and a fixed contract for four years.
The FCDO said the constitutional relationship between the UK and Gibraltar brings with it a range of rights and responsibilities on both sides, and that the Governor, working with elected representatives in Gibraltar, “is key to making this relationship work”.
“Gibraltar’s location means security issues remain a strategic priority,” the role description said.
“Under the Gibraltar Constitution, the Governor (and ultimately the UK) holds competence over defence and internal security issues, so you will lead on assessing and mitigating potential threats to Gibraltar and UK interests, working closely with MOD, Commander British Forces (CBF) Gibraltar and the Government of Gibraltar.”
“You will chair, jointly with the Gibraltar Chief Minister, the Gibraltar Contingency Council, leading on the defence and security aspects of Gibraltar’s resilience.”
“As Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Gibraltar Regiment, you will work closely with CBF, supporting his objectives to ensure a modern agile military presence in Gibraltar.”
“An effective Governor will lead with authority and be able to show a genuine interest in the people, economy and society of Gibraltar, working with community leaders to promote a diverse and inclusive society.”
“The Governor is patron of a number of Gibraltar charities.”
“You will lead a small team to deliver quality outcomes.”
“Working in collaboration with Europe Group in FCDO and across Whitehall, you and your team will provide policy advice and guidance in support of UK objectives for Gibraltar.”
“You will continue the progress made to modernise corporate practices within the Convent (The Governor’s Office) and play a full part in the corporate leadership of the Europe Network.”
A requirement for the role is that the individual is a British citizen at the time of application, and it is once again open to individuals from the public and private sector.
Other things that fall under essential criteria for it include the ability to project authority and inspire confidence, as the Governor is a “very visible role” in Gibraltar that can be subject to scrutiny and public comment.
International experience, a track record of successful strategic leadership, political awareness, experience of delivering effectively and excellent communication skills also form part of the role.
“An understanding or experience of defence and security issues is highly desirable, given the Governor’s role as Commander in Chief,” the advert read.
“An understanding of European and security issues would be beneficial for the role, as would pre-existing knowledge of Spanish.”
“Additional language-learning developmental and support is available for the successful candidate.”
“Diversity is vital to the success of this role, and to the Civil Service as a whole.”
“We actively welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds, with different experiences and perspectives - and we are committed to ensuring that we work in an inclusive way that means everyone in the Civil Service can perform at their best.”
The deadline for applications is at 11.55pm on Sunday April 2, 2023, and applicants must submit a CV and a personal statement.
Shortlisted candidates would have to carry out three assessments, including a media test, before an interview in front of a panel.
A spokesman for the Convent told the Chronicle it is aware that the advert was published by the FCDO yesterday, and that the length of time to get applications in is “standard practice”.