Head of Advanced Engineering and Manufacturing

The British Government is an inclusive and diversity-friendly employer. We value difference, promote equality and challenge discrimination, enhancing our organisational capability. We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender identity, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status or other category protected by law. We promote family-friendly flexible working opportunities, where operational and security needs allow. The FCDO operates an agile workforce and to facilitate this, you may be required to undertake other duties from time to time, as we may reasonably require.

Are you passionate about engineering, manufacturing, space and automotive? Do you want to work at the heart of economic diplomacy, driving international collaboration and building partnerships that make an impact?

Who are we?

TheBritish Consulate General in Munich is part of a world-wide network, representing British political, economic and consular interests overseas. The Consulate General is now looking for a Head of Advanced Engineering and Manufacturing (AEM) to join our Department for Business and Trade (DBT) team, based in Munich.

We aim to be a diverse and inclusive employer, welcoming to people of all backgrounds. The senior leadership is committed to ensuring that we are a supportive and fair place to work. The Germany Network values are kindness, inclusivity, honesty, professionalism and responsibility. These values guide how we work on a daily basis, and all staff must adhere to them.

Main purpose of job:

The postholder for this role will head up a team focused on driving forward UK government priorities in Germany across automotive, space, aerospace and wider manufacturing supply chain in the areas of trade, investment and policy. This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in the UK‑Germany relationship, following the landmark Kensington Treaty, and help shape future collaboration that is critical to our mutual competitiveness.

Roles and responsibilities:

Shape strategic direction

• Lead the development and delivery of an ambitious engagement strategy for the Advanced Engineering & Manufacturing (AEM) sector, driving tangible outcomes across exports, investment and market access.

Lead and inspire a high‑performing team

• Manage and develop a small team (up to 3 staff), setting clear direction, supporting delivery and fostering a collaborative, high-performance culture.

Build and leverage senior networks

• Establish and maintain strong relationships with senior stakeholders across industry and government in both Germany and the UK.

Provide insight and thought leadership

• Oversee the production of high-quality briefings and reporting for senior audiences, including Ministers and senior officials.

Drive commercial impact

• Support UK and German businesses to trade and invest, offering practical, commercially focused advice to unlock opportunities.

Influence policy and remove barriers

• Identify market access and regulatory challenges, working with partners to address barriers and improve the operating environment.

Represent the UK Government

• Act as a visible and credible representative of DBT at key events, including trade fairs, conferences and high-level bilateral engagements.

Contribute to the wider mission

• Support broader Consulate-General priorities as required, including during periods of crisis response.

This is a high-impact role at the heart of the UK‑Germany economic relationship.

• Proficiency in English and German (written and spoken, minimum of C1 level for CEFR* framework);
• 5+ years of relevant work experience in business development and/or international trade in fast-paced and stakeholder-focused environments;
• Management experience - coaching, setting priorities, and maintaining high-quality delivery;
• Entrepreneurial and proactive, spotting opportunities and driving forward without waiting for direction;
• Strong problem‑solving mindset, able to sustain momentum through ambiguity;
• Exceptional interpersonal skills, with ability to build rapport, influence and represent confidently;
• Commercially aware, comfortable navigating change and guiding others through shifting priorities;
• Energetic communicator with a bias for action, effective across teams and varied environments;
• Availability to travel within Germany and occasionally to the UK.

Nice to have:

• Previous experience in Automotive, Space, broader AEM sectors or working with the UK;
• Knowledge of or previous experience in trade or economic policy-making;
• Experience working with companies in Germany.

This is a full time (37,5 hours a week), fixed‑term 2 year contract with the possibility of a permanent contract subject to performance and funding. Salary €87,156.00 - rising to a maximum of approx. €97,902.00 - gross per annum after a qualifying period in addition to performance related pay (salary is not negotiable). Candidate must have pre-existing work authorisation in Germany in order to apply.

Staff recruited locally by the British Consulate General are subject to Terms and Conditions of Service according to local German employment law.

The start date mentioned in the advert is indicative only. The appointment may commence earlier or later depending on several factors.

Visa/work permit requirements:

Candidates must currently hold the independent right to live and work in Germany and be prepared to ensure that right remains throughout the scope of the contract. Please note that it is your responsibility to ensure you meet the legal requirements to live and work in this country.

Equal employment:

We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, colour, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability or gender identity. We particularly encourage applications from candidates with protected characteristics. The Germany Network wants to maximise the potential of everyone who chooses to work for us, regardless of their background.

Learning & Development:

The British Consulate General has a strong ethos of Learning and Development, including our Learning and Development Week. In addition, there will be many opportunities to attend external seminars and events on relevant issues. This is in addition to the induction programme offered to all Consulate General staff.

The Consulate General offers learning and development opportunities throughout the year and invites you to join committee‑led forums where you may have an interest and can help shape the organisations objectives.

The successful applicant will be encouraged to be actively involved in the corporate life of the Consulate General, contributing to the wider objectives of the British Government’s Germany network and supporting the Consulate General's positive working environment.