Job DescriptionWe are seeking a highly motivated Senior Protocol Officer who will serve as a principal advisor and the lead planner for all matters of official protocol, ceremony, and diplomatic etiquette. This position operates with a high degree of autonomy and is responsible for flawlessly planning and executing high-level visits, ceremonies, and special events involving senior leadership, foreign dignitaries, and other distinguished visitors. The Senior Protocol Officer provides expert guidance to ensure all interactions adhere to international norms, cultural sensitivities, and established precedents, thereby upholding the reputation and dignity of the organization on a global stage. This role requires strategic foresight, exceptional diplomatic tact, and the ability to manage complex logistics under pressure.
Work will be performed at the customer site in Springfield, VA.
The hiring of this position is contingent upon contract award. Anticipated award is fall of 2026.
Responsibilities will include the following:- Serve as the primary subject matter expert and principal advisor to senior leadership on all protocol-related matters, including order of precedence, flag etiquette, forms of address, and cultural customs.
- Lead the comprehensive planning, coordination, and execution of distinguished visitor engagements, including creating detailed itineraries, arranging secure transportation, lodging, and official entertainment.
- Direct all aspects of official ceremonies, conferences, and formal events, overseeing everything from venue selection and seating arrangements to scriptwriting and sequence of events.
- Function as the primary liaison with foreign embassies, government agencies, military counterparts, and other external organizations to coordinate visits and events.
- Manage the organization's official gift program, including the selection, procurement, and presentation of appropriate gifts for foreign and domestic counterparts.
- Develop and maintain the organization's official protocol policies and provide training to staff and leadership to ensure consistent application.
- Oversee crisis management from a protocol perspective, adapting plans quickly and discreetly in response to unexpected schedule changes or diplomatic incidents.
- Manage the protocol office budget, resources, and supervise junior protocol staff, interns, or volunteers.
QualificationsRequired Qualifications include:- Active TS/SCI is REQUIRED.
- Willing and able to obtain a Polygraph.
- Education: A minimum of a Master's degree in Business, Political Science, International Relations, Public Administration, or a related field. In lieu of a master's degree, the candidate must have 15+ years of direct protocol experience. Desired completion of formal training in protocol or event management (e.g., The Protocol School of Washington, George Washington University Event Management Program, or equivalent program).
- Experience: A minimum of 10 years of dedicated, full-time experience in a protocol- focused role within a diplomatic, military, government, or international corporate environment.
- Leadership: Demonstrated experience leading the planning and execution of large-scale, high-visibility events (e.g., summits, state dinners, formal military ceremonies).
- Advisory Role: Proven experience serving as a direct protocol advisor to Flag Officers, Ambassadors, Cabinet-level officials, or C-suite executives.
- Demonstrated experience planning, coordinating, and executing communication and event planning related functions for senior leadership, foreign dignitaries, diplomats, foreign military personnel, legislative, and government officials.
- Demonstrated experience in providing on-site logistical support for events including site preparation.
Desired Qualifications include:- Language Skills: Proficiency in one or more foreign languages.
- Formal Training: Completion of a recognized protocol officer training course (e.g., from the Protocol School of Washington, George Washington University Event Management Program, or a similar institution).
