Embassy of Ireland in London Opens Applications for Graduate Policy Officer Positions for 2026 Intake
The Embassy of Ireland in London has announced a new recruitment campaign for Graduate Policy Officer positions, offering recent graduates an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in diplomacy, public policy, communications, economics, and international relations.
The Embassy is seeking to establish a panel of highly motivated, adaptable, and professional candidates who will begin their appointments in October 2026. The positions provide a unique entry point into diplomatic and policy work within one of Ireland’s most important overseas missions.
Successful applicants will contribute to a range of policy, research, and administrative functions while supporting the Embassy’s broader mission of promoting and protecting Ireland’s interests abroad.
About the Embassy of Ireland in London
The Embassy of Ireland in London forms part of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, which works to advance Ireland’s values, interests, and economic wellbeing internationally.
Through its global diplomatic network, the Department supports Irish citizens, strengthens international partnerships, promotes economic cooperation, and advances foreign policy objectives.
The London Embassy plays a particularly significant role in managing relations between Ireland and the United Kingdom, covering political, economic, cultural, and Northern Ireland-related issues.
Role Overview
Graduate Policy Officers will work across several sections of the Embassy, supporting policy analysis, communications, and operational activities.
Areas of assignment may include:
- Political affairs
- Press and communications
- Economic policy
- Cultural diplomacy
- International relations
The role offers exposure to key developments affecting Ireland-UK relations and broader international policy discussions.
Key Responsibilities
Selected candidates will undertake a variety of duties supporting Embassy operations and policy objectives.
Responsibilities include:
Policy Research and Analysis
- Monitoring developments in UK politics and public policy
- Researching political, economic, foreign policy, European Union, and Northern Ireland issues
- Tracking activities within the UK Parliament and Parliamentary Committees
- Preparing policy reports and briefing materials
Communications and Events Support
- Assisting with Embassy events and official engagements
- Supporting media monitoring and communications activities
- Contributing to public diplomacy initiatives
Administrative Support
- Providing administrative assistance across Embassy departments
- Supporting customer service delivery and operational functions
- Assisting with project coordination and office activities
The position will involve regular attendance at the Embassy’s London offices and may include a hybrid working arrangement incorporating remote work where appropriate.
Ideal Candidate Profile
The Embassy notes that the positions are particularly suitable for graduates interested in:
- International relations
- Public policy
- Politics
- Communications
- Economics
- Diplomacy and government affairs
Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical abilities, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to delivering high-quality work in a fast-paced environment.
Essential Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet all mandatory requirements before applying.
Candidates must:
- Hold a minimum Honours Undergraduate Degree at the time of application
- Demonstrate excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Be fluent in spoken and written English
- Possess strong analytical and research capabilities
- Have proficiency in Microsoft Office applications
- Demonstrate excellent organisational and administrative skills
- Provide evidence of strong customer service experience
- Show the ability to work collaboratively within a team environment
- Demonstrate attention to detail and accuracy under pressure
The Embassy has stated that candidates who have not completed their undergraduate degree by the application deadline will not be considered.
Recruitment Process
The selection process may include multiple stages depending on the volume and quality of applications received.
Potential assessment stages include:
- Application screening and shortlisting
- Skills assessments
- First-round interviews
- Second-round interviews where necessary
- Panel creation for future vacancies
Shortlisting is expected to conclude by mid-July 2026, with interviews anticipated to take place by the end of August 2026.
Interviews may be conducted either in person or via video conference.
Contract Terms and Salary
Successful candidates will be offered either a 9-month or 12-month fixed-term contract based at the Embassy of Ireland in London.
Additional employment details include:
- Possibility of an additional 11-month extension based on performance and organisational needs
- Maximum total contract duration of 23 months
- Full-time employment from Monday to Friday
- Potential staggered working hours depending on operational requirements
The starting salary is:
- £29,180.03 gross per annum
Additional benefits include:
- Weekly salary payments
- 20 days annual leave per year, excluding public holidays
- Potential hybrid working arrangements
Work Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must already possess the legal right to live and work in the United Kingdom before submitting an application.
The Embassy will not sponsor work authorisation for successful candidates.
In addition, all appointments will be subject to security clearance and police vetting procedures in accordance with employment policies and legal requirements.
Application Process and Deadline
Interested candidates must complete the required application form and submit it to:
Applications must be received no later than:
6 July 2026 at 14:00 (London Time)
Applications submitted after the deadline will not be accepted.
Postal applications may also be submitted to:
GPO Recruitment
Embassy of Ireland
17 Grosvenor Place
London SW1X 7HR
United Kingdom
The Embassy advises that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted regarding the next stage of the recruitment process.
For graduates seeking practical experience in diplomacy, policy analysis, international affairs, and government relations, the Graduate Policy Officer programme offers a valuable opportunity to develop professional skills within Ireland’s diplomatic service while contributing to key policy priorities affecting Ireland and the United Kingdom.
VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY
For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel
Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.
