Staff Officer (China Strategic Policy)

About the role

The Staff Officer (China Strategic Policy) supports the Strategic Policy Branch at SHAPE by providing analysis, coordination and reporting on China‑related defence matters. The role bridges NATO policy development and operational planning, ensuring that Chinese military developments are integrated into NATO strategic assessments.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct preliminary research and compile data on Chinese military strategy and PLA modernization.
• Track NATO’s China‑related policies and maintain a living reference repository for policy harmonisation.
• Prepare reports, briefings and other material on China for senior leadership.
• Pre‑screen documents and stakeholder inputs for relevance, consistency and implications.
• Manage tasking calendars, deliverable timelines and coordinate internal meetings on China‑related topics.
• Represent the branch at working‑level engagements and ensure reliable follow‑up.
• Track and update China‑related Lessons Identified and Lessons Learned across NATO stakeholders.
• Maintain task trackers and calendars to align deliverables with deadlines and dependencies.
• Identify overlaps or divergences in policy perspectives and flag issues for escalation.

Required profile

• Minimum two years of professional experience in a national or international defence organisation, focused on China‑related strategic or operational issues.
• Academic or policy experience related to China’s military strategy with ability to link analysis to operational or doctrinal implications.
• Understanding of NATO political‑military processes, strategic planning cycles and coordination mechanisms.
• Experience integrating intelligence, foresight and trend analysis into actionable military assessments.
• Strong communication and liaison skills with relevant stakeholders.
• University degree with relevant experience, or higher secondary education with vocational training and four years of related experience.

Required skills