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Progression rate as Third Secretary

  • 12-06-2017 12:19pm
    #1
    confusted
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 38 ✭


    Just wondering if anyone as an idea of how quickly you can climb up the ranks as a Third Sec. I'm 40 and have entered the current competition. I've worked with international ngos here in the policy/ advocacy area but the limited opportunities in Ireland in the international affairs area meant I threw my hat in the ring for Third Sec positions. I've gotten through the initial round of tests and I know there's no guarantee I'll get through the process but I'd like to have some idea of potential for moving up the ladder quite quickly. If successful I'd be taking a salary cut of almost 20000 but there would be greater job security. My other option is to continue to build on my experience with ngos, I have four years, and apply for a more senior role with the public sector down the road once I've gained management experience. All views welcome. Cheers.


Comments

  • #2
    Over_the_waves
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 25 ✭Over_the_waves


    Took the second round test last week, which was preceded by an orientation talk by a sitting Third Secretary.

    Basically, she intimated that it can take quite a while to progress from Third Secretary (I have previously heard perhaps 10-15 years) and that the lucky few entrants can expect to cover a lot of different functions/policy areas in this time, which is DFAT's policy/modus operandi.

    She also spoke at length about the factors one must consider before taking up the job, including possible dislocation from family and friends, challenges for those that are married or of LGBT identity, hardship postings etc.

    The underlying message seemed to be that it's not all Ferrero-Rocher and champagne; taking the post is a serious life decision which has major implications.


  • #3
    tea and coffee
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,854 ✭✭✭tea and coffee


    It depends. In the normal course of things it could take 10 years but if you really stand out and there's an internal competition for 1st Sec this *may* be recognised.
    On the other hand, there is a new Open Counsellor competition ( that's 2 grades higher than 3rd sec) as part of the Principal officer campaign just opened. Maybe apply for that also, nothing ventured and all that!


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