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Protocol Officer Senior

TULK is a boutique strategic technology and management consulting firm supporting U.S. Federal Government, Defense, Intelligence Community, and National Security customers. Our cleared teams help mission organizations operate, communicate, analyze, plan, and execute in dynamic environments.

TULK offers a tailored benefits package that may include medical, dental, and vision insurance, short- and long-term disability, flexible work schedules where permitted by the customer, performance and referral bonuses, technology support, tuition reimbursement, 401(k), and professional development support.

About the Work

The Protocol Officer - Senior, is a principal advisor and the lead planner for all matters of official protocol, ceremony, and diplomatic etiquette for NGA. 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 precedent, 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.

Your Duties

• 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.

Required Skills and Experience

• U.S. citizenship is required.
• An active TS/SCI security clearance is required. Some positions may require additional accesses, SCI eligibility, or successful completion of a Counterintelligence-scope polygraph process as directed by the customer.
• 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 Skills and Experience

• 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).

What We Value

• Sound judgment, professionalism, and discretion in support of national security missions.
• Strong communication, organization, and follow-through.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with government, contractor, and mission partners.
• A practical, mission-focused approach to solving problems and improving outcomes.