Russia Analysis Subject Matter Expert

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high-impact, technical solutions to complex national security issues. With over 50 years of business expertise and consistent growth, we are known for continuous innovation for our government customers, in both the US and abroad. Our exceptionally talented team is highly collaborative in spirit and practice, producing Results that Matter. Come work with the best! We offer opportunity, unique challenges, and clear-sighted commitment to the mission. SPA: Objective. Responsive. Trusted.

The Joint, Office of the Secretary of Defense, Interagency Division (JOID) provides expert support services to a range of customers spanning across the Department of Defense, Federal Civilian, and international markets. JOID provides a diverse portfolio of analytical and programmatic capabilities to help our customers make informed decisions on their most challenging issues.

SPAs NATO Allied Command Transformation Group, within JOID, provides capability development, portfolio management, program management, quality management, cost estimation analysis, standardization, reporting, software solutions and information management, and capability management support. We also provide an improved capability requirements capture process, including the generation, documentation, and tracing of user requirements, with appropriate technical scrutiny, over the entire lifecycle of the requirements from capability definition through capability realization and capability usage.

We have a near-term need for a Russia SME/Analyst to provide onsite support out of HQ SACT in Norfolk, VA.

The candidate will work collaboratively with NATO Stakeholders to support the Wargaming Branch in ACT. Serve as SME on Russia, consultable on Eurasian affairs. Coordinate external subject matter expertise on Russia in support of designated projects, ensuring alignment with the Tier approach to leverage knowledge across NATO and relevant external entities, mainly when such expertise is not resident within SACT HQ. Assist in developing, coordinating, and advising on the implementations of WDA Lines of Delivery focused on the NWCC timeline and the strategic/operational challenges associated with Russia. Conduct in-depth research and analysis on emerging threats, adversarial strategies, and technological advancements to inform the Red Team's activities and support NATO's decision-making processes. Assist in drafting, reviewing, and finalizing Red Team reports, strategic analyses, and wargame evaluations to ensure high-quality deliverables that meet NATO standards. Apply SME-level analytic skills in order to recommend the actions required for a variety of ACT programs involving Russia. Provide advice and assessments to validate the Russia planning inputs are strategically sound. Provide reach-back support to NATO HQ and ACT Directorates for planning activities, contingencies, and exercise events relating to Russia. Act as a liaison between the Red Team and other NATO entities supporting coordination efforts, sharing intelligence, and ensuring alignment with broader NATO objectives and strategic initiatives. Provide specialized operational and analytical support to the Red Team leader, offering insights and expertise to enhance the effectiveness of Red Team activities and outputs. Develop and maintain a repository of Red Team knowledge, including best practices, lessons learned, and research findings to ensure that the Red Team benefits from cumulative knowledge and continues to improve its effectiveness. Support the development of Red Team personnel by identifying and sharing emerging trends, adversarial methodologies, and critical thinking strategies that enhance the team's capabilities.

Required:

Nationality of one of the NATO member countries
• Master's Degree in a relevant discipline
• PMP or its equivalent
• 4+ years of experience, including demonstrated experience working with international teams
• Demonstrated experience in project management to include complex stakeholder management tasks
• Proven ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing
• Demonstrated research experience in a relevant accredited academic institution or organization, or similar experience, related to the field or expertise
• Having lived or worked in the area of concentration if a regional caveat applies
• Possess experience in corporate, government, or academic environment in analysis concerning international relations security studies
• Published work that demonstrates knowledge of regional political/geopolitical, human, and economical issues
• Demonstrated fluency in English
• Demonstrated fluency in regional field of expertise (Russia)
• Understanding of NATO and its unique structure and work environment
• Possess experience working in a Strategic Headquarters dealing with complex issues related to Russia
• NATO Secret clearance or national equivalent
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and other collaborative software as applicable