The profession of Defense and Security consultant
The Defense and Security Consultant supports and advises companies or public organizations in evaluating societal, political, and economic issues in a given regional or national territory.
Their analytical skills and multidisciplinary training provide the tools to understand and manage risks in a complex environment. This role is crucial in increasingly globalized markets, with international companies relying on these high-level profiles.
The Defense and Security Consultant provides advisory services within international security consulting firms and economic intelligence agencies. The Master's in International Affairs and Development at Université Paris Dauphine – PSL prepares future graduates for the role of Defense and Security Consultant by equipping them with skills in economics, geopolitics, and economic intelligence.
Role and responsibilities of a Defense and Security consultant
The Defense and Security Consultant possesses a wide range of skills, allowing them to address diverse issues. They take on specific missions, such as conducting audits of a project, company, or public development policy. In addition to providing strategic decision-making support, they also oversee the operational implementation of the project.
Daily tasks
Throughout their career, the Defense and Security Consultant will take on the following responsibilities:
- Conduct market and competitor studies
- Research and develop partnerships
- Strengthen a company’s public relations
- Prospect for commercial opportunities
- Assess geopolitical, societal, and economic risks
- Create and implement public policies related to a strategic sector
- Enhance the attractiveness of a region
- Monitor socio-economic developments in a specific region
Salaries and career progression
The median salary for a Defense and Security Consultant is approximately €42,000 gross annually upon graduation from Université Paris Dauphine-PSL. Depending on the organization they work for and the assigned missions, their salary may vary. After more than five years of experience and with increased responsibilities, a senior Defense and Security Consultant earns between €50,000 and €55,000 gross annually.
Career progression largely depends on the projects completed within a consulting firm. They may move into high-responsibility roles with international scope or take on senior positions within public administration or private companies in strategic sectors. The Defense and Security Consultant can also choose to become an independent consultant.
Required skills
- Analytical skills and strategic decision-making abilities
- Strong knowledge of geopolitics and economics
- Understanding of societal challenges and issues
- Proficiency in foreign languages
- Expertise in project management and change management
- Knowledge of the business world
- Adaptability to current and future challenges
- Excellent interpersonal skills with all stakeholders
What studies are required to become a Defense and Security consultant ?
To become a Defense and Security Consultant, students must develop knowledge and methods related to security, geopolitics, and economic challenges. Expertise in international affairs and development is essential. A Master's degree (Bac+5) with an international focus is an ideal academic path to take on strategic and operational responsibilities as a defense and security consultant.
Training to become a Defense and Security Consultant at Université Paris Dauphine-PSL
Université Paris Dauphine-PSL offers a Master's in International Affairs and Development to train students to become future defense and security consultants. This prestigious program leads to international careers and high-responsibility roles. It provides in-depth learning in economics, political relations, law, management, and organizational sociology. Available specialization tracks offer more specific expertise.