- The Intelligence Agency BND is scouting for fresh talents during Gamescom.
The German Foreign Intelligence Service, BND, is making its presence known at the tech event Gamescom with a substantial booth. As per Julia Linner, the BND's press spokesperson, the attendees of Gamescom share a considerable overlap with the type of individuals the agency hopes to recruit. Due to a significant personnel shortage, the BND is actively seeking new hires, and the deficit extends beyond its ranks.
Unlike typical exhibition-goers, the BND staff at the Gamescom booth lack visible name tags. The agency employs approximately 6,500 individuals, with over 4,000 based in Berlin, 1,000 in Pullach near Munich, and the remaining 1,500 working overseas or elsewhere in Germany.
BND team members on site at the Gamescom booth share their firsthand experiences, according to Linner.
IT specialists are in high demand
Intrigued attendees can participate in computer-based tasks designed to solve hypothetical dilemmas, such as pinpointing data indicative of a fictional terror attack. This exercise highlights the BND's primary interest: competent individuals who are conversant with the web and programming.
Linner suggests that the BND welcomes gamers, as there are discernible parallels between the gaming and agency worlds. "Our employees are tech-savvy, execute missions, take on roles, and assume various personas to collect information, much like video game characters do," she explains.
The BND and Germany's Military, Bundeswehr
One might wonder if the BND's public appearance contradicts its clandestine nature. Linner explains that in today's world, certain measures are necessary.
The BND booth at Gamescom is positioned in a quieter hall, with other entities showcasing themselves to the trade fair audience. Neighboring the BND is the Bundeswehr, while Rheinmetall Arms Manufacturer and a Bundestag representation occupy opposite ends of the hall, all aiming to draw attention to passersby.
The importance of silence
The BND goes the extra mile by attending Gamescom dressed as a cosplayer, with a woman portraying a desert warrior character adorned with a shield symbolizing democracy protection. She passes out business cards, introducing herself as "Operator AJ". Her true identity remains undisclosed.
Based on her card, AJ excels in disguise, boasting a perfect score. In the areas of leadership and small talk, her scores are less impressive, with 2 out of 3 points and 1 out of 3, respectively. The BND does not value overly chatty individuals.
The BND initially had a smaller presence at Gamescom in 2023, with a limited booth. However, the agency has participated in career and IT forums for an extended period.
Visitors to the BND booth at Gamescom can try their hand at solving hypothetical dilemmas through computer-based tasks, showcasing the agency's need for IT specialists. Linner encourages gamers to consider a career at the BND, as both share authenticities in technology and role-playing.
