Regional Field Security Advisor

Mid Senior Security

Overview

Provide effective security advisory and operational support.

You have:

• Advanced university degree in social or political science, law, public administration, business management or security management is required.
• A minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in international security management.
• Direct experience with the United Nations Security Management System is a strong advantage.
• Proficiency in computer skills, including MS Office, is required.
• Fluency in English is required.
• Working knowledge of Arabic is an advantage.
• A first-level university degree in combination with an additional 7 years' relevant experience at the international level OR Technical/Professional Diploma in combination with an additional 6 years of relevant, international and national experience OR Secondary Diploma with 11 years’ relevant, international and national experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree.
• Substantial experience (a minimum of 15 years) in civilian police/military may be accepted in lieu of formal education.

Contract

This is a LICA Specialist-10 contract. This kind of contract is known as Local Individual Contractor Agreements. It is normally only for nationals. It's an external contract. It usually requires 5 years of experience, depending on education. More about LICA Specialist-10 contracts.

Background Information - Job-specific

Regional Offices are responsible for the setting the strategic direction and positioning of UNOPS programming in the region and for providing technical and strategic leadership, advisory services and operational support to Multi Country Offices (MCOs), Country Offices (COs) and Project Offices (POs) to achieve results.

The incumbent functions within the framework of the UN Security Management System, under the supervision of the Regional Director and general guidance of the UNOPS Chief of Security, coordinating directly with the local UN Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS) office, if available. The position is responsible for providing effective and efficient security services to enable the safe conduct of local programmes and operations in the relevant geographical business unit/s. The incumbent promotes a compliance and client-oriented approach consistent with UNOPS rules and regulations and UN Security Management System regulations. He/she works closely with and advises Programme Management and personnel to plan for and resolve security related issues.

Functional Responsibilities

Summary of Key Functions: 1. Advisory and Technical 2. Operations 3. Staff Development 4. Knowledge Building and Knowledge Sharing

1. Advisory and Technical - Providing timely, accurate and relevant security advice in accordance with UNOPS and UNSMS/UN SMT policies, guidelines, procedures and decisions. This may include the development of ad hoc guidelines and SoPs for country offices. - Assessing prevailing security conditions in the region, identifying security trends and advising management and personnel on potential security concerns. - Advising and supporting UNOPS personnel traveling on mission, according to prevailing risks. - Advising UNOPS personnel on residential security matters. - Leading response to security related incidents. - Maintaining continuous liaison with UNDSS, other International Organizations, Host Government and relevant local actors to gather and assess information on security and safety matters which may impact on UN/UNOPS personnel and programmes in the region of responsibility, and enable effective security management, networking, mutual support, and information sharing. - Liaise with and update regularly the UNOPS Chief of Security on the security situation, submitting periodic reports on security issues and performance. - Ensuring effective mechanisms for responding to day-to-day security requirements. - Providing substantive advice to managers regarding the mainstreaming of security risk management and related costs into programmes and projects, to enable implementation within a threshold of acceptable risk. - Advising and supporting relevant stakeholders in the procurement, selection, installation and administration of security and safety equipment, services and personnel. The incumbent may be called to serve on procurement committees / selection panels.

2. Operations

• Prepare the security strategy and plan, including all aspects related to elaboration, development, adaptation, implementation and updating.
• Advice to Regional Director on security needs in the region, such as human resources and/or budgetary, elaborating the necessary proposals.
• Perform security risk assessments, both routine and ad-hoc, based on established UNSMS standards to ensure optimal security measures are in place for UNOPS personnel, assets and operations.
• Lead in ensuring effective response to offices in crisis situations.
• Maintain security of the UNOPS’ offices by conducting physical security inspections of facilities, background checks and entry control.
• Undertake security assessment and support missions to the field as required, which may take place at short notice and to high risk destinations.
• Coordinate, maintain and apply protection details for senior officials as necessary.
• Serve on call 24/7 to attend to urgent security and safety matters and lead response to security related incidents.
• Oversee the maintenance of lists of UNOPS personnel and their dependents, offices, residences, project sites and focal points, and ensure the maintenance of an effective system to account for personnel rapidly during emergencies as well as the capacity to issue notifications and instructions.
• When requested, review all new project proposals from a security perspective and provide comments and proposals to ensure security concerns are addressed. Conduct field assessments if deemed necessary.
• Develop, adapt, and implement security policies, protocols and procedures for local conditions, consistent with UN security frameworks.
• Propose and control budgets for security operations and monitor expenses.
• Analyze data to form proposals for improvements (e.g. implementation of new technology).

• Prepare an annual region-wide security work plan including budget for all aspects of office security including full compliance with UN security management policies, procedures and guidelines; including:

  • Fire Safety
  • Security plan
  • Implementation of mandatory security mitigation measures
  • RSM
• Revise and update the office Regional Business Continuity Plan from a Security and Safety perspective.
• Assist in maintaining up-to-date database of personnel and their dependents, information and related to UNOPS offices, residences, project sites, focal points, and the warden system for the implementation of the office/operation’s security plan.
• Review security arrangements for all operations, maintaining relevant instructions, such as security and evacuation plans for ready access by all parties.
• Ensure the smooth and efficient evacuation of UNOPS staff members, designated personnel, and dependants, managing the implementation of UNDSS and UNOPS evacuation and extrication policies, and assuming leadership in the case of declaration of evacuation.
• Coordinate personnel when responding to emergencies and alarms.
• Develop mechanism for reporting all security related incidents that may have an impact on UNOPS projects or programmes.
• Plan and coordinate security operations for specific events and visits.
• Brief all new project managers on security concerns specific to their projects;
• Perform security assessments, both routine and exceptional, as required, to ensure optimal safety standards are in place for staff traveling across the area of operation.
• Manage and perform daily monitoring, taking necessary action when required, and generate reports as needed.
• Maintain accurate multi-sourced country records on current and projected security issues (assessments, security plans, etc.) and brief necessary staff across the region when required.
• Manage the inspection of the main office, facilities, residential compounds, as well as field offices and compounds, providing guidance and procedures for achieving full compliance with the mandatory mitigation measures and RSM compliance.
• Monitor and facilitate staff adherence to, and compliance with, the various UNDSS advisories, in particular: directions related to warden systems; mandatory mitigation measures); residential security management (RSM), etc.
• Ensure that appropriate and effective coordination is maintained with other UN security officers and other regional security services to facilitate seamless implementation of the security arrangements across the respective business unit/office.
• Liaise with the local government security organizations to gather and assess information on security and safety matters that might affect UNOPS personnel and programmes located in various areas in the country and provide analysis of security related information obtained.
• Determine, manage and account for the use of security equipment including security communications equipment.

3. Staff Development

• Develop and deliver staff development and training programs for UNOPS personnel and security focal points, including on Security Risk Assessments within the area of operation.
• Ensure that all UNOPS personnel receive briefings upon initial arrival, local security training as necessitated by changes in the security environment, and are kept informed of matters affecting their security.
• Maintain up-to-date instructions and training for personnel on implementation of the security plan, including required precautions, comprehensive listing of emergency supplies, and guidance on action taken during emergencies, including natural disasters and political crises.
• Provide heightened security awareness training to staff, beyond the required security and emergency procedures, if necessary.

4. Knowledge Building and Knowledge Sharing

• Continuous monitoring of developments in the region of responsibility which may have an impact on the security of UNOPS personnel, other assets and operations.
• Responsible for effective security management monitoring, tracking and reporting.
• Identifies the root causes of security issues and ensures coordinated and timely dissemination of security assessment reports and mitigation measures to the relevant stakeholders (Regional Office and HQ, country office, line managers).
• Report security incidents as soon as possible according to UNOPS and UNSMS procedures.
• Investigate, in cooperation with UNDSS, security-related incidents involving UNOPS personnel.
• Investigate accidents involving UNOPS vehicles and report findings.
• Collaborate with the Health Safety Social and Environment (HSSE) focal point at local, regional and corporate level to manage risks related to the safety of personnel, as needed.

• Contribute to periodic reporting related to the security function:

  • Organize, facilitate and/or deliver training and learning initiatives for Business Unit personnel on Security related topics.
  • Lead and conduct initiatives on capacity development and knowledge building for Security personnel in the region, including network development, plans, learning plans and activities, procurement practice information and best practice benchmarking.
  • Oversee team’s contributions to Security knowledge networks and communities of practice including collaborative synthesis of lessons learnt and dissemination of best practices in Security.
  • Guide team’s collection of feedback, ideas, and internal knowledge about processes and best practices and utilize productively.

Competencies

Develops and implements sustainable business strategies, thinks long term and externally in order to positively shape the organization. Anticipates and perceives the impact and implications of future decisions and activities on other parts of the organization. Treats all individuals with respect; responds sensitively to differences and encourages others to do the same. Upholds organizational and ethical norms. Maintains high standards of trustworthiness. Role model for diversity and inclusion.

Acts as a positive role model contributing to the team spirit. Collaborates and supports the development of others. For people managers only: Acts as positive leadership role model, motivates, directs and inspires others to succeed, utilizing appropriate leadership styles. Demonstrates understanding of the impact of own role on all partners and always puts the end beneficiary first. Builds and maintains strong external relationships and is a competent partner for others (if relevant to the role). Efficiently establishes an appropriate course of action for self and/or others to accomplish a goal. Actions lead to total task accomplishment through concern for quality in all areas. Sees opportunities and takes the initiative to act on them. Understands that responsible use of resources maximizes our impact on our beneficiaries. Open to change and flexible in a fast paced environment. Effectively adapts own approach to suit changing circumstances or requirements. Reflects on experiences and modifies own behavior. Performance is consistent, even under pressure. Always pursues continuous improvements. Evaluates data and courses of action to reach logical, pragmatic decisions. Takes an unbiased, rational approach with calculated risks. Applies innovation and creativity to problem-solving. Expresses ideas or facts in a clear, concise and open manner. Communication indicates a consideration for the feelings and needs of others. Actively listens and proactively shares knowledge. Handles conflict effectively, by overcoming differences of opinion and finding common ground.

Education/Experience/Language requirements

Education:

• Advanced university degree preferably in social or political science, law, public administration, business management or security management is required.
• A first-level university degree in combination with an additional 7 years' relevant experience at the international level OR
• Technical/Professional Diploma in combination with an additional 6 years of relevant, international and national experience OR
• Secondary Diploma in combination with an 11 years’ of relevant, international and national experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree.
• Substantial experience (a minimum of 15 years) in civilian police/military may be accepted in lieu of formal education.

Experience:

• A minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in international security management, with at least 3 years in a senior command or leadership role is required.
• Demonstrated experience and exposure in cross-border and/or international security-related issues is required.
• Direct experience with the United Nations Security Management System is a strong advantage.
• Ability to produce Standing Operating Procedures/Security Risk Assessments/Security Plans in accordance with UNDSS methodology is an asset.
• Proficiency in computer skills, including MS office, is required.

Language Requirements:

• Fluency in English is required.
• Working knowledge of Arabic is an advantage.
• Knowledge of another official UNOPS official language is an asset.

Contract type, level and duration

Contract type: Local Individual Contractor Agreement (LICA) Contract level: LICA Specialist-10 Contract duration: Open-ended, subject to organizational requirements, availability of funds and satisfactory performance.

For more details about the ICA contractual modality, please follow this link: https://www.unops.org/english/Opportunities/job-opportunities/what-we-offer/Pages/Individual-Contractor-Agreements.aspx

Additional Information

• Please note that UNOPS does not accept unsolicited resumes.
• Applications received after the closing date will not be considered.
• Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and advance to the next stage of the selection process, which involves various assessments.
• UNOPS embraces diversity and is committed to equal employment opportunity. Our workforce consists of many diverse nationalities, cultures, languages, races, gender identities, sexual orientations, and abilities. UNOPS seeks to sustain and strengthen this diversity to ensure equal opportunities as well as an inclusive working environment for its entire workforce.
• Qualified women and candidates from groups which are underrepresented in the UNOPS workforce are encouraged to apply. These include in particular candidates from racialized and/or indigenous groups, members of minority gender identities and sexual orientations, and people with disabilities.
• We would like to ensure all candidates perform at their best during the assessment process. If you are shortlisted and require additional assistance to complete any assessment, including reasonable accommodation, please inform our human resources team when you receive an invitation.
• This position is stationed in Amman, Jordan which is a family duty station.

Terms and Conditions

• For staff positions only, UNOPS reserves the right to appoint a candidate at a lower level than the advertised level of the post.
• For retainer contracts, you must complete a few Mandatory Courses (they take around 4 hours to complete) in your own time, before providing services to UNOPS. For more information on a retainer contract here.
• All UNOPS personnel are responsible for performing their duties in accordance with the UN Charter and UNOPS Policies and Instructions, as well as other relevant accountability frameworks. In addition, all personnel must demonstrate an understanding of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in a manner consistent with UN core values and the UN Common Agenda.
• It is the policy of UNOPS to conduct background checks on all potential personnel. Recruitment in UNOPS is contingent on the results of such checks.

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Potential interview questions

Added 2 years ago - Updated 1 year ago - Source: jobs.unops.org