Safety and Security Officer at Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD)

Job Profile

• CAFODs Safety and Security Officer will develop and ensure the systematic application of safety and security management policies and procedures in operational areas of Nigeria.
• A key element of this post will include the ongoing assessment of threats and provision of advice to manage risk; the maintenance and updating of security guidelines; ensuring that field security working practices are robust, and that staff and partners are aware of, trained in, and adhere to security management policy, guidelines, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Integral to the posting is the ability to work successfully with field teams/ locations to cultivate capacity and motivation thereby ensuring field-based responsibility for security analysis and management.
• The post reports to the Country Representative, works in close collaboration with the ECHO Project Coordinator, field-based Program Managers, partner security focal persons, and receives technical support from the Global Security Adviser based in London.

This post will require some international travel.

Key Responsibilities

Security Risk Assessment 

• Determine and assess the specific threats to CAFOD and partner staff, premises (office, accommodation), and programmes. 
• Identify and make recommendations for systems, procedures, and resources to mitigate risk to manageable levels.
•  Assess the capacity of professional security guards at residences and offices related to their security training needs.

Programming

• Advise the Country Representative, Project Coordinator and other key personnel on how to mainstream security in programme management.
• Review the impact of security factors on CAFOD program designs and delivery,
• Ensure that all program activities/locations are assessed and monitored relative to their impact on staff safety and security.
• In consultation with the Global Security Adviser, continuously monitor the security /safety environment, nationally, and locally for all program areas, and make recommendations to the Country Representative, to adjust security policies and procedures as needed.
• Initiate the formation of a Security Management Team in Nigeria and spearhead the revision of Safety and Security Guidelines/ plans for all operational areas.
• Ensure that contingency plans for Evacuation, Relocation, Hibernation, and Medical Evacuation are reviewed quarterly or whenever the security context changes.
• Ensure that communication systems are adequate and maintained and provide training to staff on the use of such equipment and communications protocols in conjunction with the programme coordinator.
• In conjunction with relevant logistics staff, programme managers and transport staff ensure that regulations for travel in the field are implemented in a systematic and timely fashion.
• Conduct security assessments in new areas of Nigeria before entry by program staff.

 Security Plan and Minimum Operating Security Standards

• Act as an integral member of the CAFOD Security Management Team in Nigeria.
• Ensure that staff members are provided with and are proficient in the use of safety equipment, including communications equipment, vehicle emergency equipment and personal security safeguards required for work in the field.
• Ensure CAFOD compliance with agency staff safety and security policies and protocols,
• Remain continuously informed of the security situation in Nigeria. Develop a security action plan for reinforcement of security measures at the office and the residences of CAFOD staff. Coordinate closely with security colleagues – UN/INGO, CCO/INSO, etc.
• Document the dates and types of security training staff members have received and make recommendations on training needs. Facilitate training, as needed.
• Ensure appropriate professional liaison with local authorities responsible for security, law and order, counterparts in diplomatic missions and municipal/civic/religious and traditional leaders.

Logistics

• Due to the interrelatedness of Logistics and Security in this operating environment, the post holder may be required to advise and assist in logistics matters.
• Your role is responsible for ensuring that the programming work you are accountable for is safe, accessible, dignified and inclusive, providing ongoing support and follow-up to our partners in this area.

Safeguarding

• All CAFOD staff share responsibility to promote and maintain a strong safeguarding culture, including identifying the key actions they should take given their role and responsibilities.

Key Competencies

• The ability to work with others, especially local partners and other staff, build the capacity of colleagues and partners.
• Fluent in written and spoken English.
• Bachelor’s degree in Arts, Social Sciences, or any related field. However, a diploma backed by strong relevant technical experience will also be considered.
• Substantial professional experience in safety & security management with NGOs, INGOS. Previous work experience in an emergency context.
• Demonstrated ability to transfer knowledge through formal and informal training.
• Demonstrated ability to work with people from diverse social and cultural backgrounds.
• Carry out partner capacity assessments and identify support needs; collaborate with colleagues across CAFOD, and good at networking with other agencies on security and safety.
• Achieving results; Delivers work within the context of an agreed programme framework.

Job-Specific Competencies

• Ability to work with and build the capacity of programme staff and partner organisations.
• Ability to develop and/or adapt safety and security tools for practical use.
• Knowledge of safety and security concepts, frameworks and tools; able to manage crisis situations.
• Excellent writing skills, including experience of donor reporting.