Security Manager, Malaria and Neglected Tropical Diseases (MNTD), REACH at PATH

The Security Manager for the REACH Malaria project will be responsible for ensuring the safety and security of all project staff, assets, and activities. Based in Abuja and overseeing operations across 7 states, this role is essential for enabling the successful implementation of our public health initiatives in complex environments. The ideal candidate will be a seasoned security professional with extensive experience in risk management, security planning, and crisis response within Nigeria, preferably in the international development or humanitarian sector. This position requires a proactive leader who can develop and implement robust security protocols for a 70-person team.

Key Responsibilities

• Security Risk Analysis: Continuously monitor and analyze the security situation in all areas of operation. Provide timely and actionable security advice and recommendations to the project leadership.
• Security Planning and Procedures: Develop, maintain, and implement a comprehensive Security Plan, including standard operating procedures (SOPs) for travel, office security, and incident management.
• Incident and Crisis Management: Serve as the primary focal point for any security incidents. Lead the project’s response to crises, ensuring swift and effective action to protect staff and assets.
• Staff Training and Briefing: Conduct regular security briefings and training for all staff, including pre-deployment orientations, travel safety, and emergency preparedness drills. Ensure all personnel are aware of and adhere to security protocols.
• Liaison and Networking: Establish and maintain a strong network of contacts with local security authorities (e.g., police, military), community leaders, and other NGO security focal points to ensure access to reliable security information.
• Travel Management: Oversee a robust travel management system, including journey management planning, travel risk assessments, and real-time tracking of staff movements in the field.
• Physical Security: Manage the security of all project offices and guesthouses, including the supervision of contracted guard forces and the maintenance of physical security measures (e.g., alarms, access control).
• Reporting: Prepare and disseminate regular security reports, including incident reports, threat assessments, and weekly security updates to project management and relevant stakeholders.

Qualifications

• A Bachelor’s degree in Security Management, International Relations, Political Science, or a related field. A military or police background can be considered in lieu of a degree with extensive relevant experience.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in a security management role, with at least 3 years spent working for an international NGO, UN agency, or similar organization in Nigeria.
• Proven experience operating in Northern Nigeria and a deep understanding of the specific security challenges and context in the region.
• Demonstrated experience in developing and implementing security plans, conducting risk assessments, and managing critical incidents.
• An established network of contacts with local and national security actors in Nigeria is highly desirable.

Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to make sound decisions in high-pressure situations.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to brief and train staff from diverse backgrounds.
• High level of discretion, integrity, and professionalism.
• Fluency in English is required. Proficiency in Hausa or other local languages relevant to the project areas is a significant advantage.
• Certified training in security management (e.g., CPO, PSP, CSMP) is a plus.

Working Conditions

• This is a full-time position based in our Abuja office.
• The role requires frequent and extensive travel to the 7 project implementation states, sometimes at short notice