As the Regional Humanitarian Safety & Security Director (RSSD) for Asia, you will be a key figure in developing and implementing security strategies to safeguard IRC’s operations in the region. Your role will be critical in identifying, analyzing, and mitigating risks, as well as supporting humanitarian access and program continuity. Reporting to the Regional Vice President (RVP) and the Senior Director of Safety & Security, you will serve as a trusted advisor on safety and security matters, provide strategic risk management insights, and mentor the country teams to develop and implement security procedures tailored to their specific environments.
The RSSD is responsible for ensuring that IRC operations are carried out with minimum risk to staff, facilities, and programs in countries experiencing conflict or instability. You will travel regularly to support teams on the ground and lead initiatives that promote IRC’s overall safety and security standards across Asia.
Key Responsibilities
Security Risk Management
- Lead the development, implementation, and oversight of effective security risk management strategies across IRC’s country programs.
- Advise field leaders on identifying and mitigating security risks within the regional context, ensuring alignment with global standards.
- Review safety and security strategies for each country and ensure they comply with IRC’s security minimum standards (SMS).
- Ensure that Gender Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (GEDI) principles are integrated into safety and security practices.
- Establish and maintain a robust network of security focal points across IRC’s country programs and external partners.
Humanitarian Access Management
- Support the facilitation of principled and secure humanitarian access, enabling successful program delivery across countries.
- Lead initiatives to develop and improve operational responses to crises, including engagement with non-state actors and adherence to IRC policies.
- Mentor and guide the development of operational contingency plans for evolving security situations.
Performance Management and Development
- Provide leadership to a security team in Asia, ensuring staff members meet clear performance objectives, receive feedback, and participate in regular performance reviews.
- Focus on staff care and well-being, implementing appropriate interventions for national and international staff.
Learning & Development
- Lead the design and implementation of security-related capacity-building initiatives in country programs across the region.
- Develop and deliver training on security awareness, critical incident management, and other relevant topics.
Incident Management
- Oversee timely incident notifications, conduct qualitative analysis, and share lessons learned across teams.
- Participate in regional incident management, support the RVP in responding to Tier 2 and Tier 3 incidents, and facilitate corrective actions after security incidents.
Qualifications & Requirements
- Education:
- Minimum of 10 years of experience in international humanitarian assistance programs with a focus on security risk management.
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Security Management, International Relations, or a relevant field (or equivalent experience).
- Experience:
- Proven track record of managing security operations in humanitarian settings, preferably in the Asia region.
- In-depth knowledge of humanitarian principles, NGO culture, and operational risks in complex, high-threat environments.
- Experience in integrating gender-specific risks into security management and fostering inclusive practices.
- Familiarity with international humanitarian law, NGO security standards, and principles.
- Skills:
- Strong leadership capabilities with the ability to collaborate across teams and drive results.
- Ability to work effectively in multi-disciplinary, multi-national teams and engage external stakeholders.
- Self-driven, proactive approach with exceptional problem-solving and decision-making skills.
- Proficiency in English (required).
- Ability and willingness to travel frequently across the region (approx. 40% of the time).
What We Offer
- Competitive Salary & Benefits: IRC offers a market-competitive salary, along with additional benefits including performance bonuses.
- Work-Life Balance: The position comes with a healthy work-life balance, as well as flexible schedules to cater to diverse needs.
- Capacity-Building Opportunities: Regular training and professional development initiatives to sharpen your leadership, operational, and humanitarian safety expertise.
- Global Impact: The opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable communities affected by crises, while working for one of the world’s largest and most reputable INGOs.
Application Instructions
Interested candidates should submit a detailed CV and cover letter to the email address provided. Please ensure that your CV includes relevant work experience, qualifications, certifications, and specific examples demonstrating your ability to manage humanitarian safety and security operations.
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