Safety, Security and Access Director

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization founded on the belief that a better world is possible. Established in August 2007, Mercy Corps has been operational in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) for over 16 years. The organization employs more than 300 national and expatriate staff and operates in various regions including Goma, Beni, Bunia, and several locations in the Kasai Province. Mercy Corps partners with over 40 organizations to deliver integrated programs that reach approximately 2.12 million people in North Kivu, South Kivu, and Kasai, focusing on improving water, sanitation, hygiene (WASH) services, economic development, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, and social cohesion to foster peace and good governance.

Job Overview:
The Safety, Security and Access Director is a pivotal role within Mercy Corps, reporting directly to the Country Director. This position requires strategic leadership and operational management to ensure the safety of staff and the security of organizational operations in the DRC. The director will develop and implement a comprehensive security strategy that aligns with Mercy Corps' global policies and donor requirements while facilitating safe program delivery to vulnerable communities. The role demands high-level engagement with government and humanitarian stakeholders, as well as coordination of safety systems at the field level. The director must navigate high-risk environments and maintain a balance between program objectives and the organization's duty of care obligations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Safety, Security and Access Director will lead the development and execution of a country-wide Safety, Security, and Access Strategy, ensuring safe operations across all areas, including those controlled by non-state armed groups. Responsibilities include advising the Country Director on access challenges, coordinating with regional and global security teams, conducting security risk assessments, and implementing safety protocols. The director will also oversee crisis management preparedness, establish security incident management systems, and design security training modules for staff. Additionally, the role involves mentoring team members on security awareness and integrating safeguarding practices into operations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 5 years of experience in safety, security, and humanitarian access management in complex emergency contexts, with at least 3 years in a senior leadership role. An advanced degree in Security Studies, International Relations, Political Science, or a related field is preferred. Experience in high-risk environments, particularly in the DRC or Great Lakes region, is highly desirable. The ideal candidate will have proven negotiation skills, a strong understanding of humanitarian principles, and excellent communication skills in both English and French. Familiarity with remote management techniques and technology-based security solutions is also essential.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree in Security Studies, International Relations, Political Science, or a related field is preferred for this position. This educational background will provide the necessary theoretical framework and analytical skills required to navigate the complexities of security and humanitarian access in volatile environments.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in safety, security, and humanitarian access management, with at least 3 years in a senior leadership role. Candidates should have a demonstrated ability to develop and implement security strategies in large, multi-site programs, particularly in high-risk environments characterized by armed conflict or political instability.

Languages:
Fluency in English and French is mandatory for this position. Strong communication skills in both languages are essential for effective interaction with diverse stakeholders, including government authorities, community leaders, and international partners. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not required.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Goma, DRC, and is classified as a non-family (unaccompanied) posting. Mercy Corps provides group housing, security, and transportation for expatriate team members. The role involves extensive travel within eastern and western DRC to support operational bases and program interventions. The organization promotes ongoing learning, allowing team members to dedicate 5% of their time to personal and professional development activities. Mercy Corps is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment.