Humanitarian Access and Safety (HAS) Advisor

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is an independent humanitarian organization established to assist people forced to flee their homes due to conflict and crises. With a workforce of approximately 15,000 staff, NRC operates in 40 countries worldwide, providing life-saving assistance and long-term support to millions of individuals each year. The organization is committed to upholding the rights of refugees and internally displaced persons, ensuring that they receive the necessary aid and protection. NRC's mission is to promote human dignity and support communities in rebuilding their lives after displacement, while also advocating for their rights on a global scale.

Job Overview:
The Humanitarian Access and Safety (HAS) Advisor plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security of NRC's operations at the country level. This position is responsible for managing safety and security risks, developing humanitarian access strategies, and implementing Duty of Care protocols in collaboration with the People and Organisation team. The HAS Advisor will work closely with the HAS Manager to prepare reports, execute the HAS Operational Plan, and support the implementation of Safe and Inclusive Programming Minimum Standards. The role requires a proactive approach to mitigating bureaucratic impediments and fostering a culture of principled humanitarian response. The HAS Advisor will also be involved in conducting Security Risk Assessments (SRAs), developing contingency plans, and facilitating training for NRC staff and partners to enhance their understanding of safety and security protocols. This position is essential for maintaining compliance with NRC's HAS Management System and ensuring that humanitarian access is prioritized in all operational areas.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the HAS Advisor include supporting the HAS Manager and/or director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Country Director in implementing the NRC Global HAS Management System, preparing necessary reports, and executing the HAS Operational Plan. The advisor will contribute to mitigating bureaucratic impediments and fostering a culture of safe and principled humanitarian response. Key responsibilities include line management of direct reporting staff, performance management, workforce planning, recruitment, and staff development. The HAS Advisor will assist in contextual analysis, develop country-level HAS documents, conduct Security Risk Assessments, and maintain oversight of compliance with NRC's HAS Management System. Additionally, the advisor will facilitate training sessions, communicate with external actors, build relationships with stakeholders, and support the development of access networks. The role also involves leading engagement with parties to the conflict and representing NRC in external forums related to security and humanitarian access.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of five years of relevant experience in a humanitarian or recovery context, with a strong background in liaising with local authorities and understanding the Humanitarian Principles. A solid grasp of NGO safety and risk management, humanitarian access, and civil-military coordination is essential. Previous experience in complex contexts and access negotiations is highly valued. Proficiency in MS Office applications, particularly Word and Excel, is required, and prior experience as a trainer is considered an added advantage. Candidates should demonstrate knowledge of the local context and experience in risk management with implementing partners.

Educational Background:
The position requires a relevant educational background, typically at least a bachelor's degree in a field related to humanitarian studies, international relations, or a similar discipline. Advanced degrees or specialized training in safety and security management, humanitarian access, or related areas may be beneficial and enhance a candidate's suitability for the role.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of five years of experience working in humanitarian settings, with a proven track record of managing safety and security risks. Experience in liaising with local government and authorities, as well as a solid understanding of humanitarian principles and their application in programmatic responses, is crucial. Familiarity with complex operational contexts and access negotiations is also necessary to effectively navigate the challenges faced in the field.

Languages:
Proficiency in English, both written and verbal, is mandatory for this position. Additional language skills relevant to the local context may be considered advantageous, as they can facilitate communication with local communities and authorities.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Port Sudan and is offered as a one-year national contract, with the possibility of extension based on funding, performance, and the ongoing need for the position. The role requires travel to NRC operating locations, estimated at 50% of the time. The salary and benefits are aligned with NRC's national pay scale, specifically grade

• NRC is committed to diversity and equal opportunities, ensuring that all employees are treated with respect and dignity. The organization emphasizes safeguarding principles and expects all employees to contribute to a safe environment, free from exploitation and harassment.