Security Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change. Established in 1961, WFP operates in numerous countries worldwide, employing thousands of individuals committed to humanitarian efforts. WFP's mission is to ensure that no one goes hungry, and it actively engages in various initiatives to improve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and nutrition, particularly in vulnerable communities. WFP has a strong presence in the Philippines, having re-established its operations in 2006 to support peace processes and provide emergency food assistance. The organization is guided by its Country Strategic Plan (CSP) 2024-2028, focusing on resilience-building and effective food systems in the Philippines.

Job Overview:
The Security Associate position is crucial for the implementation and assessment of security measures within the World Food Programme's operations in Cotabato, Philippines. This role involves maintaining security equipment, providing timely updates, and making recommendations to support informed decision-making. The Security Associate ensures the protection of WFP staff, facilities, and program operations, contributing to the smooth implementation of WFP activities within the UN Security Area in Central Mindanao. The position requires a high level of responsibility and initiative, as the Security Associate will be expected to respond independently to queries and exercise sound judgment in addressing unforeseen challenges. The role also involves managing resources and coaching a team of security support staff to ensure operational effectiveness, with the possibility of being called to duty on short notice.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Security Associate will be responsible for a variety of key accountabilities and responsibilities, including: reviewing security threats and risks in detail, compiling accurate reports on trends that could impact WFP operations, and ensuring that information is accurately collated and sent to senior security staff. The role involves liaising with local administration, security and law enforcement authorities, and other stakeholders to facilitate safe program delivery. The Security Associate will conduct field trips to support staff in the field, plan and coordinate staff activities during field missions, and perform security assessments. Additionally, the role includes analyzing security assessment reports, advising senior management on security risk management, supporting the implementation of risk management measures, and maintaining security equipment. The Security Associate will also deliver security training to staff, supervise and provide on-the-job training to other staff, and represent WFP in the UN Central Mindanao Security Cell group.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a multicultural and multidisciplinary environment. Strong resourcefulness, initiative, sound judgment, and tact in handling complex situations are essential. Training and/or experience in security risk management, particularly in relation to UN-supported peacekeeping or stabilization activities, is highly desirable. Proven ability to establish priorities, plan, coordinate, and monitor work for self and team members is required. Experience in coordinating with diverse security stakeholders, including government security forces and NGOs, is considered an asset.

Educational Background:
The minimum educational requirement for this position is the completion of secondary school education. A specialization or university degree in political/social science, international relations, law enforcement, or business management is preferred but not mandatory.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least six (6) years of professional experience in a relevant field, preferably in Security Management, with a background and interest in international humanitarian development. Work experience in military services and with UN agencies or international organizations is considered an asset.

Languages:
Excellent written and oral communication skills in English and Filipino are mandatory. A working knowledge of any BARMM language is desirable, enhancing the ability to communicate effectively with local communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is a Service Contract with a duration of 12 months, with the possibility of extension. It is open to Filipino nationals only. The role offers an attractive compensation package, including medical coverage extendable to eligible dependents, leave benefits, and other applicable entitlements. WFP is committed to providing an inclusive work environment and supports individuals with disabilities by providing reasonable accommodations throughout the recruitment process. All applications must be submitted exclusively through WFP's online recruitment system, and candidates are advised to ensure their profiles are complete and accurate.