Senior Security Manager - Mexico

Job Posting Organization:
CIMMYT is a cutting-edge, non-profit, international organization dedicated to addressing the challenges of agricultural production systems, particularly in the Global South. Established with the mission to improve the quantity, quality, and reliability of basic cereals such as maize, wheat, and other associated crops, CIMMYT focuses on fostering partnerships that enhance the livelihoods of resource-poor farmers. The organization operates in multiple countries, emphasizing the importance of agricultural science and innovation to create a more productive and resilient agrifood system. With a commitment to sustainability and inclusivity, CIMMYT plays a crucial role in addressing global security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security challenges.

Job Overview:
The Senior Security Manager – Mexico is tasked with providing strategic and operational leadership to ensure the safety and security of CIMMYT’s personnel, assets, and mission across Mexico. This role is pivotal in establishing a robust security management framework that enables safe program delivery while fostering a culture of security within the organization. The position requires a deep understanding of Mexico’s security landscape, including regional threats and the institutional ecosystem involving local authorities and emergency services. The incumbent will be responsible for managing a comprehensive security strategy that encompasses crime trends, organized crime dynamics, and critical incident response, ensuring high standards of duty-of-care for all staff and operations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Security Manager will lead all physical security operations at CIMMYT’s headquarters and various sites, overseeing access control, visitor management, and the performance of security personnel. Responsibilities include conducting regular security surveys, developing site-specific security plans, and maintaining security inventory. The role also involves managing travel security processes, conducting risk assessments, and ensuring compliance with security policies and procedures. The manager will serve as the focal point for crisis management and incident response, coordinating with local authorities and developing crisis management plans. Additionally, the position requires designing and delivering security training tailored to the evolving risk context in Mexico, maintaining relationships with key stakeholders, and managing the security budget effectively.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Security Management, Risk Management, Criminology, International Relations, Public Safety, or a related field. A minimum of 10 years of progressive, senior-level experience in security management is required, with at least 5 years of direct leadership experience in Mexico. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in Mexico’s security environment, a comprehensive understanding of local crime dynamics, and proven ability to manage various security threats. Experience in counter-terrorism and hostage negotiations, as well as established relationships with local law enforcement and emergency services, is essential. Candidates should also have experience supporting international organizations and applying rigorous duty-of-care standards.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in relevant fields such as Security Management, Risk Management, Criminology, International Relations, or Public Safety. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of security management and risk assessment in a challenging environment like Mexico.

Experience:
The role demands a minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in security management, with at least 5 years in a leadership capacity within Mexico. Candidates should have demonstrated experience operating in high-risk environments and managing the full spectrum of security threats, including organized crime and critical incident response. Experience in international organizations and a strong understanding of local security contexts are highly valued.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish is mandatory, along with strong professional proficiency in English. Candidates must demonstrate an advanced level of English, both written and conversational, with a minimum score of C1 on the CEFR. This bilingual proficiency is essential for effective communication and collaboration within the organization and with external stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
CIMMYT offers an attractive remuneration package that includes benefits beyond the provisions of Mexican Labor Law, such as a year-end bonus, vacation premium, life and medical insurance, and various social benefits. The organization promotes a multicultural work environment that values diversity and gender equality, encouraging women to apply. The position is based in Texcoco, near Mexico City, and candidates must apply online, including a CV in English. The recruitment process will remain open until the position is filled, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.