Humanitarian Access and Safety Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is an independent humanitarian organization established to assist people who have been forced to flee their homes due to conflict and crises. With a workforce of approximately 15,000 staff members, NRC operates in 40 countries worldwide, providing life-saving and long-term assistance to millions of individuals each year. NRC Afghanistan is the largest international non-governmental organization (INGO) in the country, with a significant presence across 11 provinces and multiple field offices, employing over 450 staff members and collaborating with six local partners. The organization is dedicated to addressing the urgent humanitarian needs of vulnerable populations, particularly those affected by displacement, and is committed to integrating protection, advocacy, and emergency response into its programming.

Job Overview:
The Humanitarian Access and Safety Manager will play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security of NRC's operations in Afghanistan. This position involves developing and implementing strategies and procedures to mitigate risks associated with humanitarian access and safety. The role requires a proactive approach to risk management, including the promotion of a risk management culture within the organization. The manager will oversee the implementation of the Humanitarian Access and Safety Risk Management System and the Global Health, Safety, and Security Management System. Additionally, the role includes providing strategic advice to country management, developing and maintaining safety documents and procedures, and supporting the training and capacity development of NRC staff. The manager will also be responsible for networking and collaborating with external security actors to enhance the safety of NRC operations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Humanitarian Access and Safety Manager include:

• Implementing the Humanitarian Access and Safety Risk Management System to ensure compliance with minimum safety standards.
• Developing and implementing the Global Health, Safety, and Security Management System.
• Promoting a risk management culture within NRC to enhance overall safety awareness among staff.
• Providing oversight and support for the safety of NRC staff, assets, operations, and the organization's reputation.
• Offering strategic advice to the country management team regarding safety and access issues.
• Developing and maintaining safety-related documents, procedures, guidance, tools, strategies, and budgets.
• Managing staff performance, including workforce planning, recruitment, induction, and development.
• Supporting the training and capacity development of NRC staff in safety and security protocols.
• Networking and cooperating with external security actors to ensure effective communication and collaboration on safety matters.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Humanitarian Access and Safety Manager position should possess the following qualifications:

• Proven senior management experience in a humanitarian or recovery context.
• Exposure to humanitarian access analysis and civil-military coordination.
• Expertise in staff training, development, coaching, and mentoring.
• Familiarity with complex security contexts, including improvised explosive device attacks, target killings, and the presence of armed opposition groups.
• Strong understanding of the volatile security situation in Afghanistan and its implications for humanitarian operations.
• Excellent interpersonal, networking, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to build constructive relationships with external parties and foster a collaborative work environment.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is essential for this position. Candidates should ideally hold a degree in a field related to humanitarian studies, international relations, security management, or a similar discipline. Advanced degrees or specialized training in safety and security management will be considered an asset.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have significant experience in humanitarian access and safety management, with a minimum of several years in senior management roles within humanitarian organizations. Experience working in complex and volatile contexts, particularly in Afghanistan or similar environments, is highly desirable. The candidate should also have a proven track record of developing and implementing effective safety strategies and risk management systems.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and verbal, is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the region or the communities served by NRC will be considered a valuable asset, enhancing communication and engagement with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Kabul, Afghanistan, with a contract duration of 12 months. The role requires approximately 60% travel within the country to various field locations. The position is classified as Grade 9 in NRC's International Salary Scale, which comes with a competitive compensation and benefits package. NRC is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds, particularly women and individuals from underrepresented groups. The organization emphasizes the importance of safeguarding and expects all employees to contribute to a safe and respectful work environment.