Access & Security Manager

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a non-profit, non-governmental international humanitarian and development organization that was established in the United States and the United Kingdom. The organization has been operational since 1986 in Palestine and has expanded its reach to over 40 countries worldwide. Mercy Corps is dedicated to creating a better world by fostering diversity within its teams, believing that a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills contribute to stronger outcomes and long-term impact. In the Middle East, Mercy Corps has been active in implementing relief and development programs for over a decade, with staff based in East Jerusalem, Ramallah, and Gaza, working to address the needs of communities in the Palestinian territories.

Job Overview:
The Access & security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security-manager" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Manager plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of Mercy Corps staff and operations in Gaza. This position is responsible for monitoring the overall security situation, enforcing security regulations, and providing timely advice to staff and management. The manager will coordinate access within Gaza, oversee security protocols, and build capacity among staff at field locations. The role also involves serving as interim surge support to the Mercy Corps team in Gaza, providing technical guidance in safety, security, and access matters. The Access & Security Manager will work closely with program teams to assess the feasibility of establishing operations in new or changing locations, ensuring that all staff are supported and informed regarding security matters.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Access & Security Manager will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including advising Emergency Response and program teams on safety and operational security policies, conducting security training for staff, ensuring compliance with the Mercy Corps Security Management framework, and managing security protocols for facilities. The manager will evaluate and update evacuation plans, compile security reports, and maintain communication with the Emergency Response Director and Country Director. Additionally, the role involves identifying barriers to humanitarian access, supporting program teams in developing mitigation strategies, and monitoring incidents and trends related to humanitarian access. The manager will also issue and monitor Notifications of Humanitarian Movements as necessary.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Access & Security Manager position must possess a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in security management or risk management within an NGO context. They should have at least 5 years of experience working in high-risk environments and have completed a US/UK certified HEAT/HEST course within the last two years. Experience in Civic-Military Coordination and certification in Security Risk Management are desirable. A solid understanding of humanitarian and resilience programming is required, along with prior experience in the OPT/Gaza region. Candidates should also have experience in critical incident management and excellent communication skills, with the ability to work effectively in a multicultural and high-risk environment.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a degree in a relevant field related to security management, risk management, or international relations. Additional certifications in security risk management or related areas are highly desirable and will enhance a candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
The Access & Security Manager should have a minimum of 3 years of experience in security management or risk management, specifically within an NGO context. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in high-risk environments for at least 5 years, demonstrating their ability to navigate complex security situations and implement effective safety measures.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, as effective communication is crucial in a high-risk environment. Knowledge of Arabic is considered a plus, as it can facilitate better communication with local staff and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position may involve a minimum contract duration of four weeks, with the possibility of extending the rotation period. The role is expected to be full-time, and the consultant may be required to rotate in and out of Gaza to ensure continuous support for the team. Mercy Corps is committed to equal employment opportunities and fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. The organization emphasizes the importance of safeguarding and ethical conduct, ensuring that all team members adhere to the highest standards of respect and dignity in their interactions.