CHIEF SECURITY OFFICER

Organizational Context

The United Nations Support Office in Haiti (UNSOH) provides support to the Gang Suppression Force, the UN Integrated Office in Haiti, the Haitian National Police, and the Haitian Armed Forces. UNSOH also delivers technical assistance to the Organization of American States. This role, based in Port-au-Prince within the Safety and Security Section, reports to the Head of UNSOH and technically to UNDSS PSA, serving as the principal security officer.

Job Purpose

The Chief Security Officer (CSO) is responsible for all security management functions for UNSOH, aligning with the United Nations Security Management System. The role ensures the safety and security of UNSOH personnel and their dependents, enabling effective mission operations. Key duties include budget preparation for the security component, recruitment and management of security personnel, and serving as the primary security advisor on all safety and security matters. The CSO oversees crisis readiness, application of UN security policies, supervision of the Security Section, and participation in inter-agency security coordination. This position is crucial for integrating security into mission planning, managing emergency response systems, and ensuring physical security measures are in place.

Responsibilities

The Chief Security Officer (CSO) manages all UNSOH security functions within the UN Security Management System, ensuring personnel safety and enabling mission operations. Responsibilities include security budget preparation, recruitment, deployment, and performance management of security staff. The CSO acts as the primary security advisor, overseeing crisis readiness, implementing UN security policies, and supervising the Security Section. This involves participating in the Security Coordination Cell for inter-agency cooperation, conducting threat and risk assessments, and analyzing security information to establish early-warning systems. The role ensures security is integrated into mission planning and operations, establishes a 24-hour emergency response system, and coordinates field missions. Responsibilities also cover monitoring physical security, conducting site surveys, managing residential security measures, and updating security and contingency plans. The CSO liaises with local authorities and international organizations for crisis response, oversees emergency communications, conducts investigations into suspicious incidents, directs in-country security training, and supports VIP visits.

Work Experience

A minimum of ten years of relevant professional experience is required, with at least five years in a command or leadership role, including crisis management experience. Five years of experience within the UN security management system and three years in a special political or peacekeeping mission are also required. Experience in managing security units in multicultural, integrated, or post-conflict environments, security planning, risk assessment, emergency communications, and crisis management is desirable.

Skills

Professionalism, Teamwork, Planning & Organizing, Leadership, Judgment & Decision-making, Security Management, Budget Administration, Crisis Management, Risk Assessment, Security Training, Inter-agency Coordination, Investigation, Communication Systems Management.

Explore related opportunities