Security Officer
Organizational Context
UN Women is dedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls, working to eliminate discrimination and achieve equality between men and women. As a key entity within the UN system, it leads efforts to integrate gender equality into development, human rights, humanitarian action, and peace and security initiatives. This role is based in Nairobi, Kenya, supporting the UN Women Country Office, Regional Office, and Global Offices, operating within the UN Women Security Framework of Accountability.
Job Purpose
This Security Officer position, based in Nairobi, Kenya, is crucial for supporting the UN Women Country Office, East and Southern Africa Regional Office, and Global Offices. The role operates under the direct supervision of the UN Women Kenya Country Representative, with a technical reporting line to the Regional Security Specialist. The incumbent will provide essential security support, advice, and guidance to ensure the safety and security of UN Women personnel, premises, and assets. This involves monitoring threats, implementing security policies, responding to incidents, and coordinating with various stakeholders, including UN DSS and host country security apparatus, to maintain a secure operating environment.
Responsibilities
The Security Officer will provide comprehensive operational and technical security support to UN Women offices in Kenya. Key duties include offering timely security advice, approving missions, and supporting the Country Representative in security management team functions. The role involves monitoring the implementation of security policies, overseeing security evaluations, and advising on residential security measures. Responding to security incidents, coordinating with UN DSS and local authorities, and tracking evolving threats are critical. The officer will conduct security assessments of premises and operations, liaise with local security communities, and represent UN Women in security forums. Responsibilities also include collecting and disseminating security information, developing and implementing the UN Women Security Plan, managing security equipment procurement, and ensuring compliance with Security Risk Management Measures (SRMM). Furthermore, the role entails reporting security incidents, developing and conducting security awareness training, and performing other security-related tasks such as air travel support and liaison with security service providers.
Work Experience
A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in security management is required, including experience in programme management within a development context. Desirable experience includes work in gender equality and gender responsiveness in security, budget management for field support, conducting security risk assessments, and familiarity with conflict operations. Knowledge of the UN Security Policy Manual is highly desirable.
Skills
Core values include Respect for Diversity, Integrity, and Professionalism. Key competencies encompass Awareness and Sensitivity Regarding Gender Issues, Accountability, Creative Problem Solving, Effective Communication, Inclusive Collaboration, Stakeholder Engagement, and Leading by Example. Functional competencies include strong knowledge of business operations, security and risk management, local security situations, UN policies, analytical skills, strategic advisory capabilities, and maintaining confidentiality. Expertise areas include safety and security, training, capacity building, and legal affairs.