Sep 22, 2020

Operations & Security Manager, Iraq

Employer: MSI 
Location: Erbil, IraqClosing date 18 Oct 2020

Operations & Security Manager, USAID/Iraq Performance Management and Evaluation Services (PMES), Erbil

Project Summary: 

Under the recently-awarded Iraq PMES contract, MSI provides USAID/Iraq with utilization-driven support in the areas of project/activity monitoring, evaluation, research, organizational learning, and knowledge management. The primary goal of the contract is to improve performance management at all levels to help the Mission meet Agency requirements, make better informed strategic and management decisions, and advance USAID learning on effective development approaches. The project involves services across four components: (1) Performance Management, (2) Evaluation Services, (3) M&E Capacity Building, and (4) Collaboration, Learning and Adapting. The project will have offices Baghdad and Erbil.

**Please note: Only Iraqi citizens are eligible for this position

Position Summary:
The Operations & Security Manager (OSM) will manage day-to-day office operation, including safety and security of PMES personnel. The OSM will support transportation, travel and movement coordination and logistics. The OSM will report to the Deputy Chief of Party (DCOP). This is a full-time position based in Erbil.

Responsibilities:
Security:
Continually monitor and analyze security conditions in the country in general, and more specifically in the areas where the project works, via local media, security reports, and information collected from field-based staff and local partners
Help assess security risks that may impact staff movements and safety in different parts of the country and communicate them in a timely manner to ensure timely decision-making and up-to-date situational awareness
Communicate safety and security developments and analysis to staff on a regular basis
Ensure the continued relevance and consistent implementation of Standard Operating Procedures related to the health, safety and security of the field-based staff
Recommend changes to security or logistics procedures in conjunction with the DCOP and the HQ Security Manager, when appropriate
Ensure a constant update of the emergency contact list and the issuance of badges on time
Evaluate, review and update the lock down, hibernation and evacuation plans for MSI in Iraq and ensure that the practical preparations are in place and known to all staff involved and in coordination with security service provider
Follow up on actions to be taken to ensure compliance with safety and security standards
Serve as the project's Security Focal Point (SFP) and provide regular updates and trainings to project staff on basic security topics such as fire safety, communications, etc.
Serve as SFP with security service provider in regards visitors' entry, workplace health, and safety and security protocols
Ensure drill and trainings required by MSI security policy are completed on schedule
Issue regular security and safety updates to project staff, and coordinate emergency messaging in the event of a crisis in accordance with the PMES phone tree and security manual
Create an information network in the project operational areas
Build strong professional relationships with UN agencies, local authorities, other operators, (local and international) and other relevant actors
Participate in security coordination meetings and stay aware of current security problems

Operations:
Oversee the project's logistics, organize and arrange domestic travel, trainings, hotel accommodations, transportation and communication, program related meetings, conferences, etc.
Serve as the point of contact with PMES security subcontractor, including arranging secure transport as well as local authorities
Prepare journey management plans, coordinate travel tracking and check in systems to support all staff movements
Orientation and security briefing for local and international staff, consultants, and subcontractor staff
Support visa process for expats and suggest necessary SOPs to be followed in compliance with local regulations
Support and manage the relation with IZ badge office to ensure IZ badge issuance is possible and completed in timely manner
Serve as a focal point with local authorities when needed
Manage necessary filling in regards MSI's paperwork with Municipality council, Residency office, and provide guidance and support with local authority's inspections visit when needed
Assist with office procurements as needed and requested by the DCOP
Provide other logistical support as needed

Qualifications:
Bachelors' degree preferred
A minimum of five years of experience conducting security analyses, planning and managing security operations, training and supporting sound security procedures and operations, and coordinating logistics
Ability to exercise sound judgement in crisis and emergency situations
Strong self-initiative, ability to implement and manage program activities and act proactively without waiting for instructions
Strong English speaking and writing capabilities

Only candidates who have been selected for an interview will be contacted. No phone calls, please.

MSI is an EEO/AA/ADA Veterans Employer.