Hiring organization: UNDP
Job location: Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
The conflict in the Sahel is caused by a complex interplay of factors, including political marginalization and grievances, jihadi ideologies, competition over natural resources, different streams of organized transborder crime, and locally confined inter-and intra-community conflicts. Rivalries between pastoralist and sedentary communities have intensified. Climate change and related natural hazards such as droughts and floods further aggravate socio-economic vulnerabilities. The Liptako Gourma (LG) area, comprised of bordering regions in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, has since 2015, increasingly become one of the epicenters of violence in the Sahel, experiencing a proliferation of armed groups. The Burkina Faso window of the LG Stabilization facility (BFLGSF) focuses on an accelerated and scaled stabilization effort in fragile and instable zones for long-term stability as state services and authorities are redeployed to avoid the return of jihadists.
The security situation in Burkina Faso also remains a concern as the uncertainty and recent insecurity not only heighten the vulnerability of the UN to jihadist attacks, but it also increases risks to UNDP Country Office and Stabilization Facility programmatic activities, personnel and assets. The threats against the United Nations, and by extension UNDP, are multifold and transcend borders. The global terrorist threat in particular, which has significantly impacted the UN in the past, the wide range of programmatic activities, which by nature also require operating in environments of armed conflict or in areas affected by natural disasters, necessitate that the organizations develop and maintain a responsive and client-oriented mechanism to address security needs enabling programme delivery.
Considering the sudden deterioration in the security conditions impacting UN personnel and operations, the UNDP Country Office (CO) and Burkina Faso LGSF is in need of senior-level expertise in security management to lead and deliver the implementation of Security Risk Management strategies, including security risk assessments, contingency planning, emergency preparedness and response to enable programmatic delivery while ensuring operational compliance to security measures. The incumbent will be required to travel throughout the country as required.
The Field Security Specialist (FSS) in coordination and cooperation with UNDSS and UNDP security structure, as Subject Matter Expert on-field security, would perform advisory and operational support functions to the Country Office. The duties and responsibilities of the FSS include crisis preparedness and contingency planning, emergency operations and activities relative to the safety and security of all UNDP personnel, eligible dependents, eligible partners and contractors, resources, UNDP premises, assets, project facilities, programmes, and projects in addition to promoting, enabling and supporting UNDP programme delivery throughout the individual country of responsibility while ensuring compliance with all United Nations security policies, procedures and regulations. This will be achieved through:Advising that UNDP security support should feature prominently in the programming process at the country office level as well as in the case of each individual project, from project identification, planning, budgeting, implementation and right through to monitoring and evaluation.
Providing operational support facilitating internalization and operationalization of security management measures
Advising Country Office management on contributions to the locally cost-shared security budgets
Strengthening the security arrangements of UNDP and maintaining a security support network of international and national security personnel.
Position Purpose
At the field Level, the FSS will be supervised by the Resident Representative (RR), who will serve as the primary supervisor. The FSS will, in consultation with the RR, and close collaboration with DRR and OM, respond to requests from the DO/DSS, to perform UN system related security tasks for UNDP.
In terms of functional matters related to UNDP corporate security, the FSS will report to the UNDP Security Office through the Regional Security Advisor RBA/Sub Regional Security Specialist, who will also provide policy and technical guidance to the FSS.
UNDP adopts a portfolio approach to accommodate changing business needs and leverage linkages across interventions to achieve its strategic goals. Therefore, UNDP personnel are expected to work across units, functions, teams, and projects in multidisciplinary teams in order to enhance and enable horizontal collaboration.
Duties and Responsibilities
Provide leadership support in security management and policy guidance to enable effective UNDP programme delivery throughout a large and/or complex country within the framework of UN and UNDP security policies and procedures while protecting and minimizing risk to UNDP personnel and operations in covered locations. In consultation with the UN Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS) in the Country Office, support and conduct security risk management for the UN Security Management Systems (SMS) and UNDP Programmes. Ensure the mainstreaming of security and security costs into all levels of programme design, implementation and delivery through the substantive monitoring of ongoing and future projects, programmes and costs; and provide innovative and proactive support, direction and solutions in complex situations where required under guidance of Senior Field Security Specialist or DRR.
Contribute substantively to the UN SMS-wide security risk management process in designated/security area. Ensure security support needs are identified and provided based on review of possible impacts of potential security factors and trends on UNDP planning, programme design and delivery as well as the possible impact of programme design on stability and security.
Conduct security risk assessment of operations in the districts and regions where UNDP projects are implemented; and identify and implement appropriate risk mitigation measures.
Support implementation of person-centered security risk management approaches where security assessments and resultant security measures and procedures are guided by a nuanced evaluation of specific threats or vulnerabilities in a country facing conflict, political unrest or other volatility.
Assist and provide substantive inputs to UNDSS in preparing the security risk management process and other country security documents of country/areas where UNDP staff, dependents and equipment are present.
Work in collaboration with the UN Department of Security and Safety (UNDSS) and assist in leading the country office security team to ensure that UNDP procedures conform to the UN security framework. Provide inputs and assist UNDSS in establishing, maintaining and updating country specific security and contingency plans in accordance with the UN Security Policy Manual (SPM) as well as providing security related contributions to updating emergency business continuity plans for the country office in concert with the UN Country Team business continuity plan and guidance from the Regional Security Advisor.
Ensure that all UNDP personnel are included in the Security Plan of the respective country offices being prepared by the UNDSS, which will include working in collaboration with HR and other relevant units to maintain and incorporate in those Security Plans an updated list of all UNDP personnel.
Formulate and test UNDP specific security and contingency plans and support the testing of CO Business Continuity Plans.
Develop and deliver security orientation and training to UNDP personnel on security guidelines and procedures, and security awareness in a country.
Coordinate with UNDSS in implementation of fire safety, first aid, and radio communications training for the appropriate staff members.
Monitor security compliance of UNDP personnel, operations and equipment and advise on selection and procurement of appropriate security equipment.
Monitor and oversee security compliance of UNDP premises and international staff residences.Support the implementation of physical security and security risk management measures for UNDP premises, and as requested, participate in ensuring security management oversight of common premises.
Conduct periodic appropriate security assessments of UNDP premises and equipment and advise on shortfalls in security preparedness with recommended improvements, solutions and implementation.
Represent UNDP security interests in any common premises that UNDP occupies in the country ensuring that staff safety and security are primary considerations.
Provide timely and accurate security advice and briefings to UNDP Management and Personnel and collaborate with key security partners internally and externally to ensure a constant flow of information on important security matters affecting UNDP programmes, the Country Office and its personnel.
Produce security reports as required by the Country Office and the Security Office in a timely and efficient manner.For all security related incidents involving UNDP staff and eligible dependents, coordinate with the Department of Safety and Security (DSS) on 24-hour response, and immediately report such incidents to the UNDP Security Office (or Senior Field Security Specialist if present in the duty station) and UNDSS in the country.
Establish and/or implement internal communication systems and ensure UNDP communications are integrated into the appropriate UN Security Emergency Communications System.
Liaise with and coordinate activities of partner organizations and counterparts in the planning, preparation and execution of missions, ensuring the safety and security of UNDP staff as the highest priority.
Maintain a security network of international and national security personnel. Participate as a member of the security cell established by DSS in the country and participate in inter-agency security coordination efforts.
Contribute to knowledge networks and professional communities.
The incumbent performs other duties within their functional profile as deemed necessary for the efficient functioning of the Office and the Organization.
Competencies
Core Competencies
Achieve Results-LEVEL 3: Set and align challenging, achievable objectives for multiple projects, have lasting impact
Think Innovatively-LEVEL 3: Proactively mitigate potential risks, develop new ideas to solve complex problems
Learn Continuously-LEVEL 3: Create and act on opportunities to expand horizons, diversify experiences
Adapt with Agility-LEVEL 3: Proactively initiate and champion change, manage multiple competing demands
Act with Determination-LEVEL 3: Think beyond immediate task/barriers and take action to achieve greater results
Engage and Partner-LEVEL 3: Political savvy, navigate complex landscape, champion inter-agency collaboration
Enable Diversity and Inclusion-LEVEL 3: Appreciate benefits of diverse workforce and champion inclusivity
Cross-Functional & Technical Competencies
Business Management-Portfolio Management: Ability to select, prioritize and control the organization’s programmes and projects, in line with its strategic objectives and capacity; ability to balance the implementation of change initiatives and the maintenance of business-as-usual, while optimizing return on investment
Business Direction & Strategy-System Thinking: Ability to use objective problem analysis and judgement to understand how interrelated elements coexist within an overall process or system, and to consider how altering one element can impact on other parts of the system
Security Services-Security advice, planning and coordination: Ability to provide with authoritative advice and guidance on security management, plan and coordinate security activities
Security Services-Security information management: Analytical capabilities to process diverse security information and develop recommendations
Security Services-Security risk management: Ability to assess threats and risks, identify and oversee implementation of mitigation measures, including ability to design and test security plans
Security Services-Physical/premises security design, implementation and management: Ability to conduct accurate premises assessments on UN facilities to ensure appropriate mitigation measures are in place. Ability to design, support the implementation and test physical security systems for UNDP premises
Security Services-Security crisis management & response: Knowledge of crisis management and response arrangements as well as the ability to prepare for, respond to, support/manage security crisis events
Required Skills and Experience
Education:
An advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) preferably in Social Sciences, Management, or related security field is required, or
A first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in combination with two years of qualifying work experience will be given due consideration in lieu of the advanced university degree, or
A formal multi-year education in security management, such as military or police Command and Staff College (minimum 9 months full-time) with senior level command experience.
Formal training in security risk management is required.
Experience:
Minimum 5 years (with master’s degree) or 7 years (with bachelor’s degree or formal multi-year security management education) of relevant security or development experience.
Experience in the use of computers and office software packages (MS Word, Excel, etc.) and advanced knowledge of web-based management systems such as ERP is required.
Previous experience working in a conflict/post-conflict or crisis environment is an asset.
Previous experience working for a United Nations organization with knowledge of the UN Security Management System as well as UNDP business, operations and programming cycle and Country Office structure/roles and responsibilities is an asset,
Experience and knowledge of security issues in Burkina Faso, particularly in the most affected areas is desired.
Experience to work in a multicultural and multiethnic environment is desired.
Language :Fluency in written and spoken French is required.
Working knowledge of English will be an asset.
Note: Please upload copies of your academic qualifications, SRM CERTIFICATE and 3 latest Performance Evaluations (if applicable).
Please note that continuance of appointment beyond the initial 12 months is contingent upon the successful completion of a probationary period.
Disclaimer
Important information for US Permanent Residents ('Green Card' holders)
Under US immigration law, acceptance of a staff position with UNDP, an international organization, may have significant implications for US Permanent Residents. UNDP advises applicants for all professional level posts that they must relinquish their US Permanent Resident status and accept a G-4 visa, or have submitted a valid application for US citizenship prior to commencement of employment.
UNDP is not in a position to provide advice or assistance on applying for US citizenship and therefore applicants are advised to seek the advice of competent immigration lawyers regarding any applications.
Applicant information about UNDP rosters
Note: UNDP reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement. We may also retain applications and consider candidates applying to this post for other similar positions with UNDP at the same grade level and with similar job description, experience and educational requirements.
Non-discrimination
UNDP has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and misconduct, sexual harassment, and abuse of authority. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles.
UNDP is an equal opportunity and inclusive employer that does not discriminate based on race, sex, gender identity, religion, nationality, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy, age, language, social origin or other status.
Apply Now
Job location: Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
The conflict in the Sahel is caused by a complex interplay of factors, including political marginalization and grievances, jihadi ideologies, competition over natural resources, different streams of organized transborder crime, and locally confined inter-and intra-community conflicts. Rivalries between pastoralist and sedentary communities have intensified. Climate change and related natural hazards such as droughts and floods further aggravate socio-economic vulnerabilities. The Liptako Gourma (LG) area, comprised of bordering regions in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, has since 2015, increasingly become one of the epicenters of violence in the Sahel, experiencing a proliferation of armed groups. The Burkina Faso window of the LG Stabilization facility (BFLGSF) focuses on an accelerated and scaled stabilization effort in fragile and instable zones for long-term stability as state services and authorities are redeployed to avoid the return of jihadists.
The security situation in Burkina Faso also remains a concern as the uncertainty and recent insecurity not only heighten the vulnerability of the UN to jihadist attacks, but it also increases risks to UNDP Country Office and Stabilization Facility programmatic activities, personnel and assets. The threats against the United Nations, and by extension UNDP, are multifold and transcend borders. The global terrorist threat in particular, which has significantly impacted the UN in the past, the wide range of programmatic activities, which by nature also require operating in environments of armed conflict or in areas affected by natural disasters, necessitate that the organizations develop and maintain a responsive and client-oriented mechanism to address security needs enabling programme delivery.
Considering the sudden deterioration in the security conditions impacting UN personnel and operations, the UNDP Country Office (CO) and Burkina Faso LGSF is in need of senior-level expertise in security management to lead and deliver the implementation of Security Risk Management strategies, including security risk assessments, contingency planning, emergency preparedness and response to enable programmatic delivery while ensuring operational compliance to security measures. The incumbent will be required to travel throughout the country as required.
The Field Security Specialist (FSS) in coordination and cooperation with UNDSS and UNDP security structure, as Subject Matter Expert on-field security, would perform advisory and operational support functions to the Country Office. The duties and responsibilities of the FSS include crisis preparedness and contingency planning, emergency operations and activities relative to the safety and security of all UNDP personnel, eligible dependents, eligible partners and contractors, resources, UNDP premises, assets, project facilities, programmes, and projects in addition to promoting, enabling and supporting UNDP programme delivery throughout the individual country of responsibility while ensuring compliance with all United Nations security policies, procedures and regulations. This will be achieved through:Advising that UNDP security support should feature prominently in the programming process at the country office level as well as in the case of each individual project, from project identification, planning, budgeting, implementation and right through to monitoring and evaluation.
Providing operational support facilitating internalization and operationalization of security management measures
Advising Country Office management on contributions to the locally cost-shared security budgets
Strengthening the security arrangements of UNDP and maintaining a security support network of international and national security personnel.
Position Purpose
At the field Level, the FSS will be supervised by the Resident Representative (RR), who will serve as the primary supervisor. The FSS will, in consultation with the RR, and close collaboration with DRR and OM, respond to requests from the DO/DSS, to perform UN system related security tasks for UNDP.
In terms of functional matters related to UNDP corporate security, the FSS will report to the UNDP Security Office through the Regional Security Advisor RBA/Sub Regional Security Specialist, who will also provide policy and technical guidance to the FSS.
UNDP adopts a portfolio approach to accommodate changing business needs and leverage linkages across interventions to achieve its strategic goals. Therefore, UNDP personnel are expected to work across units, functions, teams, and projects in multidisciplinary teams in order to enhance and enable horizontal collaboration.
Duties and Responsibilities
Provide leadership support in security management and policy guidance to enable effective UNDP programme delivery throughout a large and/or complex country within the framework of UN and UNDP security policies and procedures while protecting and minimizing risk to UNDP personnel and operations in covered locations. In consultation with the UN Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS) in the Country Office, support and conduct security risk management for the UN Security Management Systems (SMS) and UNDP Programmes. Ensure the mainstreaming of security and security costs into all levels of programme design, implementation and delivery through the substantive monitoring of ongoing and future projects, programmes and costs; and provide innovative and proactive support, direction and solutions in complex situations where required under guidance of Senior Field Security Specialist or DRR.
Contribute substantively to the UN SMS-wide security risk management process in designated/security area. Ensure security support needs are identified and provided based on review of possible impacts of potential security factors and trends on UNDP planning, programme design and delivery as well as the possible impact of programme design on stability and security.
Conduct security risk assessment of operations in the districts and regions where UNDP projects are implemented; and identify and implement appropriate risk mitigation measures.
Support implementation of person-centered security risk management approaches where security assessments and resultant security measures and procedures are guided by a nuanced evaluation of specific threats or vulnerabilities in a country facing conflict, political unrest or other volatility.
Assist and provide substantive inputs to UNDSS in preparing the security risk management process and other country security documents of country/areas where UNDP staff, dependents and equipment are present.
Work in collaboration with the UN Department of Security and Safety (UNDSS) and assist in leading the country office security team to ensure that UNDP procedures conform to the UN security framework. Provide inputs and assist UNDSS in establishing, maintaining and updating country specific security and contingency plans in accordance with the UN Security Policy Manual (SPM) as well as providing security related contributions to updating emergency business continuity plans for the country office in concert with the UN Country Team business continuity plan and guidance from the Regional Security Advisor.
Ensure that all UNDP personnel are included in the Security Plan of the respective country offices being prepared by the UNDSS, which will include working in collaboration with HR and other relevant units to maintain and incorporate in those Security Plans an updated list of all UNDP personnel.
Formulate and test UNDP specific security and contingency plans and support the testing of CO Business Continuity Plans.
Develop and deliver security orientation and training to UNDP personnel on security guidelines and procedures, and security awareness in a country.
Coordinate with UNDSS in implementation of fire safety, first aid, and radio communications training for the appropriate staff members.
Monitor security compliance of UNDP personnel, operations and equipment and advise on selection and procurement of appropriate security equipment.
Monitor and oversee security compliance of UNDP premises and international staff residences.Support the implementation of physical security and security risk management measures for UNDP premises, and as requested, participate in ensuring security management oversight of common premises.
Conduct periodic appropriate security assessments of UNDP premises and equipment and advise on shortfalls in security preparedness with recommended improvements, solutions and implementation.
Represent UNDP security interests in any common premises that UNDP occupies in the country ensuring that staff safety and security are primary considerations.
Provide timely and accurate security advice and briefings to UNDP Management and Personnel and collaborate with key security partners internally and externally to ensure a constant flow of information on important security matters affecting UNDP programmes, the Country Office and its personnel.
Produce security reports as required by the Country Office and the Security Office in a timely and efficient manner.For all security related incidents involving UNDP staff and eligible dependents, coordinate with the Department of Safety and Security (DSS) on 24-hour response, and immediately report such incidents to the UNDP Security Office (or Senior Field Security Specialist if present in the duty station) and UNDSS in the country.
Establish and/or implement internal communication systems and ensure UNDP communications are integrated into the appropriate UN Security Emergency Communications System.
Liaise with and coordinate activities of partner organizations and counterparts in the planning, preparation and execution of missions, ensuring the safety and security of UNDP staff as the highest priority.
Maintain a security network of international and national security personnel. Participate as a member of the security cell established by DSS in the country and participate in inter-agency security coordination efforts.
Contribute to knowledge networks and professional communities.
The incumbent performs other duties within their functional profile as deemed necessary for the efficient functioning of the Office and the Organization.
Competencies
Core Competencies
Achieve Results-LEVEL 3: Set and align challenging, achievable objectives for multiple projects, have lasting impact
Think Innovatively-LEVEL 3: Proactively mitigate potential risks, develop new ideas to solve complex problems
Learn Continuously-LEVEL 3: Create and act on opportunities to expand horizons, diversify experiences
Adapt with Agility-LEVEL 3: Proactively initiate and champion change, manage multiple competing demands
Act with Determination-LEVEL 3: Think beyond immediate task/barriers and take action to achieve greater results
Engage and Partner-LEVEL 3: Political savvy, navigate complex landscape, champion inter-agency collaboration
Enable Diversity and Inclusion-LEVEL 3: Appreciate benefits of diverse workforce and champion inclusivity
Cross-Functional & Technical Competencies
Business Management-Portfolio Management: Ability to select, prioritize and control the organization’s programmes and projects, in line with its strategic objectives and capacity; ability to balance the implementation of change initiatives and the maintenance of business-as-usual, while optimizing return on investment
Business Direction & Strategy-System Thinking: Ability to use objective problem analysis and judgement to understand how interrelated elements coexist within an overall process or system, and to consider how altering one element can impact on other parts of the system
Security Services-Security advice, planning and coordination: Ability to provide with authoritative advice and guidance on security management, plan and coordinate security activities
Security Services-Security information management: Analytical capabilities to process diverse security information and develop recommendations
Security Services-Security risk management: Ability to assess threats and risks, identify and oversee implementation of mitigation measures, including ability to design and test security plans
Security Services-Physical/premises security design, implementation and management: Ability to conduct accurate premises assessments on UN facilities to ensure appropriate mitigation measures are in place. Ability to design, support the implementation and test physical security systems for UNDP premises
Security Services-Security crisis management & response: Knowledge of crisis management and response arrangements as well as the ability to prepare for, respond to, support/manage security crisis events
Required Skills and Experience
Education:
An advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) preferably in Social Sciences, Management, or related security field is required, or
A first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in combination with two years of qualifying work experience will be given due consideration in lieu of the advanced university degree, or
A formal multi-year education in security management, such as military or police Command and Staff College (minimum 9 months full-time) with senior level command experience.
Formal training in security risk management is required.
Experience:
Minimum 5 years (with master’s degree) or 7 years (with bachelor’s degree or formal multi-year security management education) of relevant security or development experience.
Experience in the use of computers and office software packages (MS Word, Excel, etc.) and advanced knowledge of web-based management systems such as ERP is required.
Previous experience working in a conflict/post-conflict or crisis environment is an asset.
Previous experience working for a United Nations organization with knowledge of the UN Security Management System as well as UNDP business, operations and programming cycle and Country Office structure/roles and responsibilities is an asset,
Experience and knowledge of security issues in Burkina Faso, particularly in the most affected areas is desired.
Experience to work in a multicultural and multiethnic environment is desired.
Language :Fluency in written and spoken French is required.
Working knowledge of English will be an asset.
Note: Please upload copies of your academic qualifications, SRM CERTIFICATE and 3 latest Performance Evaluations (if applicable).
Please note that continuance of appointment beyond the initial 12 months is contingent upon the successful completion of a probationary period.
Disclaimer
Important information for US Permanent Residents ('Green Card' holders)
Under US immigration law, acceptance of a staff position with UNDP, an international organization, may have significant implications for US Permanent Residents. UNDP advises applicants for all professional level posts that they must relinquish their US Permanent Resident status and accept a G-4 visa, or have submitted a valid application for US citizenship prior to commencement of employment.
UNDP is not in a position to provide advice or assistance on applying for US citizenship and therefore applicants are advised to seek the advice of competent immigration lawyers regarding any applications.
Applicant information about UNDP rosters
Note: UNDP reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement. We may also retain applications and consider candidates applying to this post for other similar positions with UNDP at the same grade level and with similar job description, experience and educational requirements.
Non-discrimination
UNDP has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and misconduct, sexual harassment, and abuse of authority. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles.
UNDP is an equal opportunity and inclusive employer that does not discriminate based on race, sex, gender identity, religion, nationality, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy, age, language, social origin or other status.
Apply Now