Roving Security and Safety Officer at Mercy Corps

About Mercy Corps

Mercy Corps is a leading global organization dedicated to the belief that a better world is possible. Operating in over 40 countries, we forge partnerships to implement innovative solutions, helping people overcome adversity and foster resilient communities. We are committed to creating lasting impact today and in the future.

Program / Department Summary

Considering the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, a significant number of people have been displaced across the country. As the situation continues to evolve, Mercy Corps is actively engaged in providing support and expanding its presence in Ukraine. We are involved in various partnerships, emergency response activities, and initiatives focused on cash, information protection, and other critical areas within this dynamic environment.

General Position Summary

The Roving Safety and Security Officer will be responsible for providing safety and security support throughout Ukraine, with the duty station based in Kyiv. This position requires regular travel and the ability to assess and respond to security risks in various locations. The officer will work closely with the security team, program staff, and local partners to ensure the safety and security of personnel, assets, and operations.

Essential Job Responsibilities
Security Management:

• Security Management: Take overall responsibility for the safety and security management of the assigned geographic area, as directed by the line management.
• Compliance with Standards: Ensure the implementation of Mercy Corps’ global and Ukraine’s minimum safety and security standards within the assigned area, as provided by the line management.
• Planning and Documentation: Develop, implement, and communicate the Local Security Management Plan, area-specific Contingency Plans, and necessary mitigation and prevention measures based on risk assessments, under the guidance of the line management.
• Adherence to Procedures: Monitor and ensure adherence to Mercy Corps Ukraine Response security management procedures across the assigned area.
• Risk Assessments: Conduct security risk assessments, including on-site visits to operational areas such as offices, accommodation, storage facilities, distribution centers, and training sites.
• Context Analysis: Analyze the security context and developments relevant to the assigned area, including ongoing risk assessments in collaboration with the team members.
• Emergency Response: Be prepared to respond and deploy on short notice for ad-hoc security trips to support incident management.
• System Monitoring: Proactively monitor the effectiveness of the security management system and provide recommendations for changes or improvements as necessary.
• Translation Support: Review and proofread translations of area-specific security documents as required.

Note: The specific duties and responsibilities may vary and be adjusted based on the directives and priorities given by the line management.

Training & Orientations:

• Briefings and Training Delivery: Deliver comprehensive Security and Safety briefings to MCUA staff and visitors, ensuring they are well-informed and prepared for potential risks.
• Training Organization: Organize Security and Safety training sessions for MCUA staff in alignment with the Training Program, ensuring that staff receive the necessary knowledge and skills to mitigate risks.
• In-house Training: Conduct in-house training and awareness sessions for MCUA staff as required, addressing specific security and safety topics in accordance with the Training Program.
• External Training Providers: Identify external providers offering Security and Safety-related training within the area of responsibility, and collaborate with them when necessary to supplement internal training efforts.
• Training Program Improvement: Regularly review the Training Program and propose necessary changes and enhancements based on evolving security and safety requirements.
• Contextual Updates: Communicate sudden changes in the security context to staff within the area of responsibility, following established MCUA procedures to ensure timely and effective dissemination of information.

Note: The specific duties and responsibilities may vary based on the evolving security and safety needs of the MCUA operations.

Liaison with local stakeholders

1. Collaboration with Other Organizations:

• Establish and foster effective communication channels with security personnel from other INGOs and NGOs operating in the same area of responsibility, promoting information sharing and mutual support.
• Build and maintain a network of contacts to enhance awareness of security practices employed by other organizations, facilitating collaboration and shared learning.

1. Engagement with Military and Law Enforcement:

• Engage with military and law enforcement representatives during field trips to ensure MCUA’s access to relevant areas of operation, facilitating smooth coordination and cooperation.
• Maintain regular communication with these stakeholders to stay updated on the local security environment and leverage their support when necessary.

1. Interagency Coordination:

• Actively participate in relevant interagency and security coordination mechanisms within the area of responsibility, such as INGO and other interagency security coordination meetings.
• Ensure MCUA’s active engagement and contribution to discussions, sharing relevant information and perspectives to enhance overall security coordination efforts.

1. Representation and External Engagement:

• Serve as the representative of Mercy Corps at external security meetings, representing the organization’s interests and advocating for effective security measures.
• Articulate Mercy Corps’ security concerns, priorities, and contributions, fostering collaborative relationships with external stakeholders and promoting a positive image of the organization.

Note: The specific tasks and engagements may vary based on the local context and the evolving security landscape in the area of responsibility.

Staff movement security

• Approve staff movement in accordance with the MCUA established procedures.
• Track staff movement in the area of responsibility in accordance with the MCUA established procedures.
• Work with operations, and program teams to track staff location and account for staff in the area of responsibility.
• Report violations of security and safety procedures and rules by the MCUA staff or visitors.

Report and manage incidents:

• Serve as the primary focal point for incident reporting in the area of responsibility.
• Ensure all security and safety incidents have been filed and reported.

Office Safety/Security Equipment Management:

• Responsible for ordering, tracking, checking, and issuing security equipment, including regular quality and maintenance checks.
• Perform regular assessments of the MCUA premises, including the office, guest house, and other areas, and identify necessary safety measures.
• Ensure appropriate access control to the MCUA premises.
• Conduct basic office safety drills as required by minimum standards.
• Originate procurement of security equipment in accordance with MCUA standards.

1. Collaborative Teamwork:

• Actively participate in weekly team meetings, sharing best practices, lessons learned, and identifying departmental needs for continuous improvement.
• Support and provide coverage for other members of the Security Team when assigned by the line management.
• Foster a collaborative environment by actively engaging with team members and promoting a culture of knowledge sharing.

1. Nationwide Assignments:

• Execute assigned duties and responsibilities throughout the country as directed by the line management, ensuring effective coordination with relevant stakeholders.
• Adhere to the established protocols and guidelines while carrying out tasks, maintaining a high level of professionalism and accountability.

1. Coordination and Reporting:

• Collaborate closely with the Senior Safety & Security Officer, Security Manager, and Director of Security & Humanitarian Access as necessary, ensuring regular reporting, seeking approvals, and obtaining guidance for specific tasks.
• Maintain open lines of communication, promptly sharing relevant information, and seeking guidance on security-related matters.

1. Professional Development:

• Take proactive initiatives to enhance personal professional growth and competence, identifying and pursuing opportunities for improvement.
• Discuss personal improvement plans with the Line Manager, seeking guidance and support for achieving professional development goals.

Please note that specific assignments, tasks, and reporting structures may vary based on the organization’s requirements and the evolving security context in Ukraine.

Accountabilities:

Mercy Corps team members are expected to support all efforts towards accountability, specifically to our beneficiaries and to international standards guiding international relief and development work. This includes actively engaging beneficiary communities as equal partners in the design, monitoring, and evaluation of our field projects.

Supervisory Responsibility: None

• Reports Directly To:The country Senior safety and Security Officer
  Works Directly With: Operations team, the Senior Management Team – Program Departments, IT/Information, Senior Safety/Security Officer, Security and Safety Manager, People’s Team
  Accountability: Accountable to Mercy Corps Procurement Policy and Procedures. Maintains accurate electronic and hardcopy files of procurement file and other relevant files.

Professional and Approachable Demeanour:

• Demonstrates professionalism and approachability in all interactions with colleagues, stakeholders, and beneficiaries.
• Problem-solving and Bureaucratic Skills: Possesses strong problem-solving abilities to navigate bureaucratic hurdles and facilitate program activities for Mercy Corps throughout the region.
• Ability to Work Under Pressure: Thrives in high-pressure situations, effectively managing tasks and meeting tight deadlines.
• Diplomatic Approach: Adheres to Mercy Corps protocols on representation and reporting, demonstrating diplomacy in all interactions.
• Fluency in Ukrainian and English: Required fluency in both Ukrainian and English languages for effective communication.
• Independence and Initiative: Capable of working independently, taking initiative, and demonstrating proactive behaviour.
• Good Organizational Skills: Exhibits excellent organizational skills, ensuring efficient management of tasks and responsibilities.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Works effectively with an ethnically diverse team in a sensitive environment, demonstrating cultural sensitivity and inclusivity.
• Teamwork and Leadership: Demonstrates the ability to work collaboratively within a team while respectfully following instructions from leadership.

Success Factors

• Trustworthy and Professional Demeanor: Demonstrates professionalism, confidentiality, and non-judgmental behavior, earning the trust of the entire team.
• Understanding of Programming Modalities: Possesses a solid understanding of programming modalities and priorities, aligning security and safety practices accordingly.
• Effective Team Player: Collaborates closely with various departments, fostering a spirit of teamwork and cooperation.
• Strong Decision-making Skills: Capable of efficiently and effectively managing the decision-making process, ensuring timely and informed decisions.
• Adaptability in Rapidly Changing Contexts: Demonstrates flexibility and adaptability in rapidly evolving situations, playing a key role in the Security Risk Assessment process.
• Curiosity and Program Alignment: Values curiosity and shows genuine interest in understanding program objectives beyond military or law enforcement experience.
• Commitment to Humanitarian Principles: Possesses a solid understanding of humanitarian principles and demonstrates a strong commitment to following them.
• Effective Communication Skills: Demonstrates excellent written and verbal communication skills, conveying information clearly and concisely.
• Analytical Thinking: Exhibits strong analytical thinking skills, assessing complex situations, identifying risks, and proposing effective solutions.
• Conflict Management: Possesses strong conflict management and resolution skills, promoting a peaceful and collaborative work environment.
• Cultural Competence: Demonstrates cultural competence and sensitivity, working effectively with diverse teams and local communities.
• Resilience and Stress Management: Displays resilience in challenging and high-pressure environments, effectively managing stress and maintaining a positive mindset.
• Knowledge of Security and Safety Protocols: Has a solid understanding of security and safety protocols, including risk assessment, emergency response, and incident management.
• Technical Skills: Possesses relevant technical skills and knowledge in areas such as security systems, communications equipment, or information management.
• Problem-solving and Decision-making: Demonstrates strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities, considering available information and potential consequences. 

Living Conditions / Environmental Conditions

The position is based in Kyiv, Ukraine. Staff will have access to all basic amenities. Given the emergency context, this position requires exceptional work schedules, including evenings and weekends.

Ongoing Learning

In support of our belief that learning organizations are more effective, efficient and relevant to the communities we serve, we empower all team members to dedicate 5% of their time to learning activities that further their personal and/or professional growth and development.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Achieving our mission begins with how we build our team and work together. Through our commitment to enriching our organization with people of different origins, beliefs, backgrounds, and ways of thinking, we are better able to leverage the collective power of our teams and solve the world’s most complex challenges. We strive for a culture of trust and respect, where everyone contributes their perspectives and authentic selves, reaches their potential as individuals and teams, and collaborates to do the best work of their lives.

We recognize that diversity and inclusion is a journey, and we are committed to learning, listening and evolving to become more diverse, equitable and inclusive than we are today. 

Equal Employment Opportunity

Mercy Corps is an equal opportunity employer that does not tolerate discrimination on any basis. We actively seek out diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and skills so that we can be collectively stronger and have sustained global impact.

We are committed to providing an environment of respect and psychological safety where equal employment opportunities are available to all. We do not engage in or tolerate discrimination on the basis of race, color, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin, disability (including HIV/AIDS status), marital status, military veteran status or any other protected group in the locations where we work.

Safeguarding & Ethics

Mercy Corps is committed to ensuring that all individuals we come into contact with through our work, whether team members, community members, program participants or others, are treated with respect and dignity. We are committed to the core principles regarding prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse laid out by the UN Secretary General and IASC and have signed on to the Interagency Misconduct Disclosure Scheme. We will not tolerate child abuse, sexual exploitation, abuse, or harassment by or of our team members. As part of our commitment to a safe and inclusive work environment, team members are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner, respect local laws and customs, and to adhere to Mercy Corps Code of Conduct Policies and values at all times. Team members are required to complete mandatory Code of Conduct e-learning courses upon hire and on an annual basis.

Benefits

Mercy Corps is offering competitive 25 Benefits Packages (10 law statutory and 15 market competitive), including but not limited to the relocation, transportation, phone allowances, remote and flexible working modality, duty of care, well-being support, 24/7 free resilience consultations in addition to a salary offer. Team positive working environment in a well-established and growing international humanitarian organization with career development opportunities through our global talent development platform.