The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, with a network of 191-member National Societies (NSs). The overall aim of IFRC is “to inspire, encourage, facilitate, and promote at all times all forms of humanitarian activities by NSs with a view to preventing and alleviating human suffering and thereby contributing to the maintenance and promotion of human dignity and peace in the world.” IFRC works to meet the needs and improve the lives of vulnerable people before, during and after disasters, health emergencies and other crises.

IFRC is part of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement (Movement), together with its member National Societies and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). The work of IFRC is guided by the following fundamental principles: humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality.

IFRC is led by its Secretary General, and has its Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. The Headquarters are organized into three main Divisions: (i) National Society Development and Operations Coordination; (ii) Global Relations, Humanitarian Diplomacy and Digitalization; and (iii) Management Policy, Strategy and Corporate Services.

IFRC has five regional offices in Africa, Asia Pacific, Middle East and North Africa, Europe, and the Americas. IFRC also has country cluster delegations and country delegations throughout the world. Together, the Geneva Headquarters and the field structure (regional, cluster and country) comprise the IFRC Secretariat.

IFRC has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment and other forms of harassment, abuse of authority, discrimination, and lack of integrity (including but not limited to financial misconduct). IFRC also adheres to strict child safeguarding principles.

The main role of the Senior Security Officer is to support and advise the Head of Country Delegation (HoCD) in matters pertaining to security in Syria, in order to ensure that an effective security framework is established and that IFRC personnel are able to operate in as safe an environment as possible. 

The Senior Security Officer will facilitate the process of ensuring that all relevant security documents and procedures have been established within the delegation in accordance with the Federation’s Minimum-Security Requirements (MSR’s). He/she will assist with obtaining information, analysis and composing of documents.

The Senior Security Officer will work closely and coordinate with the Syrian Arab Red Crescent (SARC) Security Focal Point and ICRC Security Focal Points.

The Senior Security Officer will coordinate closely with, and seek advice and support from, the MENA Regional Security Coordinator as the technical manager. The Global Security Unit in Geneva and will provide further support to the Senior Security Officer as needed or when requested.

Security Framework & Compliance

• Lead the implementation of IFRC Minimum Security Requirements (MSR) and maintain a robust security framework for Syria operations.
• Develop and regularly update security policies, contingency plans (relocation, hibernation, MedEvac), and protocols based on risk assessments.
• Conduct security assessments for offices, residences, warehouses, and operational sites, producing actionable reports.
• Drive the MSR self-assessment process and ensure timely corrective actions.
• Lead the Country Business Continuity Plan (BCP) and contribute to the Regional BCP.

Security Information & Analysis

• Monitor and analyze security and political developments in Syria and the region, assessing potential impact on IFRC operations.
• Build and maintain a strong security information network with SARC, ICRC, local authorities, and humanitarian actors.
• Represent IFRC in security coordination platforms (e.g., UN, INSO) and ensure IFRC priorities are reflected.
• Provide timely, insightful security reporting, including weekly summaries, monthly analytical updates, and event-specific risk assessments.

Incident Management & Learning

• Issue security alerts and advisories promptly through SMS, WhatsApp, and email.
• Provide immediate guidance and assistance during incidents, activating contingency measures when required.
• Ensure timely and accurate incident reporting to the Regional Security Coordinator and Global Security Unit.
• Conduct post-incident reviews, identify lessons learned, and update security plans accordingly.

Movement Risk Management

• Review and approve Mission Orders based on current security assessments.
• Coordinate and monitor all field and cross-border movements (including Lebanon and Jordan) in close collaboration with SARC security focal points.
• Ensure vehicles and staff are equipped with reliable communication tools (satellite phones, VHF radios) and oversee connectivity between IFRC offices and partners.

Security Briefings & Capacity Building

• Prepare and deliver security briefings for all staff and visitors within 48 hours of arrival, covering context, emergency contacts, and protocols.
• Provide ongoing updates during delegation meetings and design security training sessions (e.g., fire safety, VHF radio use).
• Promote a culture of security awareness and continuous learning within the delegation.

Office & Logistical Security

• Oversee physical security measures, including CCTV systems, guard performance, and fire safety equipment.
• Ensure hibernation kits and protective visibility items are available and maintained.
• Verify that IFRC vehicles are properly equipped and clearly marked for identification and safety.

Collaboration & Representation

• Maintain close coordination with the Regional Security Coordinator to align country-level security strategies with regional priorities.
• Share timely updates, risk assessments, and lessons learned to strengthen regional security planning and response.
• Uphold Movement principles of Neutrality, Acceptance, and Impartiality in all security-related activities.

• Bachelor’s degree in a field related to Security Management or equivalent experience in a related field - required
• Certified in basic life support, preferably on paramedic level - required

Required

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in related security work
• Field experience in humanitarian work, preferably in the region

Preferred

• Experience in proposal and report writing
• representation and negotiation skills in working with different stakeholders, partner agencies (NGO) and coordinating activities in a challenging setup
• Working knowledge and experience of humanitarian principles, law and standards

Required

• Self-supporting in computers (Windows, spreadsheets, Word, etc)
• Good Reporting Skills
• Delivering Training techniques
• Advanced level of understanding of various communications technologies, including VHF and HF radio systems, satellite phones, cell phones, etc.
• Additional practical knowledge of tools and mechanisms and procedures for personal and organizational security in relevant specialist areas such as security in the field, security communications, physical security, critical incident management, occupational safety and security training
• Direct personal experience of working successfully in hostile environments or under difficult operational circumstances
• Excellent planning, coordination, and reporting skills, with the ability to organise a substantial workload comprised of complex, diverse tasks and responsibilities
• Full adherence to security protocols Sensitivity and respect for diversity
• Staff development and capacity building
• Valid Driver’s license (public driving license is preferred)
• Fluently spoken and written Arabic and English

• Values: Respect for diversity; Integrity; Professionalism; Accountability
• Core competencies: Communication; Collaboration and teamwork; Judgement and decision making; National society and customer relations; Creativity and innovation; Building trust