Security Specialist

Job Vacancy | Thursday, May 21, 2026

Join Our Mission to Foster Prosperity in Asia
Are you ready to make a difference in the future of Asia and be a catalyst for positive change? We are thrilled to offer a unique opportunity to become an important part of the prestigious Asian Development Bank (ADB). At ADB, our mission is simple yet powerful: to alleviate poverty and promote sustainable development in the Asia-Pacific region.


Organizational Setting and Reporting Relationship
The position of Security Specialist is assigned to the Organizational Resilience and Security Division (CSRS) within the Corporate Services Department. You will be outposted to Afghanistan Resident Mission (AFRM) in Kabul for an initial assignment of three years. After this period, subject to business needs, the role may be assigned at our Headquarters in Manila, Philippines or at another resident mission office. Relocation is required. All reasonable relocation expenses will be covered.

You will report to Director, CSRS on technical, policy-related, and operational matters and Country Director, AFRM for daily administrative matters, and will oversee junior team members.


Your Role
As a Security Specialist outposted to AFRM, you will coordinate on a full-time basis all security-related requirements for the ADB's staff, facilities, and operations in Afghanistan. You will provide advice, guidance, and training to ensure security at AFRM is maintained at an appropriate level and respond to emergency situations and extend assistance to mission travelers and staff members. You will coordinate with national and international security and emergency agencies for preparation and response to security situations and provide support and coordinate with the CSD to address ADB's overall institutional security requirements outside of Afghanistan.


You will:

• Analyze the political and security situation in Afghanistan and neighboring countries to identify and assess potential threats to AFRM and ADB Afghanistan operations.
• Develop, institute, and manage appropriate safety and security policies, programs, and procedures at AFRM to provide full security oversight and support to staff and operations.
• Collaborate with the United Nations Security Management System (UNSMS) personnel to ensure compliance and accountability following the terms of the Memorandum of Understanding regarding the coordination of security arrangements between the ADB and the United Nations.
• Oversee security arrangements for visiting missions at AFRM and in the field, communicate security and safety information to personnel, provide security and emergency training, and conduct drills for ADB personnel.
• Review and help develop plans and other security arrangements related to ADB operations in Afghanistan in cooperation with the government and development partners. Collaboration will also involve senior personnel and officials of security and emergency agencies of the host government, private security firms, UNSMS personnel, and other international organizations.
• Provide advice and responses to emergency security threat situations. Manage actions to provide continuing review and contingency planning to help AFRM operations in the event of hazards, civil disorder, conflict, or terrorism.
• Manage deployment and operational procedures for the AFRM guard forces including private/contracted guards and government supplied guards.
• Enhance the AFRM's physical security, surveillance, and deterrence measures, provide recommendations for implementing security plans for ADB funded project contractors and consulting firms, and prepare security risk assessments.
• In keeping with the Country Partnership Strategy (CPS), and in close collaboration with AFRM Sector Heads, implement and maintain security as a safeguard throughout the ADB project cycle.
• Maintain a database of all ADB-funded projects in Afghanistan, including relevant project security information. Design a standardized format for reporting this information and develop a tool for ADB-funded security geo-mapping.
• Provide leadership and support to reporting staff by supervising their performance, offering clear direction, regular monitoring, feedback, and ensuring their ongoing learning and development.
• Perform other duties as may be assigned and reflected in your work plan.

Qualifications

You will need:

• A University degree in security management, international relations, political science, international law or related fields; preferably at post-graduate level or its equivalent.
• At least 6 years of relevant experience managing security programs and liaison with military or police authorities in a government organization, international institution, corporation, or other relevant organization.
• International experience working in several countries with a focus on Fragile and Conflict-Affected Situations and Small Islands Developing States is advantageous.
• Demonstrated experience and exposure to the international security arena dealing with safety and security issues.
• Experience with international security structures and practices with an understanding of the UN and other international organization security structures is desirable.
• Understanding physical, technical, and information security best practices.
• Demonstrated high-level understanding and implementation of security risk management principles.
• Experience with political systems/government administration.
• Experience collaborating with staff, management, staff of other local and international organizations, and senior government officials.
• Demonstrated cultural sensitivity and capability to create harmony within a multicultural organizational work environment, even in high-pressure conditions.
• Emotional insight to comprehend and manage the impact and sensitivity of security and safety issues.
• Excellent command of verbal and written communication skills in English.
• Please refer to the link for ADB Competency Framework for Technical International level 1.

Benefits
ADB offers a rewarding salary and a comprehensive benefits package. The salary will be based on ADB's standards and comparator markets, taking into account your qualifications and experience.

• Housing and education allowance (if applicable)
• Expatriate benefits (if applicable)
• Relocation (if applicable)
• Retirement plan
• Medical and health benefits
• Paid leave (including parental)
• Life and other insurance plans
• Staff development

Additional Information
This appointment is open to internal and external applicants.

This is a fixed-term appointment with option to renew, initially for a period of up to 3 years, or up to the Normal Retirement Date (NRD), whichever comes earlier, for the purpose(s) and conditions determined by ADB, in accordance with Administrative Order No. 2.01 (Recruitment and Appointment). After the initial fixed-term period, ADB may choose to renew the appointment for up to an additional 3 years or not renewed. This decision will be made in the overall interest of ADB, based on factors including but not limited to the requirement of Staff's particular blend of skills and experience for the medium-term work program of the organizational unit, sufficient funding to cover the renewed period, and Staff's performance and suitability for employment. There is no limit to the number of renewals up to NRD. However, this appointment is not convertible to a regular appointment.


About Us
ADB is a leading multilateral development bank supporting inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth across Asia and the Pacific. Working with its members and partners to solve complex challenges together, ADB harnesses innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives, build quality infrastructure, and safeguard our planet. Founded in 1966, ADB is headquartered in Manila and owned by 69 members—50 from the region.

ADB only hires nationals of its 69 members.

To view ADB Organizational Chart, please click here.

ADB wants to ensure that everyone is treated with respect and given equal opportunities to work in an inclusive environment. ADB encourages all qualified candidates to apply regardless of their racial, ethnic, religious and cultural background, gender, sexual orientation or disabilities. Women are highly encouraged to apply.

Visit ADB Careers FAQ for more information.

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