Principal Adviser (Security Coordination), D-1, Office of Emergency Programmes (EMOPS), New York, USA

New York City

Organization: UNICEF - United Nations Children’s Fund
Location: New York City
Grade: Senior Executive level - D-1, Director - Internationally recruited position
Occupational Groups:
- Medical Practitioners
- Humanitarian Aid and Coordination
- Security and Safety
- Emergency Aid and Response
- Security
- Senior Leadership Vacancies
- Managerial positions
Closing Date: Closed

Under the general guidance of the Director of Office of Emergency Programmes (EMOPS), and as the UNICEF Senior Security Manager and Security Focal Point, the Principal Adviser (Security Coordination) advises the Executive Director and Senior Management on all security related issues, leads on the review and development of security related policy and strategy for the organization, and co-ordinates UNICEF’s global field security posture and the activities of all UNICEF Security Officers. The incumbent provides advice and guidance to Executive and Senior Management on all aspects related to the safety and security of UNICEF staff and assets. Staff member is also responsible for advising senior management, allowing for the maintenance of UNICEF operations during crisis and/or high risk environments, set against potential evacuation or suspension of activities. The incumbent also liaises with United Nations Department of Safety & Security (UNDSS) and sister UN agencies on all such issues and represents UNICEF on inter-agency crisis management teams and security task forces. The Principal Adviser is also responsible for the guidance and oversight of the EMOPS Operations Centre.

UNICEF works in 190 countries and territories to protect the rights of every child. UNICEF has spent 70 years working to improve the lives of children and their families. Defending children's rights throughout their lives requires a global presence, aiming to produce results and understand their effects. UNICEF believes all children have a right to survive, thrive and fulfill their potential – to the benefit of a better world.

For every child, dedication...

How can you make a difference?

The Principal Adviser’s key functions and accountabilities include (but not limited to):

Security Policy Development - Advise the Executive Director and Senior Management on all security related issues. Review and develop security related policies and strategies, and make recommendations to both UNICEF senior management and UN Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS) accordingly.
Direct Security and Crisis Management – Direct the regular and systematic monitoring of crisis and security procedures by UNICEF field offices, ensuring the provision of advice and counsel. Interact with and provide support to, UNICEF Representatives and/or the UN system to detect evolving security situations and undertake appropriate preventative measures.
Field Visits - Regularly visit field offices to monitor and advise on UNICEF compliance with security policies and procedures, to assess UNICEF vulnerability and security preparedness, including security plans, systems and procedures, as well as inter-agency security arrangements and implications thereof.
Expanding Cooperation – Develop strategies and undertakes a senior advisory role in the process to maintain security and institutionalize cooperation with other UN/IO/NGO/government entities that face similar field situations or share common interest in early warning, safety and security of field staff, and effective security risk management.
Information management/Early warning for crisis management – Direct OPSCEN support to UNICEF field offices including production of information reports to inform decision making in all instances, and provide sustained support of country offices that are at risk. Prepare and oversee the preparation of, analytical reports for UNICEF senior management on the overall security situation in regions where there is UNICEF presence, and countries facing emergencies or in crisis.

To qualify as a champion for every child you will have…

An Advanced University Degree in law enforcement, security or crisis management or related diploma from Command level attendance at National/International Police/Military College or Academy, or an additional two years of relevant experience.
A minimum of twenty years of progressively responsible experience in the field of military/law enforcement, security and international affairs; particularly extensive experience (at least fifteen years) internationally is a strong asset.
Substantial relevant practical experience in security and risk management or law enforcement required, preferably with a portion in the international context.
Knowledge of the political, social and economic situations of countries in crisis. Demonstrated skill in writing, analytical thinking, and public speaking in the fields of security risk and crisis management.
Experience in the conduct of humanitarian or development operations in the field.
Proficiency in IT and Communications systems required.
Proven ability to prepare high quality reports, assessments and briefing notes in a clear, concise and compelling format; and communicate orally in an effective manner to audiences at all levels internally and externally.
Leadership, critical decision making, managing decisions, communication, teamwork, planning and organizing, creativity and innovation, client orientation, technological awareness, and ability to work effectively in a multicultural and gender sensitive environment.
Building trust, judgement/decision making, leadership, integrity, managing performance, gender and cultural sensitivity.
Oral and written proficiency in English is required. Knowledge of another official UN language, preferably French or Arabic, is an asset.

Person Profile:

Familiarity with UN system and ability to effectively advise and apply UN security management policies and procedures.
Capacity to work with professionals at all levels within and outside UNICEF, often in high stress environments, and have proven ability to remain calm, professionally direct and manage crisis situations, while exercising discretion.
With a superior level of inter-personal and leadership skills, the candidate will be an innovator, striving for improvement and be proactive in developing strategies to accomplish organisational goals and objectives.
Strong ability to advise and guide senior managers (country, regional and headquarters), and to mentor and promote the professional development of the security team in UNICEF globally.

For every child, you demonstrate…

Core Values