Organizational Profile
Founded in 1991, Secours Islamique France (SIF) is an international NGO that has worked in France and around the world for over 30 years. SIF acts wherever there are humanitarian and social needs by delivering emergency relief, development programs and advocacy campaigns without proselytism or discrimination. The SIF Kenya and Somalia Mission was registered in 2012 and implements humanitarian and development programs in Education and Child Welfare, Food Security and Livelihoods, and Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) interventions to support vulnerable communities.
Position Overview
SIF is seeking a qualified and experienced Security & Safety Officer to be based in Kismayo, Somalia with the responsibility of security and safety management of SIF operations in Somalia and Kenya. Reporting to the Head of Mission, the successful candidate will lead security risk assessments, humanitarian access initiatives, security planning, incident and crisis management, and staff capacity building. The position holder will ensure compliance with SIF security policies and promote a strong security culture across all operational locations.
Key Responsibilities
- Build relationships with local authorities, community leaders, and humanitarian stakeholders to facilitate safe access.
- Conduct security risk assessments, context analysis, and threat monitoring across Somalia and Kenya.
- Develop, implement, and update security management plans, SOPs, contingency plans, and evacuation procedures.
- Coordinate and monitor staff movements, ensuring compliance with security procedures.
- Provide security briefings, inductions, and training for all staff.
- Manage security incidents, support crisis response, and prepare regular security and safety reports.
- Monitor compliance with security standards and maintain accurate security records.
- Work closely with the Head of Mission and other departments in ensuring accountability for security protocols and that breachers are addressed appropriately.
- Supervise security guards or security vendors where required and work closely with the Head of Mission and relevant departments.
- Comply on SIF global and Mission level policies and procedures.
- The responsibilities outlined above are not exhaustive and may evolve according to the Mission’s operational needs. As a result, the employee may be assigned other duties consistent with their qualifications and experience and a requirement to work outside normal working hours or days during exceptional circumstances or operational demands in accordance with applicable labor laws and organizational policies.
Qualifications and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Security Management, International Relations, Political Science, or a related field.
- At least 5 years of relevant security management experience, preferably with an NGO or humanitarian organization.
- Strong knowledge of the political, cultural, and security contexts of Somalia and Kenya.
- Proven experience in high-risk or conflict-affected environments, risk assessment, and humanitarian access.
- Excellent written and spoken English.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and familiarity with digital mapping and security reporting tools.
Required Competencies
- Strong analytical, communication, negotiation, and decision-making skills.
- Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing security environments.
- High standards of integrity, confidentiality, and professionalism.
- Commitment to humanitarian principles, gender equality, safeguarding, and accountability.
Dislcaimer: The recruitment process and hiring to this position are subject to confirmation of required funding.
Do No Harm Principle
Secours Islamique France considers diversity a strength. We therefore review all applications, provided they demonstrate the skills required for the position to be filled. As a humanitarian NGO, SIF is committed to respecting the humanitarian principle of “Do No Harm” and ensures that the safety of our beneficiaries (including children), employees, volunteers, partners, and service providers is a primary consideration in all its activities. SIF maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward any form of fraud, corruption, psychological/sexual harassment, abuse or violence of any kind, and, more broadly, any breach of legislation, regulations, the Child Safeguarding Policy (CSP), or the internal code of conduct, both at headquarters and in the field. In line with these principles, this position is subject to a criminal record check as well as professional reference checks. Our charter is a genuine commitment: we mobilize all of our staff to promote, share, and uphold the principles set out. Together, let’s rise to the challenge for solidarity that transcends differences.”
How to apply
To apply for this position, applicants are required to submit their cover letter and resume as one single PDF document quoting “Application for Security & Safety Officer – Kismayo” in the subject line to: apply.ken@sif.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and interested candidates are encouraged to apply immediately. Only shortlisted and qualified candidates will be contacted. SIF is an equal opportunity employer.