Overview
The Chief Security Officer (CSO) is responsible for undertaking all security management functions for UNSOH, ensuring the safety and security of personnel while enabling effective operations. The role serves as the principal security advisor to the Head of UNSOH.
Key Responsibilities
- Undertake all security management functions for UNSOH.
- Execute security responsibilities to enable/facilitate the delivery of UNSOH mandate.
- Ensure the safety and security of UNSOH personnel.
- Prepare budget for the security component of the Mission's budget estimates.
- Recruit, deploy, and manage performance of Mission security personnel.
- Identify training and associated budget requirements for the Mission’s safety and security workforce.
- Serve as primary security adviser on all aspects of safety and security management.
- Apply United Nations Security Management System policies to the Mission.
- Supervise all units within the Security Section.
- Participate in the Security Coordination Cell.
- Assist with country-specific threat and risk assessment processes.
- Oversee the collection, interpretation and analysis of security information.
- Ensure security considerations are integrated into mission country level programmes and operational planning.
- Establish and coordinate an efficient UNSOH 24-hour Emergency Response System.
- Coordinate field missions with UN agencies operating in the area of responsibility.
- Monitor and evaluate office physical security measures.
- Conduct security surveys of UNSOH installations and facilities.
- Coordinate the implementation of security arrangements by the guard force management.
- Responsible for security assessments and measures related to UNSOH premises and residences.
- Develop and implement Residential Security Measures.
- Foster awareness and compliance with security requirements, standards, and procedures.
- Oversee adherence to security policies and procedures.
- Prepare, maintain and update country-specific security and contingency plans.
- Supervise compliance and implementation of security standards.
- Establish and maintain dialogue with UN focal points, local authorities and international organizations.
- Coordinate response to emergency and crisis situations.
- Oversee the establishment of 24-hour response mechanisms to security-related incidents.
- Oversee establishment/maintenance of fully functional emergency communications system.
- Maintain liaison with various mission components and specialized UN agencies, international organizations, relevant government agencies, as well as embassies and NGOs.
- Establish and maintain contacts with national security agencies.
- Ensure the PSA is kept regularly updated on security developments.
- Complete required reporting in a timely and efficient manner.
- Conduct direct investigations related to the death of a staff member or family member under suspicious or unclear circumstances.
- Direct an in-country security training programme.
- Support UNSOH VIP visits and delegations.
- Obtain, study and implement all security policy promulgated by the Inter-Agency Security Management Network.
- Undertake any other duties as may be assigned by the UNSOH Head of Mission.
Required Experience
A minimum of ten (10) years of relevant professional experience, at least 5 years of which should be in command or leadership position, with proven experience in managing crisis situations, is required. Minimum of 5 years’ experience in the United Nations security management system and at least 3 years of experience serving in a special political mission and/or peacekeeping mission is required. Comprehensive knowledge of UN policies, procedures and operations relating to security is required. Management of security units and staffing in a multi-cultural, integrated mission and conflict or post-conflict environment; security planning, management of security operations and security risk assessments; development of standard operating procedures; conduct of physical security assessments; coordination with local authorities and law enforcement agencies; development/management of emergency communication systems; crisis management, hostage incident management, security administration, and logistics for security in a conflict or post-conflict environment, is desirable.
Qualifications
Advanced University degree (Master’s Degree or equivalent) preferably in political/social science, international relations, law enforcement and/or business management (with a focus on security management). A first level University degree with a relevant combination of academic qualifications and two additional years of qualifying experience in a related area may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree. Graduates of Police/Military War Colleges and Senior Staff Colleges may also be considered.
