Security Assistant, Lebanon Delegation

Organizational Context

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.

Job Purpose

The main role of the Security Assistant is to support the Head of Delegation (HoD) in matters pertaining to security in Lebanon, 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 Security Assistant 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 Security Assistant will work closely and coordinate with LRCS SSU and ICRC security focal points and will seek advice and support from the Security Unit in Geneva when needed. 

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Stay up to date with IFRC security resources, including e-learning courses, security handbooks, and the “Hotspots” newsletter.
• Support in promoting, training, and monitoring staff based in Lebanon (IFRC Regional Office, IFRC Country Delegation, and Integrated PNSs) on the Country’s Minimum Standards in Safety and Security.
• Assist in ensuring staff and visitors adhere to security protocols and are informed of any changes in the security environment through Security Alerts (SMS/WhatsApp, email) and Security Advisories.
• Support to the Security Framework.
• Assist the HoD in ensuring compliance with the International Federation’s Minimum-Security Requirements (MSR).
• Maintain knowledge of the security situation in Lebanon and provide input on security risks and mitigation measures.
• Support the use and updating of the MSR Self-Assessment to ensure compliance.
• Help maintain and update security documents, including security regulations, relocation plans, and MedEvac plans, in line with risk assessments.
• Assist in reviewing and updating security documents every 6 months.
• Support security assessments of offices, residences, and other sites, and assist in maintaining updated contact lists of staff.

Security Information and Network Support

• Assist in liaising with LRCS SSU, ICRC, local authorities, and humanitarian actors regarding security matters.
• Help monitor security developments that may affect IFRC activities in Lebanon and share relevant information with the HoD and Director of MENA Region.
• Assist in disseminating security updates and relevant information within the Country Office and Integrated Partner National Societies.

Briefing and Reporting

• Assist in preparing security briefings for new delegates, staff, and visitors.
• Help provide verbal security briefings within 48 hours of arrival in-country.
• Support the HoD in briefing the delegation on new security developments during meetings.
• Assist in drafting security updates, revising security documents, and preparing situation reports as requested by the HoD.

Job Duties and Responsibilities (continued)

Field Travel and Incident Management

• Support the processing of field travel requests in coordination with LRCS SSU.
• Assist in maintaining communication with LRCS SSU to ensure field movements are monitored and that vehicles and staff are equipped with proper communication devices.
• Help report security incidents, advise on necessary actions, and assist in incident reporting to the Regional Security
• Assist in reviewing security incidents for lessons learned and updating security documents accordingly.

General Security Support

• Assist the HoD in ensuring that security considerations are integrated into program planning.
• Support in maintaining security awareness within the delegation and report any breaches of security regulations.
• Execute other security-related tasks as assigned by the HoD, including research and analysis of security-related information for weekly security updates.

Education

• 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. Preferred

Experience

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

Knowledge, Skills and Languages

• Self-supporting in computers (Windows, spreadsheets, Word, etc). Required
• Advanced level of understanding of various communications technologies, including VHF and HF radio systems, satellite phones, cell phones, etc. Required
• 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. Required
• Direct personal experience of working successfully in hostile environments or under difficult operational circumstances. Required
• Excellent planning, coordination, and reporting skills, with the ability to organise a substantial workload comprised of complex, diverse tasks and responsibilities. Required
• Full adherence to security protocols Sensitivity and respect for diversity. Required
• Staff development and capacity building. Preferred
• Valid Driver’s license. Required
• Fluent spoken and written English and Arabic. Required

Competencies, Values and Comments

• Values: Respect for diversity; Integrity; Professionalism; Accountability

IFRC ensures equal employment opportunities!