Serve as the Global Security (GS) liaison and “tip of the spear” in engaging regional office country directors and staff in South Africa, Nigeria, and Ethiopia and in support of foundation activity throughout the continent. Provide direct operational/physical security oversight and management for the three Africa regional offices. Responsible for researching and analyzing country data to produce comprehensive geopolitical assessments for consumers regarding risk issues specific to the countries, regions, and cities where the foundation operates. Responsible for identifying opportunities to enhance and improve team strategies and processes through various tasks. Establish and implement processes, policies and protocols for an effective security management system in foundation locations.
- Act as the GS liaison with regional office country directors, staff, and other affiliated personnel to implement, adjust, and enforce appropriate security measures.
- Oversee security operations for the three Africa regional offices, to include management of contract security staff supporting the Nigeria Country Office. Manage and control the quality of the security programs and contracted vendors within a regional area of responsibility. This includes regular site visits to ensure timely and adequate:
- Site security plans
- Conduct threat, vulnerability and risk assessments
- Training awareness programs (Incident Management/Regional Office contingency planning, Traveler Awareness, Personal Security Awareness)
- Security support to Foundation-sponsored events and activities
- Provide credible information and contextual analysis of localized and regional security situations and incidents, along with appropriate advice to GS managers.
- Liaise with government, consular and private sector agencies within the foundation’s regional office locations and continent-wide.
- Maintain an effective security network at regional office locations, with both internal and external partners.
- Demonstrate a problem-solving approach to preserving the foundation infrastructure at all regional office locations and make recommendations to support the strategic aims and objectives of those policies and programs.
- Be a team player, taking ownership and responsibility for addressing the full range of GS responsibilities as best you can in your role.
- Demonstrated capability for regional/country risk assessment and reporting as well as operational security experience, including with corporate security entities and/or formal federal government-level service with diplomatic, law enforcement and/or intelligence agencies.
- Experience working internationally in multiple settings (office & field), understanding varying global perspectives and culture. Knowledge of/experience in Africa preferred.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills; including research, monitoring and information collection and reporting.
- High level of interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills.
- Must have a proven track record of working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment, requiring a high level of attention to detail while maintaining focus on the big picture.
- The ability to work independently and make sound decisions to maintain organizational objectives.
- Strong ability to network effectively at all organizational levels.
- Excellent ability to identify and work effectively with key stakeholders on complex, cross organizational and foundation projects in unfamiliar areas.
- Utilize discretion with demonstrated experience in maintaining utmost confidentiality and privacy.
- Available to travel internationally on a frequent basis (25 - 50%).
- Master’s preferred or bachelor’s degree with 5 + years of experience with relevant experience in international relations, regional studies, security, or a related field is required.
- Project/Program management and information security experience highly desired
As part of our standard hiring process for new employees, employment with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation will be contingent upon successful completion of a background check.