The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is on a mission to create a more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood system for better production, nutrition, environment, and life—leaving no one behind. As part of this commitment, FAO is seeking a highly skilled and dedicated National Professional Officer (Safety and Security) to join its team in Nairobi, Kenya. This is an incredible opportunity to contribute to global food security while ensuring the safety and security of FAO’s personnel, premises, and assets in Kenya.
If you are passionate about security management and risk assessment and have the expertise to navigate complex security environments, we encourage you to apply!
Job Details
- Position: National Professional Officer (Safety and Security)
- Job Posting Date: February 7, 2025
- Application Deadline: March 1, 2025 (1:59 AM)
- Organizational Unit: CSLS
- Job Type: Staff position
- Type of Requisition: NPO (National Professional Officer)
- Grade Level: N-1
- Primary Location: Nairobi, Kenya
- Duration: Fixed-term: 1 year with possibility of extension
- Post Number: 2009814
- CCOG Code: 1A03d
About the Role
The Security Services (CSLS) division of FAO ensures a safe and secure operating environment across all FAO offices worldwide. The National Professional Officer (Safety and Security) will play a crucial role in supporting security management, mitigating risks, and ensuring compliance with the United Nations Security Management System (UNSMS) guidelines and policies.
This position is based in Nairobi, Kenya and reports to the FAO Representative in Kenya, with technical guidance from the Chief, Security Services (CSLS), and the Regional Security Adviser (CSLS).
Key Responsibilities
As the National Professional Officer (Safety and Security), your role will focus on:
1. Security Management and Risk Assessment
- Advising the FAO Representative in Kenya on safety and security measures in alignment with FAO and UNSMS policies.
- Monitoring and implementing security protocols outlined in Area Security Plans, Security Risk Management (SRM) documents, Residential Security Measures (RSM), and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
- Conducting security risk assessments and analyzing emerging security threats to FAO personnel, operations, premises, and assets.
- Recommending prevention and mitigation strategies based on security assessments.
2. Security Preparedness and Compliance
- Keeping the FAO Country Office up to date on security trends and developments.
- Developing Contingency Plans and SOPs for the country office and sub-offices.
- Organizing training sessions and security briefings for FAO personnel to enhance security awareness.
- Ensuring all security incidents are systematically reported to FAO Headquarters and relevant security bodies.
3. Coordination and Collaboration
- Representing FAO in United Nations Security Management Team (SMT) and Security Cell meetings.
- Liaising with United Nations Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS), law enforcement agencies, and national security bodies.
- Supporting FAO’s participation in the FAO Emergency Notification System.
- Conducting regular safety drills and supporting security equipment procurement and management.
Qualifications and Competencies
Minimum Requirements
- Nationality: Must be a Kenyan citizen.
- Education: Advanced university degree in risk/emergency management, social/political science, military science, public administration, law enforcement, or related fields.
- Experience: At least one year of professional experience in risk management and/or safety and security services in a national security or military setting.
- Language Proficiency:
- English: Working knowledge (Proficient – Level C).
- Local Language: Working knowledge (Proficient – Level C).
Core Competencies
- Results Focus – Ability to drive measurable security improvements.
- Teamwork – Collaborates effectively with diverse teams.
- Communication – Strong ability to convey security measures clearly.
- Building Effective Relationships – Works efficiently with internal and external security stakeholders.
- Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement – Continuously enhances FAO’s security preparedness.
Technical/Functional Skills
- Experience working in multiple locations or field positions is an asset.
- Expertise in risk management and security services within a national security/military setting.
- Knowledge of United Nations Security Management System (UNSMS) policies and procedures is highly desirable.
Why Join FAO?
At FAO, we prioritize the safety and security of our staff while fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We are committed to environmental sustainability, gender equality, and upholding the highest professional and ethical standards.
FAO Offers:
- Competitive salary and benefits in line with UN compensation standards.
- Opportunities for career growth and training.
- A diverse and inclusive work environment.
- Family-friendly policies and flexible working arrangements.
General Information
- FAO encourages applications from women, nationals of under-represented member states, and individuals with disabilities.
- Selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks.
- The FAO workplace is a non-smoking environment.
- Staff members in this category are recruited locally and paid according to a local salary scale.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to apply via FAO’s official recruitment website:
➡ Apply Now
To ensure your application is successful:
- Create an accurate and complete online profile including employment history, qualifications, and language skills.
- Attach a motivational letter to your profile.
- Applications must be submitted before the deadline (March 1, 2025, at 1:59 AM).
For further inquiries, contact FAO’s support team via FAO Client Support Portal.
Don’t miss this opportunity to contribute to global food security while ensuring the safety and security of FAO’s mission in Kenya! Apply today.
