Gulf African Bank, a pioneering Shari’ah-compliant financial institution in Kenya, is seeking to recruit a highly competent, dynamic, and results-oriented professional to fill the position of Senior Manager, Security. This is a key leadership role within the organization that demands an individual with an exceptional track record in strategic security management, strong investigative skills, and a thorough understanding of the security landscape within the banking and financial services industry in Kenya.
About Gulf African Bank
Founded with a vision to offer inclusive financial solutions based on Islamic banking principles, Gulf African Bank has built a strong reputation for integrity, innovation, and customer-centricity. The Bank continues to grow rapidly, offering a wide range of retail, corporate, and investment banking services while ensuring that every aspect of its operations aligns with the highest ethical and security standards. As part of our continued expansion and enhancement of internal systems, we are now hiring a Senior Manager, Security, to provide strategic leadership in safeguarding our people, assets, and customers.
Position: Senior Manager, Security
Advert Number: 4776/2025
Number of Positions: 1
Work Station: Nairobi
Reporting To: Chief Operating Officer
Terms of Employment: Permanent
Position Overview
The Senior Manager, Security will be responsible for establishing and maintaining an integrated physical and operational security framework across all Bank premises and operations. This role entails spearheading the development and implementation of strategic security initiatives, leading incident response teams, overseeing investigations, and working closely with law enforcement and regulatory bodies to ensure the safety and integrity of Gulf African Bank’s people, assets, and operations.
Key Responsibilities
1. Strategic Security Leadership
The role holder will be required to take a holistic and strategic approach to the management of physical and procedural security throughout the Bank’s operations.
- Develop and implement a comprehensive, enterprise-wide security strategy in line with the Bank’s objectives and risk appetite.
- Formulate and maintain effective policies and procedures covering access control, CCTV and surveillance systems, cash transit security, visitor screening, and guard operations.
- Proactively gather and evaluate intelligence to mitigate internal and external threats to the Bank, including potential fraud, theft, and physical security breaches.
2. Operational Security Management
The individual will oversee day-to-day security operations and ensure the alignment of all physical and technological security systems across the Bank.
- Provide leadership to the Bank’s security personnel, including contracted guards and Police Officers, ensuring full understanding and adherence to security protocols.
- Manage access control infrastructure, including entry systems and badge issuance for staff and visitors.
- Supervise the operations of alarm systems, vault security, ATM protection, and secure cash movement services across all branches.
- Conduct regular physical security audits, risk assessments, and emergency preparedness drills at all Bank sites.
3. Fraud Prevention and Incident Response
The Senior Manager, Security will lead the Bank’s response to security breaches and fraudulent activity, ensuring immediate containment and thorough resolution.
- Work in tandem with the Compliance function to establish and update fraud detection and response protocols.
- Conduct in-depth investigations into incidents of internal fraud, staff misconduct, data compromise, and unauthorized access, employing forensic methods as necessary.
- Maintain detailed records of all security incidents and ensure timely reporting and escalation to the COO and relevant regulatory authorities including the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK).
- Recommend and implement remedial and preventative measures following each incident review.
4. Training, Awareness, and External Liaison
Beyond managing systems and people, this role demands consistent staff training and relationship building with key external stakeholders.
- Develop and facilitate training modules to enhance employee awareness on robbery preparedness, fraud red flags, whistleblower protections, and workplace safety.
- Represent the Bank in discussions and joint initiatives with law enforcement, insurance providers, security vendors, and regulators.
- Ensure alignment with CBK security and fraud compliance regulations and advocate for best practices in the financial services security sector.
Key Competencies and Personal Attributes
Proven Experience:
The ideal candidate will have at least 7 years of experience in a senior security role within the financial services industry in Kenya, with a demonstrated ability to lead teams and drive high standards.
Strategic Acumen:
A strong background in strategic planning with the ability to formulate, implement and manage security frameworks in a fast-paced, regulated environment.
Technical Proficiency:
Hands-on expertise in modern security technologies including CCTV systems, access control mechanisms, alarm systems, GPS tracking, and digital surveillance.
Investigative and Analytical Skills:
Extensive knowledge and experience in forensic investigations, including root cause analysis and evidence handling in cases involving employee misconduct or fraud.
Regulatory Knowledge:
Familiarity with CBK guidelines and legal frameworks governing banking security and fraud management, including statutory reporting obligations.
Leadership and Communication:
Ability to inspire and mentor a diverse security workforce and communicate effectively with senior management, external partners, and regulatory bodies.
Problem-Solving:
Ability to think critically and respond decisively in high-pressure situations, with a consistent focus on protecting the Bank’s interests.
Academic and Professional Qualifications
- A Bachelor’s degree in Criminology, Security Management, Forensics, or a related discipline is required.
- Professional certification in Fraud Examination (e.g. Certified Fraud Examiner – CFE) or investigation is considered an added advantage.
Experience Required
- A minimum of five years in security management, with substantial experience in the banking or financial services industry. A broader experience of at least seven years in progressive leadership roles will be viewed favorably.
Work Environment and Reporting Line
The successful candidate will be based at the Bank’s headquarters in Nairobi and will report directly to the Chief Operating Officer. The role will involve occasional travel to regional branches and offsite installations as necessary.
Why Join Gulf African Bank?
Gulf African Bank is committed to fostering a secure, inclusive, and growth-oriented work environment. We offer:
- A chance to contribute meaningfully to a bank that upholds ethical financial practices.
- A leadership opportunity with significant impact on the Bank’s operations and reputation.
- A supportive management team committed to innovation and operational excellence.
- A competitive compensation package and opportunities for continuous professional development.
Application Details
Interested and qualified candidates are invited to apply by 10th July 2025. Applications should be submitted through the designated application portal provided in the original job advertisement.
Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Gulf African Bank is an equal opportunity employer and encourages qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply.
