Security Risk Management Specialist - SRM Hub

ABOUT THE COMPANY

GIZ, the German Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit GmbH, provides services in the field of international technical cooperation worldwide. In Kenya, it has been active since 1964, and up to now implements programs in a wide variety of areas, including economic development, green energy and water, governance, food security, and peace and security. The German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) is GIZ’s main commissioning party. However, GIZ as well works closely with the private sector, fostering successful interaction between development policy and foreign trade.

JOB SUMMARY

BackgroundGIZ, the German Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit GmbH, provides services in the field of international technical cooperation worldwide. In Kenya, GIZ has been active since 1964, and up to now implements programs in a wide variety of areas, including economic development, green energy and water, governance, food security, and peace and security. The German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) is GIZ's main commissioning party. However, GIZ also works closely with the private sector, fostering successful interaction between development policy and foreign trade.GIZ operates four regional security risk management (SRM) hubs worldwide, including in East & southern Africa. The SRM Hub for East and Southern Africa is based in Nairobi and supports countries with a range of contexts, from very volatile to relatively stable security situations. Geographically, the SRM Hub East Africa covers Sudan, South Sudan, Ethiopia, Djibouti, Somalia, Kenya, Uganda, Malawi, Burundi, Rwanda, Tanzania, Mozambique, South Africa, Lesotho, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana and Namibia.The aim of the hub is to ensure GIZ’s ability to implement in the countries in the region and to limit the risks and dangers that exist for employees and projects. To this end, the SRM Hub East and Southern Africa supports the Security Risk Management Advisors (SRMAs), Country Security Focal Points and Country Directors in setting up and implementing standardized security risk management systems that are also adapted to the respective context, in accordance with the GIZ security guidelines. The SRM Hub East and Southern Africa also works closely with the GIZ Corporate Security Unit in Germany.

RESPONSIBILITIES

A. Summary of responsibilitiesThe specialist in security risk management is responsible for ensuring that all countries in the ESA Hub’s region fulfil GIZ’s minimum security standards and are well prepared for emergencies.B. TasksThe Specialist, in security risk management performs the following tasks:Constructing and proactively supporting and advising countries in the region regarding the establishment and/or implementation of tailored security risk management systems (in accordance with the GIZ guidelines)Driving innovation and digitalization in security risk management for GIZ.Analysing developments throughout the ESA Hub’s region.Supporting security risk management staff and GIZ’s country offices in their emergency and crisis management.Deputizing the Head of the ESA Hub as well as his deputy upon request.C. Qualifications/ requirementsQualificationsUniversity degree in security and risk management, political or social sciences, peace and conflict research, or related fields/training courses. Proven work experience as outlined below may replace a related university degree.Professional ExperienceSeveral years of professional experience in security risk management, preferably in the context of development or humanitarian work in conflict/crisis/fragile environmentsA comprehensive understanding of the Eastern and Southern Africa political and security context is a prerequisite. A military or police background is neither necessary nor sufficient in and of itself but can be beneficial if combined with relevant work experience in the field of security risk management.A sound knowledge of the main actors and processes within (the German) development cooperation are an advantage.Additional CompetenciesAbility to work quickly, accurately, and independently, with a high level of organization and planning, oftentimes under pressure in case of crisis.Excellent analytical, writing, communication, and presentation skills and the ability to prepare and convey information for different audiences.Excellent command of English.Knowledge of regional languages, French or German is highly beneficial.Experience of working virtually and being able to work with all common MS-Office programs, including proper document layout and design.Ability to work effectively and sensitively in very culturally diverse contexts and teams.Duty station: NairobiContract Duration: up to 31.01.2027Submission of ApplicationVacancy Reference Number: GIZ/CO/03/01/2026Equal Employment OpportunityAt GIZ Kenya, we are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace. We are an equal opportunity employer and do not tolerate discrimination of any kind. We actively seek individuals with diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and skills to build a stronger, more impactful global team.We provide an environment of respect and psychological safety, ensuring equal employment opportunities for all. Discrimination based on race, colour, ancestry, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, ethnic origin, disability, marital status, or any other protected status is not tolerated in any of our workplaces.EthicsGIZ is committed to the safety, dignity, and well-being of all individuals we interact with, including staff, partners, community members, and program participants. We uphold the highest standards in preventing sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment. Child abuse or any form of misconduct by or toward team members is strictly prohibited.All staff are expected to behave professionally, respect local laws and customs, and complete mandatory ethics e-learning courses upon hire.Data ConfidentialityIn accordance with GIZ’s data protection policy, all candidate applications are stored in our database for six (6) months and deleted thereafter.Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

REQUIRED SKILLS

Risk management, Field management, Police service, Security operations, Risk analysis

REQUIRED EDUCATION

Bachelor's degree