Director of Global Safety & Security

Job DetailsDescriptionThe American Friends Service Committee (AFSC) is a Quaker religious organization that promotes lasting peace with justice, as a practical expression of faith in action. Drawing on continuing spiritual insights and working with people of diverse backgrounds, we nurture the seeds of change and respect for human life that transform social relations and systems. Join Our Team! Make A Difference. Position DescriptionTITLE: Director, Global Safety & SecurityJOB CATEGORY: ExemptSTATUS: Full-TimeTYPE OF EMPLOYMENT: RegularDIRECT SUPERVISOR: Deputy General SecretaryREGION/UNIT: Central OfficeLOCATION: Philadelphia, PA, or Remote within the U. S.

East Coast corridor, with the ability to travel periodically to PhiladelphiaAPPLICATION DEADLINE: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. General Summary Of PositionThe Director of Global Safety and Security leads the development, implementation, and evaluation of a comprehensive global security and risk mitigation strategy that protects AFSC personnel, facilities, and programs. They will foster a culture of security awareness and ensure that safety protocols align with industry standards and align with the organization's mission, values, and approach to engaging communities and partners.

Reporting to the Deputy General Secretary, this position will actively consult and collaborate across the organization to support sustainable growth and ensure adaptive responses to evolving operating environments. The Director of Global Safety and Security, in consultation with the Human Resources, Information Technology and Finance Departments, will ensure that AFSC staff have safety and security-related resources, benefits, services, and support as needed and/or in accordance with duty of care best practices.

The Director of Global Safety and Security, with the support of the Deputy General Secretary, will be responsible for leading discussions and providing information to the AFSC Security Steering Committee and providing training, guidance, and/or safety and security-related updates to AFSC’s Regional and Program Directors and Security Focal Points. The Director of Global Safety and Security is also expected to serve as the primary point of contact for any security consultants, trainers, service providers, and questions and concerns regarding safety and security from AFSC personnel across the world.

Essential Functions / Responsibilities And AccountabilitiesThe key responsibilities of the Director of Global Safety and Security include the following: Strategy Development and SupportCollaborates with AFSC Security Steering Committee to review, develop and integrate safety and security goals and strategies into organizational operations, ensuring AFSC’s compliance with internal standards and industry best practices. Regularly travels to US and international regions to consult with leadership and staff on safety and security strategies, providing support while identifying and addressing potential gaps in existing plans.

Works with AFSC leadership, staff, and strategic partners to drive transformation by integrating safety and security practices into operations and program planning while translating strategy into actionable steps with clear accountability, informed decision-making, and precise communication of priorities and processes. Safety and Security Operations ManagementDevelop and implement security procedures and processes for U. S. and international offices in collaboration with AFSC leadership, staff, and consultants. Assess and refine security plans, procedures, and training with key stakeholders, ensuring alignment with safety and compliance standards, as well as best practices in the non-governmental organization (NGO) sector.

Conduct physical security assessments for prioritized S. and international offices and provide actionable recommendations. Participate in the review of building leases and provide recommendations from a safety and security perspective to mitigate risks to staff and programs. Monitor global security events alongside regional and program directors, leveraging external security providers, partners, and the NGO security network to ensure staff (particularly in higher risk locations) remain informed and prepared. Develop and manage the security budget, ensuring strategic allocation of resources to support operational effectiveness and risk mitigation.

Emergency Response and Crisis ManagementServe as a key member of the AFSC Crisis Management Committee that monitors and assesses information to determine response activation and appropriate action levels. Serve in a lead role to assist crisis management efforts, including drafting meeting agendas, coordinating supporting materials, and executing response strategies as directed by the Crisis ManagementAct as a primary emergency contact for crises, as needed 24/7.

Drive the development of emergency planning, disaster recovery, and business continuity strategies to ensure readiness and resilience in response to evolving security threats, including cyber risks, geopolitical instability, workplace violence, and targeted threats such as doxxing and harassment. Monitoring and ReportingEngage actively with NGO and global security networks to monitor emerging threats, exchange real-time information, and inform AFSC's response to incidents and evolving security challenges.

Advise senior management and staff on a variety of matters relating to AFSC safety and security, including the development, maintenance and adherence to AFSC safety and security procedures and directives, staff resilience, and the utilization of security providers, equipment, and/or services. Serve as the primary contact for all AFSC security focal points and provide security updates, training, and guidance on safety and securityDevelop and implement organizational dashboard reports to track trends, enhance reporting, inform strategic decision-making, and prioritize communications to staff and key stakeholders.

Monitor and analyze security updates and incident reports and identify significant events or trends in areas where the AFSC operates. Enhance risk assessment tools to help staff evaluate threats, contextualize situations, and develop mitigation strategies that align with AFSC’s mission and values. Regularly communicate AFSC security management efforts, safety reminders, and any critical updates to all AFSC staff via internal communication platforms, such as Yammer. Information Technology (IT) and Incident Management ResponsibilitiesMaintain and optimize the Security Management page on AFSC’s internal platform, ensuring it remains an updated, accessible, and user-friendly resource for the AFSC community.

Partner with IT to address security concerns, monitor evolving threats and incidents, and evaluate their impact on AFSC securityOversee coordination, response efforts, and after-action reviews for all AFSC incidents to support effective resolution and continuous improvement. Train and support staff in using AFSC’s incident reporting system and serve as the primary point of contact with AFSC’s incident reporting system account manager. Continuously monitor and analyze AFSC incident trends, provide regular reports to the AFSC Security Steering Committee, and deliver recommendations to leadership on quarterly or as-needed basis.

Lead or support investigations as directed by the Deputy GeneralTravel Risk Management ResponsibilitiesLeverage global security networks, AFSC partners and security providers to monitor emerging travel risk trends, assess potential threats, and provide informed mitigation strategies and training for AFSC travelers. Enhance and maintain the Travel Center on AFSC’s internal platform and collaborate with relevant staff and departments to ensure it remains an accessible, user-friendly resource for the AFSC community. Assess safety and security needs for meetings and events and partner with AFSC staff and key stakeholders to provide informed recommendations and guidance.

Deliver pre-travel safety briefings, address travel-related security concerns, and support AFSC business travelers before, during, and after their trips. Respond to travel-related safety and security emergencies, coordinating efforts in alignment with AFSC’s emergency response and crisis management protocols. Security Orientation and TrainingDevelop and deliver security orientation and training programs that align with AFSC’s mission, values, and institutional culture, fostering a security-conscious environment built on respect, integrity, and organizational best practices. Collaborate with Human Resources to integrate personal safety and security training into new hire orientation.

Lead or coordinate comprehensive safety and security training to staff and to reinforce organizational processes, protocols, and the critical role of compliance in risk mitigation and workplace security. Pursue continuous professional development to strengthen core competencies, stay informed on evolving security trends, and uphold expertise in security management. LeadershipProvide leadership and direction to Risk Assessment & Compliance Specialist. Lead global efforts in Risk Assessment and Compliance. Relationship Management/DevelopmentFoster trust and strong connections with staff by providing transparent guidance and collaborative support on security planning, procedural updates, program activities, consultant hiring, and office relocations.

Serve as the main point of contact for all security consultants, service providers, and security focal points. Represent AFSC at security industry conferences, actively building strategic relationships with security networks, service providers, and key partners to enhance collaboration and information sharing. Demonstrate commitment to compliance, reliability, and accountability by consistently adhering to security policies, ethical standards, and organizational protocols, setting a strong example for colleagues and reinforcing a culture of integrity. Provide security leadership by fostering collaboration, guiding teams through complex safety challenges, and maintaining professionalism while navigating differing perspectives and approaches to security management.

Regular attendance and punctuality are required. Operates safely in all conditions and follows policies and procedures. Other duties and projects as assigned. Supervisory / Management RequirementsDirectly or indirectly supervises employees. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include training and engaging employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; addressing complaints and resolving problems. Minimum Experience And QualificationsMinimum Education Required. Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent combination of formalMinimum Experience Required. At least 8 years’ experience in international safety and security, including US and international risk assessments and action plan implementation. Professional certification (i.

e. : CPP, PCI, INSSA certification, CISSP, or equivalent) demonstrating expertise in security management preferred. Experience in applying and integrating industry-recognized security standards (such as ISO 31000 for risk management and ISO 31030 for travel security) into comprehensive security and travel risk management programs, ensuring compliance, operational resilience, and proactive threat mitigation. This position requires demonstrated expertise in international travel, global security risk assessments and security planning, crisis response, and collaboration with global security partners to ensure effective risk mitigation across diverse operational environments.

Must be available for frequent domestic and international travel throughout the year, including extended stays of multiple weeks, and remain accessible for consultation beyond standard office hours. This includes attending evening and weekend meetings, as required. Ability to respond quickly and effectively to any crises or emergencies throughout the organization, as needed 24/7. This position requires strong project management skills, including research, planning, organization, training, and development. The ideal candidate will collaborate with cross-functional teams and demonstrate leadership, integrity, and credibility while fostering a culture of teamwork.

Commitment to Quaker values and AFSC principles, including non-violence and the intrinsic worth of every individual. Respect for diverse identities and perspectives, with an emphasis on non-violent problem-solving and inclusive collaboration. Dedication to fairness, equity, and inclusion across race, class, nationality, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, and disabilities. Experience with standard Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Teams) and related technology. Knowledge of emergency response protocols, risk management, domestic U. S. and international affairs, and conflict resolution desired. Ability to read, write, and speak in more than one language.

Proven ability to navigate complex, interdisciplinary challenges with effective problem-solving skills and sound decision-making, particularly in high-pressure situations. Strong communication skills with the ability to establish systems and networks, coordinate with diverse groups, and write concise and accurate reports. Strong leadership and communication (interpersonal, verbal, written) skills. Strong analytical and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple complex tasks independently while effectively navigating tight time constraints in a multi-priority environment.

Strong understanding and commitment to a consultative approach, fostering collaboration, active listening, and informed decision-making to effectively engage stakeholders and drive strategic outcomesMust be capable of working under tight time constraints in a high-volume environment with multiple priorities. Demonstrated ability to work and communicate with diverse staff. Respect for Quaker values and testimonies. Knowledgeable and supportive of the principles and philosophy of the American Friends Service Committee including non-violence and the belief in the intrinsic worth of every individual. Respect for and sensitivity to cultural, ethnic, racial, gender and religious diversity and familiarity with non-violent approaches to problem solving.

Ability to organize, plan ahead and prioritize multiple tasks and meet deadlines. Demonstrated dedication to the principles of fairness, equity and inclusion in regard to issues of race, class, nationality, religion, age, gender and sexual orientation, and disabilities. PHYSICAL DEMANDSThe physical demands and work environment characteristics described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. CompensationThe AFSC offers a competitive Total Rewards package. This position is Exempt Salary Family:

Section Head Salary Family Range: $95,000 – 120,000 annually. Comprehensive medical and hospitalization plan; term life, Short Term Disability & Long Term Disability, defined benefit pension plan, 403b match, plus other benefits including vacation, and Paid Time Off. The American Friends Service Committee provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

The policy applies to all terms and conditions or employment including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. AFSC’s Central Office and some of its offices in the U. S. are unionized workplaces. This position is not represented. AFSC maintains a deep commitment to a mandate of care for our staff and communities. The American Friends Service Committee is a smoke-free workplace.