Security Manager – REACH Malaria Project

In the world of global health innovation, our mission to save lives is only possible when our people are safe. PATH is seeking a strategic, highly experienced Security Manager to lead safety and security operations for the REACH Malaria and Neglected Tropical Diseases (MNTD) project. Based in Abuja and overseeing operations across 7 high-impact states, you will be the primary architect of a safety culture that enables our 70-person team to deliver life-saving interventions in complex and dynamic environments.

Job Summary

The Security Manager is responsible for the protection of all project staff, assets, and operational integrity. You will move beyond traditional oversight to provide proactive risk analysis, crisis leadership, and strategic planning. This role is essential for navigating the unique security landscape of Northern Nigeria, ensuring that PATH remains an agile and secure leader in international development.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Risk Analysis & Advisory

• Continuously monitor and decode the socio-political and security landscape in all operational areas.
• Provide the project leadership team with timely, actionable intelligence and strategic recommendations to guide operational decisions.
• Prepare high-level security reports, including threat assessments and weekly intelligence updates.

Operational Security & Journey Management

• Develop and enforce a comprehensive Security Plan, including specialized SOPs for field travel, office security, and incident protocols.
• Oversee a state-of-the-art journey management system, including real-time staff tracking and rigorous travel risk assessments.
• Manage the physical security of all project offices and residences, including the supervision of contracted security forces and technical access controls.

Incident & Crisis Leadership

• Serve as the primary focal point and lead commander for all security incidents and project crises.
• Ensure swift, decisive action to mitigate risks to staff and assets during emergencies.
• Conduct post-incident debriefs and investigations to refine security protocols and prevent recurrence.

Capacity Building & Liaison

• Design and deliver regular security briefings and emergency preparedness drills for a diverse team of 70 personnel.
• Establish and nurture a robust network of contacts, including local military, police, community leaders, and NGO security focal points.
• Facilitate secure access to project sites through strategic community engagement and official security networking.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Academic Foundation: Bachelor’s degree in Security Management, International Relations, Political Science, or a related field. (A distinguished military or police background will be considered in lieu of a degree if accompanied by extensive civilian security experience).
• Professional Experience: At least 7 years in security management, with a minimum of 3 years within the international NGO or UN sector in Nigeria.
• Regional Expertise: Proven experience operating in Northern Nigeria with a deep, nuanced understanding of the local security context and conflict dynamics.
• Technical Mastery: Demonstrated success in developing full-scale security plans, conducting complex risk assessments, and leading crisis response teams.
• Language: Fluency in English is required; proficiency in Hausa or other local languages relevant to the project states is a significant professional advantage.
• Certification: Professional security certifications (e.g., CPP, PSP, CSMP, or CPO) are highly desirable.

Core Competencies

• Decisive Leadership: Ability to maintain calm and make sound, ethical decisions under extreme pressure.
• Analytical Sharpness: A high level of situational awareness and the ability to spot emerging trends before they become threats.
• Interpersonal Diplomacy: Skill in building trust with both high-level security actors and diverse project staff.
• Integrity: Unwavering commitment to discretion and the professional standards of PATH.

Working Conditions

• This is a full-time role based in Abuja.
• Requires frequent and extensive travel to the 7 project implementation states, often on short notice and into remote or volatile areas.

Why This Role is Vital

As PATH accelerates innovation to save women and children, our Security Manager is the “enabler” who makes it all possible. By managing risk effectively, you allow our scientists, medics, and field officers to focus on eradicating malaria and NTDs in the most challenging regions of Nigeria.

Method of Application

Interested candidates should apply through the PATH Workday portal: Apply via the PATH Career Portal

Tips for Applicants

1. Focus on “Enabling” vs. “Restricting”: PATH looks for security professionals who find safe ways to get the job done, rather than just saying “no.” Highlight how your security planning has allowed programs to continue in difficult areas.
2. Detail Your Network: In Northern Nigeria, who you know is as important as what you know. Mention your experience in building relationships with local community leaders and security agencies.
3. Quantify Your Crisis Experience: If you have managed a kidnapping, an office evacuation, or a civil unrest incident, describe your leadership role and the successful outcome in your cover letter.