Security Expert

ABOUT INTERNATIONAL FOUNDATION FOR ELECTORAL SYSTEMS (IFES) in WBG: 

Together we build democracies that deliver for all. Our independent expertise strengthens electoral institutions/systems and builds local capacity to deliver sustainable solutions. As the global leader in democracy promotion, we advance good governance and democratic rights by providing technical assistance; empowering the underrepresented to participate in the political process; and applying field-based research to improve the electoral cycle. We believe that trusted electoral institutions deliver credible elections, effective governing institutions are accountable to the people they serve, all people safely participate in civic and political life on an equal basis and technology, information and data positively serve elections and democracy. Since 1987, IFES has worked in over 145 countries – from developing to mature democracies.  

IFES is currently implementing the project “Democratic Leadership Activity”. This project aims at increasing the capacity of diverse civic stakeholders to meaningfully engage in political reforms and processes. The project will implement a series of activities targeting youth, women and other groups and strengthen their skills and knowledge to constructively engage in politics- it will develop tailored trainings, dialogue and technical research activities together with partners to build space for discussions on technical issues of rights and democracy. 

We are looking for a dynamic and creative colleague to lead the implementation of program activities, together with a team of 5 additional program consultants. 

 PRIMARY FUNCTION/PURPOSE:

The West Bank and Gaza Security Expert will support the IFES team by helping develop scenario planning, security phase planning and security standard operating procedures. The Analyst will work in the IFES Office in Ramallah under the direct supervision of the Country Director.

More specifically, the Expert will collaborate closely with IFES’ Country Director, IFES Global Security Director and IFES Office Manager to recommend SOPs on emergency preparedness, staff movements and provide updates and alerts as necessary. The consultant will endeavor to understand IFES operational setup and program activities to ensure that proper guidance is given based on security and political developments.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:  

Under the direction and supervision of the Country Director, the Security Expert will: 

• Provide a draft set of standard operating procedures (“safety and security manual”) and recommend procurements of security materials for:
• IFES’ Ramallah Office (Physical security and emergency preparedness)
• IFES’ expat local travel and accommodation
• IFES in-country team emergency communications
• Evacuation plans for expatriate staff

Duration of the assignment: 30 days, with the possibility of extension

Timeframe for the assignment: October 2024-December 2024

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POSITION REQUIREMENTS:  

Experience:

• 10+ years of experience conducting political and security analysis of the Middle East region. Strong preference for experience working in Israel, West Bank and/or Gaza.
• Extensive networks within intelligence and security communities in the West Bank.
• Experience providing security assessments and recommendations to governments, embassies, or international organizations operating in the Middle East.

Education:  Bachelor’s degree required in relevant field; Master’s degree in international relations,  or international security preferred.  

Location: The IFES team is not required to work from the IFES office daily, but at minimum must be able to attend regular meetings in IFES Office in Ramallah 

Related Skills or Knowledge: Ability to work in fast-paced environment and provide analysis and recommendations in high pressure environment. Strong communicator, both verbally and in writing. Collaborative, team-oriented individual.  

LANGUAGE SKILLS:  Fluency in English and Arabic 

Travel within the West Bank, to the Region and the US may be required.  

Interested candidates can submit a CV and brief cover letter to [email protected] before November 1 2024 indicating “Security Expert” in the subject line. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.