Deputy Director Global Security (UK/NL/Kenya)

About the role

Mercy Corps is seeking a Deputy Director Global Security to support the Senior Director in shaping and implementing security policies across its worldwide operations. The role will be based in the UK, the Netherlands, or Kenya and will involve close collaboration with field and headquarters teams to assess and mitigate security risks in complex humanitarian environments.

Key responsibilities

• Assist the Senior Director in developing and updating global security policies and operating procedures.
• Lead a team of security advisors, providing guidance, mentorship, and performance oversight.
• Conduct risk assessments and threat analyses for programmes in high‑risk locations.
• Coordinate security planning and response with programme managers, partners, and local authorities.
• Ensure compliance with donor security standards and internal risk‑management frameworks.
• Provide strategic input during emergency deployments and crisis situations.

Required profile

• Extensive experience in security management within humanitarian or development contexts.
• Proven ability to lead and develop multidisciplinary security teams.
• Strong understanding of risk‑management principles and emergency response protocols.
• Excellent communication skills and the capacity to work across cultures and time zones.
• Willingness to travel frequently to field locations.

Required skills

• Security risk assessment and mitigation.
• Development of security policies and standard operating procedures.
• Crisis management and emergency response planning.
• Stakeholder engagement and coordination.

What we offer

• Competitive salary aligned with local benchmarks (UK GBP 63,840; NL €75,000; Kenya – commensurate with experience).
• Full‑time, permanent contract with opportunities for professional growth.
• Dynamic, mission‑driven environment working on some of the world’s toughest humanitarian challenges.
• Supportive, diverse and inclusive workplace culture.