Principal Security Adviser (UN) – Somalia

About the role

The Principal Security Adviser (PSA) supports the United Nations Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS) in delivering secure environments for UN programmes in Somalia. Reporting to the Division of Field Operations at UN Headquarters, the PSA works closely with the Africa Desk to plan, implement and oversee the United Nations Security Management System (UNSMS) in a high‑risk, hardship posting.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of security strategies for UN operations in Somalia.
• Coordinate risk assessments, threat analyses and contingency planning with field teams and partners.
• Provide operational security guidance to UN staff, ensuring compliance with UNSMS policies.
• Monitor and report on the security situation, advising senior management on emerging risks.
• Collaborate with the Africa Desk and other UN entities to align security measures with mission objectives.

Required profile

• Extensive experience in security risk management, preferably in complex or conflict‑affected environments.
• Demonstrated ability to lead security programmes and advise senior officials.
• Strong understanding of UN security policies and international standards.
• Excellent analytical, communication and interpersonal skills.
• Willingness to serve in a designated “E” hardship, non‑family duty station.

Required skills

• Security risk assessment and mitigation.
• UNSMS implementation and oversight.
• Crisis management and emergency response planning.
• Stakeholder coordination across UN agencies and external partners.

What we offer

• Opportunity to work on high‑impact security initiatives within the UN system.
• Professional development in a globally recognized security organization.
• Contribution to peace, security, human rights and Sustainable Development Goals.
• Supportive, diverse and dynamic work environment.