Senior Political & Security Advisor
Dhaka, Bangladesh
WHO WE ARE
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) works worldwide to provide protection and humanitarian assistance to people affected by conflict and armed violence. We take action in response to emergencies linked to our mandate and at the same time promote respect for international humanitarian law. We are an independent and neutral humanitarian organization, and our mandate stems essentially from the Geneva Conventions of 1949. The ICRC works in close cooperation with National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and other Movement partners, combining complementary mandates and capacities to ensure a coherent and effective humanitarian responses.
THE PURPOSE
The holder of the position performs a dual function. S/he advises the delegation on political developments and security dynamics. In addition, s/he develops, maintains and broadens a network of strategic relationships with relevant stakeholders to safeguard the ICRC’s operations within the country while facilitating delegation meetings with them.
S/he also oversees security management, including the ICRC’s security databases, assesses safety and security risks, implements and monitors the Delegation’s security systems and IT tools, delivers staff training and awareness sessions, and advises the delegation’s management on potential risks to the ICRC.
MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Monitors and analyses political, social, economic and security developments, identifying trends, risks, and opportunities that may impact ICRC activities, access, and acceptance.
- Acts as a key advisor to the delegation’s management on political and security matters, providing analysis to support strategic decision-making and operational positioning in line with institutional humanitarian principles.
- Develops and maintains a strong network of contacts with national authorities and other key stakeholders, facilitating dialogue and supporting the ICRC’s humanitarian objectives.
- Provides regular briefings to management on context dynamics, political sensitivities, and stakeholder positions, including tailored advice to guide engagement and communication strategies.
- Produces reports, analytical notes, and briefing materials, ensuring timely and accurate information-sharing within the delegation.
- Supports management in engagement with key actors, including preparing meetings, advising on positioning, and contributing to negotiation strategies where required and/or in participating in meetings directly.
- Supports the identification, assessment, and mitigation of safety and security risks, in line with institutional policies.
- Ensures the implementation and regular review of security rules, contingency plans, and security/crisis management procedures.
- Manages security tools, including incident reporting, movement tracking, and monitoring mechanisms, ensuring timely incident reporting and documentation.
- Provides security briefings, training, and guidance to staff, including onboarding and regular updates.
- Supports incident management and when required contributes to maintaining safe humanitarian access.
- Ensures operational security measures (communication systems, movement control, compound and vehicle safety) are in place and functioning.
- Participates in security meetings and shares analysis on developments affecting staff safety and operations.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
- In depth knowledge in the political, economic, social and security landscape of Bangladesh and the broader region
- Strong ability to analyze complex situations and identify practical, realistic solutions,
- Strong expertize to summarize and report, including thematic reports and Minutes of Meeting.
- Good knowledge of the Red Cross/Red Crescent Movement.
- University Degree
- Security/safety management experience
- Typically, 4–6 years’ overall professional experience in similar fields or other organizations or governmental structures, experience (work experience in an international organization would be an asset).
- Ability to demonstrate the existence of a relevant network of contacts.
- Fluent English, Bangla language skills reading/writing
- Strong IT skills
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills across diverse cultural contexts with the ability to engage effectively with a wide range of stakeholders.
- Prepared to deploy to field locations with restricted comfort and increased workload
- Only Bangladeshi Nationals
WHAT WE OFFER
- Rewarding work in a humanitarian and multicultural environment.
- Competitive employment package with medical insurance.
- In-house training opportunities for personal development.
HOW TO APPLY
Ready to apply? Please apply through BDJOBS.
- Job Location: Dhaka
- Type of contract: Fixed-Term Contract (Renewable)
- Desired starting date: As early as possible
- Application deadline: 15th May 2026
The ICRC values diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive working environment. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates. Female, minorities, and candidates with disabilities are also encouraged to apply. Due to the large volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further process.
At the ICRC, we value impact, collaboration, respect, and compassion. We seek candidates who share our institutional humanitarian values. For more information on the ICRC values, please visit this page.
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