Main purpose of job:

In September 2023, the UK Government opened its first, purpose-built embassy building. For it to function as securely and effectively as possible, the new Embassy is seeking an excellent Post Security and Estates Manager (PSEM).

The work of the PSEM is a key one in the secure running of the whole UK Embassy in N’Djamena and its estates. The PSEM will assist with the provision of security across the UK government estate in N’Djamena, as well as lead on large elements of the management and maintenance of that estate, as well as supporting the wider team on transport and logistics. The PSEM will provide administrative support to the Post Security Officer (PSO), liaise with the Chadian authorities (e.g. Police, military) and non-government organisations regarding the security situation in Chad, with a particular focus on N’Djamena.

The PSEM is an exceptional, well-organised and efficient person who will lead on the security detail of our embassy, is comfortable with managing internal and external security and estate management matters, good at solving problems and taking action, and able to work with a range of people. The ideal candidate should not be afraid to roll up their sleeves and get their hands dirty. The PSEM will be a team player, willing to adapt and support colleagues and the wider work of the embassy as required.

Roles and responsibilities:

As PSEM, you will be required to provide hands on and administrative support to the Deputy Ambassador (Post Security Officer), the Corporate Services Team, the Regional Overseas Security Manager (based in Abuja) and the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office’s (FCDO) Estates and Security Directorate (based in London), ensuring a safe and secure environment for the staff of British Embassy N’Djamena to live and work in.  An essential component of the role will be establishing and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders and partners. The jobholder will be required to liaise with diplomatic missions, state authorities, non-governmental organisations and private companies in order to build a network of key contacts and supporting partners to assess the dynamic security environment and contribute to the effective management of the UK countywide operation in Chad. There will be a particular emphasis on protecting staff and assets in N’Djamena and facilitating and supporting field teams on deployment across the country: you will assist on elements of Travel Risk Assessments for any travel outside of the capital. In addition to the liaison and logistical role, the security manager will also be responsible for the husbandry of an extensive stock of security equipment. Managing the distribution, collection and maintenance of this equipment is an essential element of the role, as we are heavily reliant on technical and physical hardware to support our diverse operation.  

The PSEM will also have oversight of facilities management as well as planned and preventative maintenance of the Embassy’s estates. They will also work closely with various FCDO teams on upcoming Estates related projects as required. The PSEM will manage the British Embassy N’Djamena property portfolio and ensure the overall efficient and effective operations of Estates work.

The PSEM will have a high level of verbal and written English and French and is expected to write reports and undertake analytical assignments.

Duties (Security)

• Act as key point of contact and manage contract with privately contracted civilian guard force and Diplomatic Police Officers
• Manage security inventories and equipment
• Maintain and forge new contacts with security agencies including Diplomatic Protection Unit and other Diplomatic missions
• Conduct checks of Security (including alarm tests and Incident/Bomb buttons) at each estates location, reporting any issues to the PSO
• Conduct CCTV checks and maintenance of equipment and monitors
• Manage Access Control permissions in conjunction with PSO
• Assist the PSO in providing training for international and local staff members
• Assist as required in security briefings for HMG visitors
• Issue and maintain the store of Personal Protective Equipment
• Conduct radio checks and telephone tree exercises, and maintain the radio call sign list and inventory
• Carry out regular checks of Satellite Phones, recording any faults
• Ensure that unserviceable equipment is promptly repaired
• Maintain contact with partners around security/incident databases
• Produce quarterly updates to the Post Leadership Committee on security matters
• Liaison with local Government authorities for vehicle registration and other operational needs
• Out of office hours support if required

Duties (Estates)

• Act as key point of contact and manage contract with privately contracted maintenance, cleaning and grounds keeping contractor
• Management of fuel handling, delivery and consumption, as well as generator maintenance/checks
• Prepare and deliver forward programmes of preventive maintenance and repair for the embassy estate, in conjunction with contractor, keeping staff informed and updated on routine maintenance work
• Manage the Embassy estate ensuring we compile with FCDO standards and policies
• Carry out mandatory, regular health and safety checks of estate in accordance with FCDO guidelines (e.g. monthly etc checks of equipment, water)
• Co-ordination and reporting of faults of machinery/equipment
• Manage and monitor annual service contracts
• Pyramid Property Database – maintain basic property data and inventories
• Ensure all stakeholders, including contractors, are aware of safety regulations
• Complete logbook for all residential/office keys

Resources managed (staff and expenditure): 

• The Post Security Manager will closely monitor the performance of a privately contracted civilian guard force and Diplomatic Police Officers posted at our residential plots; as well as our maintenance contractor

• Good IT skills including knowledge of Microsoft Office
• Good organisational skills and ability to prioritise a variety of tasks with conflicting deadlines
• Solution orientated – focused on solutions, not problems and obstacles