Security Manager

The Client

A private wildlife conservancy in Laikipia, Kenya that focuses on providing a safe habitat for indigenous and critically endangered species, is looking for a Security Manager. The conservancy works closely with surrounding communities to assist them in deriving support and benefits from the conservation work.

The Role

The Security Manager will be responsible for the implementation and continuous improvement of security strategies to protect Ol Jogi Conservancy’s wildlife, staff, visitors, infrastructure, and assets. This position plays a critical leadership role in overseeing daily security operations, coordinating anti-poaching and intelligence efforts, and ensuring a unified and policy-compliant approach to security across the conservancy. The role demands strong coordination with senior management, law enforcement, local communities, and external partners.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Security Operations

• Develop and implement comprehensive security protocols in collaboration with the Adviser – Conservation and Security to mitigate risks such as poaching,   theft, vandalism, and other threats.

• Maintain robust access control systems, including the enforcement of security protocols at all entry points (e.g., G1 and G4), aligned with Ol Jogi’s internal policies.

• Lead the deployment and coordination of NPRs, NSOPs, and the broader Security Ops team for effective coverage and response.

• Manage intelligence gathering and sharing, and respond proactively to emerging threats.

• ·Command and control incident response efforts, ensuring adherence to Rhino and Poaching Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

• Ensure optimal functioning of the control room (Ops Room), surveillance technology, and communication systems.

2. Anti-Poaching and Wildlife Protection

• Take lead responsibility in anti-poaching strategy development and field deployment.

• Coordinate patrols, surveillance, and rapid response operations across the conservancy.

• Manage the Security Canine Unit to enhance detection and response capabilities.

• Collaborate with the Conservation Manager on wildlife monitoring and biological management operations.

3. Asset and Infrastructure Security

• Oversee the security of conservancy infrastructure, vehicles, and other assets.

• Ensure proper utilization, servicing, and fuel accountability of security vehicles.

• Work with the Workshop Manager and Maintenance Supervisor to resolve fence breaches and infrastructure weaknesses.

4. People and Team Leadership

• Provide operational and leadership oversight to Security Supervisors, NPR commanders, and all security personnel.

• Define clear roles and responsibilities within the team, coordinate duty rosters, and manage leave schedules.

• Facilitate ongoing training, performance evaluations, and succession planning.

• Promote a high-performance culture through motivation, mentorship, and consistent performance management.

• Enforce disciplinary protocols as necessary in alignment with company policies.

5. Stakeholder and Community Engagement

• Act as a liaison between the conservancy and external stakeholders, including law enforcement agencies, community leaders, and conservation partners.

• Manage community relations related to security matters and ensure respectful, policy-aligned engagement with internal and external stakeholders.

6. Reporting and Compliance

• Maintain accurate and timely records of patrols, incidents, and key security activities.

• Prepare and submit regular reports to the Chief Executive Manager and Adviser – Conservation and Security.

• Ensure adherence to Kenyan laws and regulations governing protected area security, including proper licensing and documentation.

Skills & Experience

• Degree in Criminology, Security Management, or a related field (strongly preferred).

• Minimum 10 years of experience in security operations, preferably in protected or conservation areas.

• Demonstrated leadership in managing multi-disciplinary security teams, implementing tactical and strategic protocols, enforcing discipline, and upholding confidentiality and ethics.

• Deep understanding of Kenyan laws and regulatory frameworks governing security and conservation.

• Experience in intelligence gathering, investigations, and producing verifiable reports.

• Calm Under Pressure: Maintains composure in high-stress situations and exercises sound judgment.

• Problem Solving & Decisiveness: Analytical, pragmatic, and quick to respond to evolving security scenarios.

• Professionalism: Adheres to chain-of-command, internal protocols, and cultivates respect across all levels.

• Emotional Intelligence: Tactful and respectful in balancing internal dynamics and community relations.

• Adaptability & Resilience: Comfortable with long hours, remote working conditions, and dynamic environments.

• Passion for Conservation: A deep appreciation for wildlife protection and sustainable land stewardship.

• Cultural sensitivity and respect for local communities.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and radio communication systems.

• Valid driver's license with proven ability to operate security vehicles.