Senior Manager, Global Security & Risk

National Endowment for Dem•Washington, DC

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The National Endowment for Democracy (NED) seeks to advance democracy and freedom. NED seeks to empower its partners to inform, organize, and mobilize constituencies for political reforms as a means to build and sustain democracy. At NED, you will join a team of committed individuals who are mission- and values-driven. We are looking for individuals who will deliver their talents in support of our work. Our values include: • Respect • Empathy • Accountability • Adaptability • Excellence Position Summary The Senior Manager, Global Security & Risk supports the implementation of NED’s global security and risk management strategies. The position is responsible for conducting security analysis, coordinating risk mitigation planning, managing day-to-day travel risk operations, and facilitating operational support for NED staff and partners operating in diverse environments. This role requires strong analytical capability and sound operational judgment to translate global developments into actionable guidance and support institutional risk initiatives. The Senior Manager, Global Security & Risk collaborates closely with departments across NED to align policies, systems, and practices that safeguard people, information, and operations. This is a Hybrid position based in Washington, DC.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field; Master’s preferred.
8–10 years of progressively responsible experience in global security, risk management, or international program support.
Experience administering or supporting travel risk management systems and tools.
Advanced knowledge of crisis management frameworks, duty-of-care principles, and organizational security systems.
Strong research, analytical writing, and communication skills.
Demonstrated ability to translate complex global developments into clear, actionable institutional guidance.
Digital proficiency, including strong competence with PC, Artificial Intelligence, and project management platforms and tools.
Experience with security tools and technical security practices.
Strong time management and organizational skills, with the ability to work independently while effectively coordinating across various levels of seniority.
Strong project management skills, including the ability to manage multiple priorities with attention to detail in a fast-paced environment.
Excellent written and verbal communication abilities, including strong writing and editing skills.
Experience in multicultural environments.
Excellent interpersonal skills and a flexible, collaborative approach to working across teams.
Strategic thinker with practical problem-solving skills and a results-oriented mindset.
Positive attitude, flexibility, and a proactive, solutions-focused approach.
Commitment to NED’s mission, values, and ethical standards.
Willingness and ability to work late evenings, weekends, and travel domestically and internationally as required.

Nice To Haves

Experience working in multicultural settings; proficiency in languages other than English is a plus.

Responsibilities

Continuously monitor, analyze, and interpret global political, security, and environmental developments relevant to NED’s area of operation.
Conduct risk assessments to identify potential threats to staff, partners, and institutional operations.
Produce high-quality analytical reports, security briefs, and situational updates for internal stakeholders.
Maintain and refine security and risk data systems to support informed decision-making.
Provide guidance to regional and thematic teams on risk mitigation strategies for programs and grantees.
Assist in the development of tools and frameworks to strengthen partner resilience and duty-of-care measures.
Support program teams in designing and reviewing security plans for field activities and high-risk initiatives.
Help integrate risk management considerations into program design and implementation processes.
Play a key coordination role during emergencies or critical incidents, including communications, documentation, and escalation protocols.
Lead or contribute to post-incident analysis and lessons-learned processes to enhance organizational preparedness.
Serve as a primary liaison with relevant departments and external partners during urgent response efforts.
Draft, review, and update institutional security and risk policies, including travel, duty of care, and digital security.
Partner closely with and advise IT/Cyber, HR, Programs, Operations, and other functions to strengthen cross-departmental risk coordination.
Oversee and evaluate vendor relationships related to travel tracking, emergency assistance, and security intelligence.
Design and deliver security and risk management training for NED staff and partners.
Plan and facilitate tabletop exercises, simulations, and other initiatives that promote organizational readiness.
Contribute to awareness materials and communication products that reinforce a culture of risk-informed decision-making.