Director of Journalist Safety

Job DetailsJob Location: Washington Headquarters - Washington, DC 20237Position Type: Full TimeSalary Range: $62.50 - $62.50 HourlyThe Director of Journalist Safety serves as VOA's senior official responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing policies and programs that protect journalists and staff operating in increasingly complex and high-risk environments worldwide. The position leads risk assessment, safety planning, crisis response, hostile-environment preparedness, and coordination related to detained or threatened journalists. The incumbent works closely with VOA leadership, USAGM offices, security officials, and external partners to ensure the safety and security of VOA personnel.

Key Responsibilities

Journalist Safety Leadership (70%)

Develop and implement journalist safety policies, procedures, and risk mitigation strategies.
Conduct threat and risk assessments affecting VOA journalists and staff.
Advise VOA leadership regarding emerging threats and safety concerns.
Coordinate with the USAGM Office of Security on protective measures, training programs, and safety equipment.
Develop protocols for journalists working in hostile environments and conflict zones.
Serve as VOA's lead coordinator when journalists are detained, imprisoned, or threatened abroad.
Coordinate outreach and advocacy efforts concerning wrongfully detained journalists.
Work with Human Resources and other offices to support employee mental health, stress management, and trauma resources.
Develop and deliver annual journalist safety training and new employee safety orientation programs.
Coordinate hostile environment awareness training for staff and contractors.
Coordinate with agency risk management officials on enterprise risk planning and continuity of operations efforts.

Strategic Management and Administration (15%)

Advise VOA executives on policy implementation, risk management, and program strategy.
Participate in strategic planning, budgeting, resource management, and special projects.
Collaborate with senior leaders across VOA and USAGM on policy development and operational initiatives.
Evaluate new practices and techniques to improve operational effectiveness.
Represent VOA on the USAGM Emergency Action Committee, including matters involving sensitive and classified information.
Assist with personnel management, financial planning, and contractor oversight.

Team Lead Responsibilities (15%)

Coordinates and prioritizes team assignments to ensure timely completion of projects and organizational objectives.
Provides technical guidance, coaching, and support to team members and reviews work for quality and effectiveness.
Communicates priorities, deliverables, milestones, and deadlines and monitors progress toward successful completion.
Identifies process improvements and operational efficiencies to enhance productivity and mission effectiveness.
Participates in recruitment, onboarding, training, and employee development activities and provides recommendations to management regarding performance and growth opportunities.

Qualifications
Extensive experience in journalist safety, risk management, international media operations, security planning, or related fields.
Knowledge of international affairs, U.S. foreign policy, and global threats affecting journalists.
Knowledge of broadcasting, digital media, and international journalism operations.
Experience developing policies, procedures, and operational programs.
Ability to assess complex threats and develop mitigation strategies.
Strong leadership, project management, and stakeholder engagement skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
Ability to manage sensitive issues requiring diplomacy and discretion.
Familiarity with hostile-environment operations and safety best practices for journalists.