The Safeguarding Manager will address, and limit risks of abuse and harm directly or indirectly created by SHOFCO’s presence. The incumbent will oversee the implementation of the safeguarding policies and guidelines, including the Child Protection (CP) Policy, DEI Policy, and the Code of Conduct (CoC), with the aim of creating a working environment free from abuse of children or vulnerable adults perpetrated by SHOFCO or its representatives.

Key Duties/Responsibilities

• Raise awareness about SHOFCO’s zero-tolerance policy towards child abuse through SHOFCO’s Safeguarding Policy, Protection from Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Harassment (PSEAH), Code of Conduct, and Anti-harassment, Bullying, and Intimidation policies, as well as contribute to the organizations risk management policy
• Provide safeguarding leadership and direction for SHOFCO through developing and updating the safeguarding strategy and driving operational implementation, interpretation, and application of operational and specialist information from a variety of sources related to safeguarding.
• Improve the effectiveness of prevention, detection, mitigation, and response, including investigations, in the organization, working through Focal Points, Human Resources teams, etc.
• Design and deliver effective strategies, projects, tools, and training to all teams/groups for awareness of legal responsibilities and accountability for countering all abuses across SHOFCO;
• Support Human Resources to include best practices in safeguarding during recruitment, staff management, and HR strategy
• Foster a working environment that is non-threatening, safe, and actively addressing safeguarding in its processes and act as the first point of information for guidance and direction where there are concerns about children and adults who may be at risk
• Spearhead the development of appropriate innovative approaches to countering and addressing barriers to reporting
• In liaison with the legal counsel, ensure that appropriate records are maintained on accidents and harm, suitable for admission in legal proceedings
• Support the investigation team to carry out high-quality, lawful investigations at SHOFCO sites, ensure appropriate reporting to relevant authorities and ensure contractual reporting to donors
• Build trust across the organizations so that stakeholders (including survivors) feel empowered to report concerns
• Provide support and advice for those who are victims or survivors of abuse including referral to local authority where necessary
• Prepare and submit monthly and any other required progress reports as prescribed and in a timely manner
• Maintain good public relations and promote visibility on the work of SHOFCO
• Support the Program team in the development of concept notes
• Represent SHOFCO at designated internal/external meetings and liaise on a regular and ongoing basis with commercial partners
• Extend support to other SHOFCO programs as required

Requirements

Academic and Professional Qualifications and experience required

• Minimum of Degree in Gender, Child Protection, Human Rights, Humanitarian Action, International Development, International Relations, Law, Public Administration, Public Policy, Advocacy, or related degree
• Masters in any related field is an added advantage.
• Certified training in Safeguarding & Gender Inclusion is desired.
• 5 years of working experience in Safeguarding at the Management level.
• Extensive experience in safeguarding or protection roles
• In-depth knowledge of current child protection policies, practices, and legislation, including the Children Act, 2022 (Kenya), the provisions of the Constitution of Kenya and other laws pertaining to children’s rights and sexual harassment, as well as international protocols such as the Convention on the Rights of the Child and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights

Key Skills and Competencies

• Confidence and assertiveness to challenge more experienced and senior colleagues when necessary
• Excellent communication and listening skills in English, with a proven ability to write and edit reports, briefing documents, and monitoring reports
• Attention to detail and the ability to manage large amounts of data and information
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate tactfully and sensitively with a wide range of people in a large organization
• Experience in designing and delivering training or workshops to diverse stakeholders
• The ability to manage stress and remain flexible in challenging working conditions
• A proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to implement continuous improvement initiatives
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to critically evaluate written material such as reports and policies
• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to meet regular deadlines.
• Excellent self-awareness and understanding of the need for self-care, personal strength, and resources to face possible hostilities related to its tasks.