Are you a strategic leader with a passion for safety and humanitarian impact? Join the Danish Refugee Council (DRC) as our Global Head of Safety and help shape the future of safety and Duty of Care across one of the world’s leading humanitarian organizations.
About the job
As Global Head of Safety, you will lead DRC’s global safety function, ensuring our people can operate securely in complex and high-risk environments. You’ll drive institutional safety strategy, oversee crisis preparedness, and collaborate with senior leadership to embed safety into every aspect of our operations.
This role sits within the People & Organization Department and works closely with the Secretary General and Executive Directors. You’ll manage a dedicated team of safety professionals and provide technical guidance across regional hubs and country offices.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the development and implementation of DRC’s Global Safety Policy and Safety Risk Management System (SRMS).
- Advise senior leadership on emerging safety risks and mitigation strategies.
- Chair the HQ Crisis Management Team and ensure global crisis readiness.
- Oversee safety compliance, reporting, and continuous improvement.
- Drive global safety training and capacity building.
- Represent DRC in external safety networks and forums.
About You
You are a seasoned humanitarian professional with deep expertise in safety, risk, and crisis management. You bring strategic vision, operational insight, and the ability to lead diverse teams across geographies.
We also expect the following:
- Extensive experience in high-risk environments and crisis leadership.
- Proven success in developing institutional safety frameworks.
- Strong leadership and stakeholder engagement skills.
- Experience in training and capacity building.
- A master’s degree in security risk management or a related field.
- Fluency in English; proficiency in Danish, French, or Arabic is a plus.
We Offer
- A senior leadership role in a globally respected humanitarian organization.
- The opportunity to shape DRC’s safety culture and Duty of Care standards.
- A collaborative, high-performing environment with global impact.
- A chance to make a lasting contribution to the safety and well-being of humanitarian staff worldwide.
Contract length: permanent
Workplace: Lyngbyvej 100, 2100 København Ø, just by Ryparken station
Start date: As soon as possible
Salary & Conditions: According to “Lederaftalen” for managers in Denmark (national terms apply)
Travel: International travel as required
Application process
Submit your application via the link or on www.drc.ngo under Vacancies. Include your CV and a cover letter outlining your motivation and suitability for the role.
Closing date for applications: 7 December 2025
Further information
For questions regarding the vacancy please contact Mads Egeskov Sørensen, Executive Director People & Organization at [email protected]
For further information about the Danish Refugee Council, please consult our website drc.ngo.
Working at DRC
Help applying
DRC as an employer
Founded in 1956, DRC Danish Refugee Council is Denmark’s largest, and a leading international NGO. We have continuously been ranked as one of the best NGOs in the world - and are one of the few with a specific expertise in forced displacement. In over 30 countries, we protect, advocate and build sustainable futures for refugees and other displacement-affected people and communities.
By working in DRC, you will be joining a global workforce of over 6,000 employees. We pride ourselves on our:
- Professionalism, impact & expertise
- Humanitarian approach & the work we do
- Purpose, meaningfulness & own contribution
- Culture, values & strong leadership
- Fair compensation & continuous development
DRC’s capacity to ensure the protection of and assistance to refugees, IDP’s and other persons of concern depends on the ability of our staff to uphold and promote the highest standards of ethical and professional conduct in relation DRC’s values and Code of Conduct, including safeguarding against sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment. DRC conducts thorough and comprehensive background checks as part of the recruitment process.
Danish Refugee Council is an equal opportunity employer and we consider all applicants based on individual merit and qualifications, regardless of personal characteristics or attributes. We are committed to increasing the diversity of our workforce, aiming for a 50% balance of men and women in management roles and ensuring that at least 50% of management roles are filled by national staff. We recognize that a diverse and inclusive team is crucial for achieving our organizational goals and making a positive impact on the communities we serve.