Section Head (HoSQC)
Section Head, Security Standards, Quality Assurance & Compliance (HoSQC) The post holder is responsible for the daily management of the Standards, Quality Assurance & Compliance (SQC) team, and supporting the Head of Security Operations Support (HoSOS). This is a key role and includes ensuring that all Security Business Unit Departments and Sections adhere to external regulations, laws, and internal policies; identifying and rectifying non-compliance issues through audits; ensuring that processes, products, and services consistently meet AvSec quality standards and preventing defects through systematic activities and continuous improvement. A solid knowledge of compliance, audit and quality assurance systems and processes is vital, along with the ability to forge relationships with other sub departments and when required, the airport directorate, agencies and external stakeholders. Key Areas of Responsibility: a) Leadership: Lead and manage the Standards, Quality Assurance and Compliance Section and its team of staff members. b) Security provision: To ensure the airport’s security operations meet international standards, comply with ICAO Annex 17, IATA security protocols, and ICAA regulations, while embedding quality assurance, and compliance oversight into all security functions. c) Security Standards Development: Define and maintain security operational standards across passenger screening, baggage handling, cargo security access control. Align security procedures with ICAO, IATA and ICAA requirements. Maintain the library of SEC documentation, and develop and update programs, Manuals, Plans and SOPs for security functions as required. d) Quality Assurance: Establish & manage a Security Quality Management System. Conduct audits, inspections and performance reviews of security checkpoints, K9 Units and surveillance systems. Monitor security service delivery against Key Point Indicators (KPIs) and international benchmarks. Implement corrective & preventative measures to address deficiencies. e) Compliance Oversight: Ensure compliance with aviation security regulations, including ICAO Annex 17 and national directives. Liaise with ICAA and international regulators during inspections and certifications. Maintain documentation and evidence for regulatory audits and certifications. Report compliance risks and mitigation strategies to the Security Headquarters. f) Risk & Incident Integration: Collaborate with the Airport Safety Management System (SMS) and utilize the Security Management System (SeMS) to integrate security compliance findings into risk assessments. Support incident investigations (e.g. security breaches, prohibited items, etc.) and embed lessons learned into revised standards. g) Training Awareness: Liaise with the Security Training Team and develop training modules on security standards, compliance and quality assurance for airport security staff. Promote a culture of vigilance, compliance and continuous improvement. Undertake training delivery in support of the Security Training Team, as required. h) SQC Reporting: Prepare structured reports with clear recommendations and highlight compliance risks with mitigation strategies.
Education: National Level 3 AvSec Manager or equivalent, Quality Assurance, Auditing or a related field, ISO 9001 Quality Management System Certification or equivalent, Managing Safely (IOSH) or equivalent, Possess an AvSec Training qualification. Experience: Applicant must have an aviation background in quality assurance, compliance & audit roles. Minimum of 2 years in an Aviation security management role with domestic and/or international experience. Experience of operating in post conflict, multicultural & low infrastructure environments. Minimum of 3 years working within an airport and/or other highly regulated, physical security-based establishment Computer Skills: Knowledgeable in Microsoft Office suit (user´s perspective) and able to manage other specific project/management software, provided the adequate training. Language Skills: Solid knowledge and command of written and spoken English. Arabic language skills are desirable. Training Requirements: Have experience in training delivery in an airport environment. Behavioral Competencies: • Excellent leadership and team management skills. • Driving Change and continuous improvement. • Strong communication and interpersonal abilities. • Decision-making and problem-solving aptitude under pressure. • Customer-focused with a commitment to service excellence. • Networking, collaborative approach and stakeholders’ engagement and negotiation. • Conflict resolution and negotiation skills. • Delivering Results & Fostering Ownership. • High level of integrity and ethical standards. Technical Competencies: • ICAO Aviation Safety & Security regulations & procedures. • Knowledge of Security Management System (SeMS) principles & practices. • Expertise in compliance monitoring, risk assessment and audit processes for security operations. • Data Analysis from audits, inspections, incident reports. • Audit techniques and use of audit software tools. • Expertise in developing, implementing & maintaining QMS in accordance with ISO 9001 standards. • Risk Management – identification of risks and developing strategies to mitigate those risks. • Strong communication and reporting skills. • Training design and delivery skill sets. • Standards Development.