The Associated Press is the essential global news network, delivering fast, unbiased news from every corner of the world to all media platforms and formats. Founded in 1846, AP today is the most trusted source of independent news and information. On any given day, more than half the world's population sees news from AP.

The Associated Press seeks a deeply experienced leader for the role of Vice President of Global Security and Safety.

We’re looking for a nimble and creative thinker to lead the team keeping AP journalists safe in the face of war, civil unrest, online attacks and identity-based violence. You should be passionate about helping colleagues break major news by mitigating the risks they encounter while being dispatched to the world’s biggest stories.

Responsibilities

In this role, you will direct the security managers and vendors who safeguard our personnel, facilities, systems and equipment worldwide. Reporting to the executive editor, you’ll develop and implement programs for physical and digital security, threat analysis, incident response planning and crisis management on a global scale.

You will partner with newsroom leaders to engage in story and staffing discussions, ensuring security is part of the conversation at every step, from planning to publication. You must possess the highest editorial standards, upholding the AP’s commitment to preserving the integrity and impartiality of our news reporting.

We’re looking for someone who will:

• create and implement security and risk assessment plans, effectively and persuasively communicating security-related concepts to a broad range of technical and non-technical staff at all levels.
• assess, evaluate and synthesize a large volume of information and intelligence – often from afar – and swiftly provide strategic direction on mitigating threats, including criminal and terrorist activity directed at AP.
• design and organize hostile environment and first aid training courses that will empower field journalists to report more safely in difficult and dynamic conditions.
• collaborate closely with the senior director of information security to implement policies and protocols that ensure the safety of AP journalists and their sources, online and offline.
• partner with colleagues in the Human Resources and Legal departments to address sensitive security issues, including investigating security breaches and assisting with disciplinary and legal matters as necessary.
• build and maintain relationships with key law enforcement, military, intelligence and security officials and agencies internationally.
• be willing and able to travel extensively, often at short notice, to help AP journalists navigate complex and dangerous situations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience, such as 10 years of full-time work in security, military, law enforcement or intelligence, or at a daily newspaper, broadcast station, digital news outlet or AP bureau.
• A demonstrated record of excellence as a leader, with a proven history of guiding and supporting your staff. Experience working with journalists is a plus.
• Outstanding interpersonal skills, including excellent verbal and written communication across cultures and quick responsiveness across time zones.
• A commitment to actively supporting a diverse, inclusive and equitable work environment.
• Advanced-level professional competency in written and spoken English.
• Professional competency in a language besides English.

We will consider strong candidates who do not meet every listed qualification. You may use a cover letter to describe the unique qualifications you would bring to this role.

All applicants must be able to work in the UK or be able to gain permission to work in the UK. Please note, we will review applications on a rolling basis until the position is filled.