Country Safeguards Manager, Fiji

About the role

The Country Safeguards Manager leads the implementation, coordination and continuous improvement of safeguarding systems for the Pacific Australia Skills programme in Fiji. The role provides strategic and technical leadership to embed safeguarding into program planning, procurement, partnership management and operations.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the Pacific Australia Skills Safeguarding Strategy and annual workplan, ensuring integration across all programme activities.
• Provide strategic advice to the Country Director and leadership team on safeguarding risks, compliance and emerging issues.
• Implement due‑diligence processes for partners, contractors and service providers, conduct risk and capacity assessments and develop mitigation plans.
• Manage safeguarding incidents, coordinate survivor‑centred responses and ensure timely reporting and escalation.
• Deliver safeguarding inductions, awareness sessions and capacity‑building for staff, partners and stakeholders.
• Monitor compliance through field visits, audits and reporting, preparing dashboards and risk analyses for senior management.

Required profile

• Tertiary qualification in Social Work, Psychology, Law, Human Rights, International Development, Education, Gender Studies, Public Policy or related field (post‑graduate desirable).
• Minimum five years’ experience in safeguarding, child protection, PSEAH, gender equality, disability inclusion or related social development work.
• Proven experience implementing safeguarding systems in DFAT‑funded or other donor‑funded international programmes.
• Experience conducting safeguarding due‑diligence, risk assessments and developing mitigation and capacity‑strengthening plans.

Required skills

• Strong knowledge of DFAT safeguarding requirements and international best practices.
• Ability to lead risk assessments, incident management and survivor‑centred response processes.
• Expertise in capacity‑building, coaching and mentoring safeguarding focal points.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and partnership development skills.