Safeguarding Associate Field Manager

GiveDirectly, a leader in direct cash transfers, has provided over $1 billion to more than 2 million individuals in poverty across 15 countries since 2011. Our evidence-based approach emphasizes cash as a scalable, effective, and dignified form of aid, recognized by major publications like The Economist, NPR, TED, and The Washington Post. We were notably named one of Time100's Most Influential Companies of 2026.

Our workplace fosters candid, analytical discussions and a non-hierarchical structure, promoting high ownership and substantial professional development. If our values resonate with you, this could be an excellent opportunity.

Location: This role is based in Zomba, with significant field engagement expected in Phalombe.

About this Role

The Safeguarding Associate Field Manager is responsible for ensuring GiveDirectly's operations are designed and executed to prevent abuse and for supporting appropriate responses to safeguarding concerns. This field-focused position involves close collaboration with staff and communities to identify and mitigate risks, promote safe practices, and enhance confidence in reporting channels. The Safeguarding AFM assists the Safeguarding Field Manager in integrating safeguarding considerations into operational decisions, guides effective case management and escalation, and monitors team adherence to best safeguarding practices. This role is crucial for maintaining high safeguarding standards, building trust, and protecting the dignity and rights of all recipients.

Reports to: Safeguarding Field Manager

Level: Associate Field Manager

Travel Requirement: Regular travel to conduct field visits in Phalombe is required.

Key Responsibilities:

• Engage directly with communities, recipients, and staff to identify safeguarding risks and implement preventative measures.


• Receive, document, and support responses to safeguarding concerns in alignment with our case management protocols, employing survivor-centered practices and established escalation pathways.


• Conduct safeguarding investigations, particularly those involving recipients or field-based concerns.


• Contribute to the development and maintenance of a network of safeguarding focal points to enhance localized risk identification and promote best practices.


• Integrate safeguarding expertise into the planning, design, and delivery of activities to ensure safety, inclusivity, and respect.


• Support the delivery of ongoing safeguarding training and awareness sessions for staff and partners, and assist teams in consistently applying safe practices.


• Represent safeguarding needs in field operations and foster trusted relationships with local leaders, partners, and community stakeholders.


• Monitor safeguarding trends and incidents, prepare self-assessments and routine reports, and appropriately address any identified gaps in safeguarding practices.

Required Qualifications and Experience:

• Strong alignment with GiveDirectly Values and demonstrated competencies in emotional intelligence, problem-solving, project management, follow-through, and fostering inclusivity. Applications from individuals with personal or professional experience in low-income or historically marginalized communities are highly encouraged.


• Language Proficiency: Professional fluency in both English and Chichewa is required.


• A minimum of 1-2 years of experience in safeguarding, protection, community development, social work, or related operational roles, with a solid understanding of risks pertinent to development or humanitarian programs.


• Exceptional judgment and the capacity to act decisively and appropriately in sensitive or complex safeguarding situations.


• Confidence in identifying safeguarding risks across program activities and supporting staff in consistent application of safe planning and best practices.


• Commitment to survivor-centered practice, confidentiality, and ethical decision-making.


• Proficient communication, facilitation, and documentation skills, with the ability to clearly articulate safeguarding responsibilities and engage respectfully with staff and community members.


• High levels of organization, reliability, and meticulous attention to detail in maintaining safeguarding records, logs, and reports.


• Ability to work autonomously in field settings, manage multiple priorities, and uphold safeguarding standards with professionalism and integrity.

Working at GiveDirectly

GiveDirectly is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants receive consideration for employment irrespective of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability, or any other protected characteristic.

For US applicants: Please review your rights as an applicant.

Commitment to Safeguarding

GiveDirectly is dedicated to the safeguarding of its recipients, staff, and partners. As a member of the Misconduct Disclosure Scheme, we conduct thorough checks with previous employers regarding any abuse or misconduct. Additional pre-hire screening may include in-depth reference checks, criminal background checks, and sanctions screening.

These measures are in place to maintain trust with the communities we serve and prevent harm.

GiveDirectly is committed to upholding all local, national, and international laws protecting human rights. We maintain a strict "zero tolerance" policy for preventing, reporting, or responding to any form of abuse or exploitation, and expect all employees to prioritize the protection and safeguarding of our recipients.

Reasonable Accommodations

We strive to create an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations during the application or interview process, or to perform the essential functions of the role, please contact us at careers@givedirectly.org with the subject line “Accommodation Needed”. We are committed to ensuring your needs are met.

Interested in enhancing your GiveDirectly application? Review our Candidate Application Prep Guide!

Referrals

Do you know an exceptional candidate for this position? We offer a reward of $3,000 for Senior Manager roles and $500 for Manager roles if your referral is hired. Thank you for helping us find top talent!