Child Protection Sr. Specialist

Al-Ittihad Club Company; Makkah Region; On-site; SAR 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent sports organization in Saudi Arabia is looking for a Child Protection Sr. Specialist to implement safeguarding policies and ensure a safe environment for minors. The individual will conduct awareness sessions, manage incidents, and collaborate with various teams to uphold the Club's duty of care. This role requires experience in child protection and strong communication skills.

Qualifications

• Experience in child protection or safeguarding roles.
• Strong communication skills for training and awareness sessions.
• Ability to handle sensitive situations with confidentiality.

Responsibilities

• Support implementation of the Safeguarding and Child Protection framework.
• Conduct awareness sessions and compliance monitoring.
• Act as first point of contact for safeguarding reports.

Job description

Job Purpose

The Child Protection Sr. Specialist supports the implementation of the Club’s Safeguarding and Child Protection framework. The role focuses on executing awareness programs, conducting risk assessments, handling reports, and ensuring incidents are managed in line with policy, confidentiality, and legal obligations. The position ensures all staff and stakeholders actively uphold the Club’s duty of care toward minors.

Key Activities, Responsibilities and Accountabilities (main accountabilities, not exhaustive list of tasks)

Policy Implementation & Awareness

• Support the implementation and monitoring of the Club’s Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy across all departments and teams.
• Conduct regular awareness sessions and refresher training for coaches, volunteers, and staff working with minors.
• Participate in the design and delivery of induction programs focused on safeguarding principles and behavioral expectations.
• Conduct field visits to academies, schools, and training facilities to ensure compliance with safeguarding procedures.
• Prepare monthly compliance and risk assessment reports for review by the GRC & Legal Director.

Incident Reporting & Case Management

• Act as the first point of contact for receiving and documenting reports or concerns related to the safety and wellbeing of minors.
• Ensure all reports are handled sensitively, maintaining strict confidentiality and impartiality.
• Collect evidence, statements, and observations to support investigations into safeguarding incidents.
• Escalate serious or high-risk cases to the GRC & Legal Director, HR, and legal authorities as required.
• Follow up on open cases to ensure appropriate resolutions, documentation, and closure.
• Maintain a digital and physical case registry ensuring all documentation is accurate, traceable, and secure.

Monitoring & Compliance

• Conduct periodic reviews of safeguarding practices at club facilities, ensuring safe environments for minors.
• Collaborate with HR and Recruitment to verify background checks, reference validation, and safe recruitment processes for staff and volunteers.
• Support periodic internal audits and external inspections by regulatory authorities.
• Identify potential risks and propose preventive measures to minimize exposure to harm or misconduct.

Child & Family Support

• Provide guidance and emotional support to minors involved in safeguarding cases.
• Work with families, guardians, and caregivers to promote a safe and supportive environment for young athletes.
• Coordinate with the Club’s medical and psychological support teams when required to ensure proper care.

Reporting & Continuous Improvement

• Prepare weekly and monthly reports on safeguarding trends, training participation, and incident statistics.
• Participate in post-incident reviews to identify lessons learned and recommend policy or process improvements.
• Stay updated on child protection legislation, best practices, and international safeguarding frameworks (e.g., FIFA, SAFF).
• Support the GRC & Legal Director in enhancing reporting tools, awareness materials, and communications.

External Coordination

• Act as a liaison with child protection agencies, legal authorities, and educational institutions when handling active cases.
• Participate in community outreach initiatives promoting youth safety and wellbeing.
• Represent the club at safeguarding workshops, forums, and conferences as assigned.