Chief Safety & Security Manager

For the purpose of the expected award in Manila for the project detailed below, we are looking for expressions of interest for the position of: Chief Safety Security Manager The North–South Commuter Railway (NSCR) is a major heavy rail infrastructure project designed to transform mobility across Metro Manila and its neighboring provinces. Spanning approximately 147 km (34 stations) from Clark in the north to Calamba in the south, the system is a fully electrified, double-track, standard-gauge railway, built to international heavy rail standards. The NSCR is conceived as a high-capacity heavy rail system, capable of supporting both commuter and airport express services, with infrastructure designed for intensive operations, high speeds (up to 160 km/h), and large passenger volumes. The network includes modern stations, full grade separation, and advanced signaling and control systems, ensuring high levels of safety, reliability, and operational efficiency typical of major metropolitan heavy rail networks. The rolling stock consists of electric multiple units (EMUs) compliant with international heavy rail specifications, enabling high acceleration, optimized dwell times, and energy-efficient operations. Two types of EMUs will operate on the line: Commuter trains and Limited Express trains. Both are configured for high-frequency commuter services, and for limited-stop airport express services, all featuring air-conditioned cars, wide doors, and layouts designed for high passenger throughput and rapid boarding/alighting. The NSCR is expected to significantly increase the rail modal share in the region, targeting up to 800,000 passengers per day in its full configuration. By connecting key economic hubs, residential areas, and Ninoy Aquino International Airport, the system will play a critical role in reducing congestion, lowering emissions, and supporting sustainable urban development. As a flagship heavy rail project, NSCR requires extensive expertise in high-capacity rail systems, including operations, maintenance, and asset management aligned with international best practices. Experience in heavy rail environments is therefore a key prerequisite for all critical roles within the project. Transdev, together with its consortium partners Tokyo Metro, Mitsubishi Corporation and Ayala, has formed a consortium to address the bid and, upon award, will deliver the Operations and Maintenance (O M) of the overall system, bringing together strong and complementary local international expertise in high-capacity rail operations and asset management. Project Context The NSCR is the largest railway infrastructure projects currently being delivered in the Philippines. It is currently under construction by the appointed Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) Contractors. Commercial service is planned to start progressively through a series of phased operational openings, with infrastructure, systems and operational sections becoming available as construction, testing, commissioning and readiness activities are completed. The first phase is currently expected to be handed over to the O M Concessionaire towards the end of Q4 2027. Following Contract Award, the O M Concessionaire will undertake a comprehensive pre-operations phase, working closely with the Grantors, EPC Contractors, the Independent Consultant, the Employer's Independent Safety Assessor (E-ISA), Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) and other stakeholders to support the transition from project delivery into passenger railway operations. Key activities during this period will include mobilisation of the O M organisation, recruitment and onboarding of personnel, development and implementation of operational procedures, training and competency management, participation in Testing and Integration activities, operational readiness planning, Safety Case development, Trial Running and preparation for phased commencement of passenger services. The successful candidate will therefore be expected to contribute not only to the long-term operation of the railway, but also to the establishment, preparation and progressive commissioning of the operational railway organisation from mobilisation through to the successive Partial Operation phases until Full Operation. Role Purpose The Chief Safety Security Manager’s role is to define, implement, and oversee the safety and security strategy for the railway, ensuring full compliance with health, safety, and security regulations, and fostering a strong safety culture to protect passengers, employees, and assets in line with international heavy rail standards. Key responsibilities Develop and implement the safety and security management system across all operations Ensure compliance with health, safety, and security regulations and standards Lead and monitor risk assessments, hazard identification, and mitigation measures Oversee safety assurance, audits, and continuous improvement programmes Manage and investigate incidents, accidents, and safety events, ensuring corrective actions Promote and embed a strong safety culture across all teams and functions Coordinate emergency preparedness, crisis management, and response planning Ensure alignment of safety practices across operations, maintenance, and contractors Monitor and report on safety performance indicators and compliance metrics Interface with regulatory authorities and external stakeholders on safety matters Lead training and awareness initiatives on health, safety, and security practices Your profile Minimum of 5 years’ relevant industry experience in transport, rail, or safety-critical environments Proven experience in the management of transportation safety Familiarity with relevant health and safety standards and regulations Experience in heavy rail or complex transport systems is an advantage Strong knowledge of safety management systems and regulatory frameworks Experience in risk management, incident investigation, and compliance audits Demonstrated capability in developing and promoting safety culture Strong understanding of safety in operational and maintenance environments Excellent analytical, communication, and reporting skills Ability to engage effectively with regulators, stakeholders, and operational teams Strong leadership and decision-making skills in safety-critical contexts Language You speak and write English fluently. Additional information Location: Manila, Philippines Award date : December 2026 Expected contract signature : January 2027 Mobilisation date : Early 2027