The International NGO Safety and Security Association (INSSA), a non-profit association committed to improving the quality and effectiveness of safety and security for humanitarian relief and development assistance workers operating in dangerous environments around the world, has announced a partnership with The DeWitt Companies to bolster its growing NGO Security Professional Development Program.

INSSA has established certifications for security risk management professionals at the country, regional, global and executive levels. The Association is also developing a series of post-certification professional development requirements and links to resources for retaining the highest level of certification reached by INSSA-certified members.  These will be aligned with internationally recognised standards to ensure that once certification is achieved, it is properly maintained and the concepts and skills of the certified individual are updated appropriately.

“INSSA is grateful for The DeWitt Companies’ generous support and we are thrilled with this strategic alliance,” said INSSA Chair Michael O’Neill. “Partnering with DeWitt will give more security managers the opportunity to enhance their professional development through certification as they serve the world’s most vulnerable populations in some of the most complex environments.”

The DeWitt Companies, based in the US, operates in more than 100 countries and provides household goods moving services to the US military and State Department. The company will play an integral role in raising the profile of the certification program. Resources for this program also include online education opportunities in topics such as safety and security risk management, duty of care, crisis management, business continuity, contingency planning, and policy development. 

“Safety and security is top of mind for us so teaming with INSSA to enhance its professional development program is a natural fit,” said John Burrows, President of DeWitt Move Worldwide, one of five companies in DeWitt’s integrated relocation services network. “It’s an honour to play a part in building a knowledge bank to enhance the lives of those who work in the humanitarian aid and development sector.” Burrows also serves as CEO of DeWitt Guam and is an Executive Committee member for the International Association of Movers.