At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead security operations at Chelsea FC, ensuring safety and excellence on matchdays and events.
- Company: Join ABM, a global leader in integrated facility solutions with a commitment to innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 24/7 GP access, mental health support, fitness programmes, and exclusive employee perks.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for growth and development in a supportive team culture.
- Why this job: Be a key player in a high-profile environment, making a real impact on security and safety.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in security, excellent communication skills, and experience in high-pressure environments.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
LOCATION: Chelsea
SHIFT PATTERN: as required, 45 hours per week
SALARY: Competitive
Overview
ABM delivers security services within high-profile, globally recognised environments where safety, performance, and reputation are intrinsically linked. We are seeking an exceptional Security Account Manager to lead the delivery of security services across the Chelsea Football Club estate, including Stamford Bridge and Cobham Training Ground. This is a critical leadership role responsible for the end-to-end security operation across both non-matchday and matchday environments. The successful candidate will oversee a core security team across both sites, with responsibility for scaling and leading a significantly increased workforce during matchdays and major events. You will be a highly visible leader, responsible for operational excellence, stakeholder confidence, and continuous improvement, ensuring the security function is proactive, intelligence-led, and aligned to both ABM standards and the client’s expectations.
Key Responsibilities
- Operational Leadership
- Take full ownership of security operations across Stamford Bridge and Cobham Training Ground
- Lead and manage the core security teams across both sites, ensuring consistent, high-quality service delivery
- Oversee matchday security operations, including the mobilisation and management of an expanded workforce (circa +50 officers)
- Ensure effective planning, coordination, and execution of all matchday and event security activity
- Client & Stakeholder Management
- Act as the senior point of contact for Chelsea FC and associated stakeholders
- Build and maintain strong, trusted relationships across client teams and partner agencies
- Provide clear reporting on performance, risks, and service delivery
- Performance & Commercial Management
- Deliver all contractual KPIs and service level agreements
- Manage labour hours, resource allocation, and budgets in line with contract requirements
- Drive operational efficiency whilst maintaining high service standards
- Security Strategy & Continuous Improvement
- Lead a culture of continuous improvement, identifying opportunities to enhance service delivery and reduce risk
- Embed intelligence-led security practices, ensuring emerging threats and risks are understood and acted upon
- Work closely with ABM’s Corporate Security and Intelligence functions to inform decision-making
- Compliance & Governance
- Ensure full compliance with all relevant legislation, SIA requirements, and company policies
- Maintain robust audit, inspection, and assurance processes across both sites
- Ensure all staff are trained, competent, and operating in line with agreed procedures
- People Leadership
- Lead, develop, and inspire a high‑performing security team
- Promote and embed ABM’s core values and behavioural standards across the operation
- Ensure effective supervision, performance management, and succession planning
- Incident & Risk Management
- Take ownership of incident response, investigation, and escalation processes
- Ensure preparedness for a range of scenarios, including major incidents and emergency response
- Maintain strong situational awareness across both sites at all times
Reporting Line
Reports to: General Manager
Dotted line to: Director of Corporate Security & Contingency Planning
Essential Skills & Experience
- Proven experience in a senior security leadership role within a complex, high-profile environment
- Strong operational experience in event security, stadiums, or large public-facing venues
- Demonstrable experience managing large, multi-layered teams
- Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
- Strong understanding of intelligence‑led security and threat/risk management
- Experience managing budgets, resources, and contractual performance
- In‑depth knowledge of security legislation, compliance, and best practice
- Ability to operate effectively in fast‑paced, high‑pressure environments
Desirable
- Experience within Premier League / elite sports environments
- Background in police, military, or specialist security roles
- Experience within integrated FM or multi-service contracts
Working Pattern
Full‑time, site‑based role split between Stamford Bridge and Cobham Training Ground. Regular attendance required on all home matchdays and key events. Flexibility required to support evenings, weekends, and peak operational periods.
Benefits
- 24/7 GP: Both you and your immediate family can speak to a UK‑based GP from the comfort of your own home
- Mental Health support and Life Event Counseling
- Get Fit Programme
- Financial and legal support
- Cycle to work scheme
- Access Perks at Work, our innovative employee app where you can find: discounts, gift cards, cashback, and exclusive offers
- Life: Search for resources and tools on topics ranging from family and life to health, money and work
- Support: Online chat or telephone service for urgent support in a crisis
About ABM
ABM (NYSE: ABM) is one of the world’s largest providers of integrated facility, engineering, and infrastructure solutions. Every day, over 100,000 team members deliver essential services that make spaces cleaner, safer, and efficient, enhancing the overall occupant experience. ABM serves a wide range of market sectors including commercial real estate, aviation, mission critical, and manufacturing and distribution. With over $8 billion in annual revenue and a blue‑chip client base, ABM delivers innovative technologies and sustainable solutions that enhance facilities and empower clients to achieve their goals. Committed to creating smarter, more connected spaces, ABM is investing in the future to meet evolving challenges and build a healthier, thriving world. ABM: Driving possibility, together.
ABM are committed to employment practices that promote diversity and inclusion in employment regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, sex, marriage and civil partnership status, pregnancy and maternity status, race, religion or belief. We are proud members of the Armed Forces Covenant Employer Recognition Scheme.
Head of Security employer: ABM
ABM is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at the prestigious Chelsea Football Club estate. With a strong focus on employee well-being, we provide comprehensive benefits including 24/7 GP access, mental health support, and opportunities for professional growth within a culture that values diversity and inclusion. Join us in leading a high-performing security team where your leadership will directly impact safety and operational excellence in a globally recognised setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Security
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the security industry, especially those linked to Chelsea FC or similar environments. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your leadership skills! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, highlight your experience in managing large teams and delivering high-quality service. They want to see that you can lead effectively, especially during matchdays.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Research the latest trends in security and be ready to discuss how you can implement intelligence-led practices. This shows you’re not just reactive but also forward-thinking, which is crucial for a role like this.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at ABM and contributing to our mission of creating safer spaces.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Security
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in security leadership, especially in high-profile environments. We want to see how your skills align with the role at Chelsea FC!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As a Head of Security, you'll need to lead a team effectively. Use your application to demonstrate your past experiences in managing large teams and ensuring operational excellence. We love seeing examples of how you've inspired and developed your team!
Highlight Stakeholder Management Experience:This role involves working closely with clients and stakeholders. Be sure to include specific instances where you've built strong relationships and communicated effectively. We want to know how you’ve handled client expectations in the past!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensure you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at ABM
✨Know Your Security Fundamentals
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of security legislation, compliance, and best practices. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you understand the critical nature of the role and can lead effectively in a high-profile environment.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles where you've successfully led large teams or managed complex operations. Highlight your ability to inspire and develop a high-performing team, as this is crucial for the Head of Security position.
✨Understand Stakeholder Management
Familiarise yourself with the key stakeholders you’ll be working with, especially Chelsea FC. Be ready to discuss how you would build and maintain strong relationships, and provide clear reporting on performance and risks.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Think of scenarios where you've had to respond to incidents or manage risks effectively. Be prepared to share these experiences during the interview, demonstrating your ability to remain calm under pressure and make informed decisions quickly.
