Head of Security in London

Head of Security in London

London Full-Time 50000 - 65000 € / year (est.) No home office possible
ABM

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 in a fast-paced, exciting sports environment.
  • Why this job: Be a key player in a high-profile environment, making a real impact on security and safety.
  • Qualifications: Proven senior security leadership experience, strong communication skills, and knowledge of compliance.

The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 € per year.

LOCATION: Chelsea FSS

SHIFT PATTERN: as required, 45 hours per week

SALARY: Competitive

If you require any additional support or adjustments during the recruitment process, please don't hesitate to contact our Recruitment Department. We're here to help!

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

We’re proud to offer a great range of benefits including:

  • 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
  • Search for resources and tools on topics ranging from family and life to health, money and work
  • Online chat or telephone service for urgent support in a crisis

For more information about ABM’s benefits, visit our website.

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.

Head of Security in London employer: ABM

ABM is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at the prestigious Chelsea Football Club estate, where you will lead a dedicated security team in ensuring safety and operational excellence. 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 to be part of a forward-thinking organisation committed to innovation and continuous improvement in a high-profile setting.

ABM

Contact Detail:

ABM Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Head of Security in London

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the security industry, especially those who have experience with high-profile environments. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.

Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by researching Chelsea FC and ABM's values. Show us how your leadership style aligns with their mission and how you can enhance their security operations. Tailor your responses to highlight your experience in managing large teams and event security.

Tip Number 3

Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the role.

Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and ready to take on the challenge of leading security at such a prestigious venue.

We think you need these skills to ace Head of Security in London

Operational Leadership
Stakeholder Management
Event Security Management
Team Management
Intelligence-led Security
Risk Management
Budget Management

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Head of Security role. Highlight your relevant experience in security leadership, especially in high-profile environments like stadiums or large events. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!

Showcase Your Leadership Skills:This role is all about leading teams and managing operations. Use your application to demonstrate your experience in people leadership and operational excellence. Share specific examples of how you've inspired and developed teams in the past.

Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your achievements and how they relate to the key responsibilities outlined in the job description. We appreciate clarity!

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 ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!

How to prepare for a job interview at ABM

Know Your Security Stuff

Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of security operations, especially in high-profile environments like stadiums. Be ready to discuss your experience with event security and how you've managed large teams in the past.

Showcase Your Leadership Skills

As a Head of Security, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you've inspired and developed teams, especially during high-pressure situations like matchdays or major events.

Understand Stakeholder Management

Familiarise yourself with the key stakeholders at Chelsea FC and how you can build strong relationships with them. Be prepared to discuss how you've effectively communicated and reported on performance in previous roles.

Be Ready for Scenario Questions

Expect questions about incident response and risk management. Think of specific scenarios where you've had to act quickly and decisively, and be ready to explain your thought process and the outcomes.