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- Tasks: Lead the British Museum's security strategy and oversee a 24/7 operation.
- Company: Join the iconic British Museum, a hub of culture and history.
- Benefits: Enjoy free exhibitions, generous leave, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on security while safeguarding priceless collections.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in security management and team leadership.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional growth and development.
The predicted salary is between 58162 - 58162 £ per year.
Full-time, 41 hours per week Monday – Friday with occasional weekend and bank holiday as required. On-site in Bloomsbury, London, with occasional work from home. Permanent contract. £58,162 per annum. Application deadline: 12pm (midday) on 29 April 2026.
About the role
As Head of Security, you will play a pivotal role in shaping and leading the British Museum's security strategy at a defining moment in our history. You will oversee the full physical security function across our global-scale estate, safeguarding our people, collections, buildings, and assets while ensuring that security is seamlessly integrated into an exceptional visitor experience. With responsibility for a 24/7 operation, you will strengthen our security culture, continuously develop our systems, and ensure we remain resilient and responsive as we evolve.
Key areas of responsibility
- Lead and evolve the Museum's physical security strategy, systems, and standards across a 24/7 operation.
- Act as the organisation's primary security expert, assessing threats, advising on major programmes and events, and developing risk-reduction plans.
- Inspire and develop a team of around 120 security professionals, ensuring high-quality training, strong leadership, and a culture of continuous improvement.
- Build and maintain trusted partnerships with internal stakeholders and external security bodies, law enforcement, and sector networks.
- Oversee incident management, crisis planning, and the effectiveness of technical security systems, ensuring robust compliance, reporting, and operational performance.
Benefits highlights
- Free exhibition entry for you and guests, exclusive private views, ICOM and reciprocal museum access.
- 25 days' annual leave plus bank holidays and 2.5 privilege days (and +5 days after 10 years).
- Discounts at onsite catering, museum shops and local Bloomsbury partners.
- Social and well-being perks including staff parties, social clubs, CSSC sports and leisure, and support from the Civil Service Retirement Fellowship.
- Peer support and allyship with five diversity networks for community.
- Learning and development through courses, mentoring and Athena as well as support for professional qualifications.
- Employee Assistance Programme available 24/7 for counselling, well-being support and more.
- Eyecare vouchers for VDU tests and contributions toward glasses.
- Enhanced parental leave including maternity, paternity, adoption and shared parental leave.
- Support for carers through Employers for Carers.
- Civil Service Pension Scheme with a secure, inflation-linked defined benefit.
- Interest-free loans including season ticket, rental deposit and bicycle loans.
Our values
- Care Deeply
- Embrace the Unknown
- Spark Curiosity
- Value Many Voices
We may be able to provide visa sponsorship for this role, subject to meeting eligibility requirements.
Head of Security employer: British Museum
Contact Detail:
British Museum Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Security
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the British Museum on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost our chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the museum's recent security initiatives. We want to show that we’re not just interested in the role but also passionate about their mission and values.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions related to security management. We should be ready to discuss our experience with crisis planning and team leadership, as these are key for the Head of Security role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows we’re serious about joining the team.
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 experience in security management. We want to see how your skills align with our mission at the British Museum, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As the Head of Security, you'll be leading a team of around 120 professionals. Use your application to demonstrate your leadership style and any previous successes in developing teams. We love to see examples of how you've inspired others!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your key points stand out. Avoid jargon unless it's relevant to the role – we want to understand your experience without getting lost in technical terms.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it helps us keep everything organised!
How to prepare for a job interview at British Museum
✨Know the Security Landscape
Familiarise yourself with current security trends and challenges, especially those relevant to museums and cultural institutions. This will not only show your expertise but also demonstrate your commitment to staying ahead in the field.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in high-pressure situations. Highlight your ability to inspire and develop others, as this role requires strong leadership to manage a large team of security professionals.
✨Understand the Visitor Experience
Think about how security can enhance rather than hinder the visitor experience. Be ready to discuss strategies that integrate security seamlessly into the museum environment while ensuring safety and compliance.
✨Build Relationships
Emphasise your experience in building partnerships with internal and external stakeholders. Prepare to discuss how you would collaborate with law enforcement and other security bodies to strengthen the museum's security posture.