Close Protection Officer

CLOSE PROTECTION OFFICER – TEAM LEADER

Location: Carrington Training Complex

At Manchester United, we believe that excellence on the pitch starts with excellence off the pitch. Our team thrives in a high-performance environment, united by a shared passion for success. We aim to elevate the standard of performance through collaboration and continuous growth, creating a space where everyone can contribute their best to our common goals.

We work together at our iconic Manchester United offices, enabling connection and innovation as we look ahead to what we can achieve as a global football club. We are excited to bring in passionate people who share our vision and drive for success.

The Role:

To ensure the personal safety and security of Manchester United’s high-profile individuals including players, executives, and guests, both on and off-site. The role requires the delivery of professional, discreet, and effective close protection in a dynamic and often high-pressure environment, in alignment with the club’s values and brand.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Manage and deliver the Club’s Team Protection Program. Work closely with internal departments and external stakeholders to establish travel plans, assess security requirements, and plan accordingly.
2. Travel with the Men’s Team as the Protection lead for all domestic and European fixtures.
3. Plan and deliver the Security & Protection Operation for Pre-Season Tour.
4. Manage the administration of casual team protection officers, including availability, roster, equipment, and pay.
5. Provide physical protection and risk mitigation for designated principals, including travel planning, route reconnaissance, and venue assessments.
6. Conduct dynamic risk assessments and maintain situational awareness in real-time.
7. Collaborate with club security, venue staff, law enforcement, and external agencies to ensure seamless protection operations.
8. Maintain confidentiality and discretion at all times, upholding the highest standards of professionalism.
9. Travel nationally and internationally, ensuring secure transportation and accommodation arrangements.
10. Support the safety and security team with event security and operational planning at Old Trafford, Carrington (training ground), and during away fixtures.
11. Remain alert to current threats, intelligence reports, and social media activity relevant to the protection of assigned individuals.
12. Assist in training and mentoring junior security staff as needed.
13. Maintain detailed logs and reports of protective movements, incidents, and relevant observations.

The Person:

We are looking for someone who has:

Essential Qualifications & Experience:

• SIA Close Protection License (in date)
• Enhanced DBS (able to attain it)
• Valid UK Driving License (clean preferred)
• Proven experience in close protection roles, preferably within high-profile or sports environments
• Minimum Level 3 Medical qualification such as FREC or FROS certification
• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends, evenings, and travel abroad
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Excellent situational awareness and threat identification
• Demonstrated discretion and ability to handle confidential information

Desirable Attributes:

• National Police Protection Course or Royal Military Police Close Protection Course
• Level 5+ academic qualification in Security Management
• Professional Security qualifications (CPP, PSP, CSMP)
• Knowledge of Football
• Knowledge / experience of Travel Risk Management
• Knowledge / experience of Information Security Management
• Police or Military advanced driving qualification
• Familiarity with football culture and the dynamics of large crowd events

Personal Attributes:

• Highly professional and calm under pressure
• Discreet, loyal, and trustworthy
• Physically fit and able to respond quickly to dynamic situations
• Strong team player but also self-motivated
• Culturally aware and respectful

What We Offer:

At Manchester United, we recognise that our people are at the heart of our success. That’s why we offer a range of rewards designed to support your professional and personal well-being:

• Annual incentive scheme
• Wellness Support with access to mental health resources, digital health checks, and nutritionists through Aviva Digicare+ Workplace
• Exclusive Discounts through our United Rewards platform, giving you access to exclusive deals from the club and partners
• Gym Facilities in our onsite locations and opportunities for regular social events and team-building activities
• Enhanced family Leave Benefits and an opportunity to purchase additional holiday days
• Enhanced Career Development with access to professional learning platforms like LinkedIn Learning, and internal training programs
• A Supportive Work Environment that values diversity, equity and inclusion, and individual growth

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