An exciting opportunity to join the Security Services Team as the Personnel Security Manager, leading delivery of personnel security services for UK Personnel base in the UK and overseas. The role manages specialist teams responsible for vetting, screening and access control, ensuring the highest standards of security.
Salary: Circa £60,000 depending on experience.
Dynamic (hybrid) working: typically, 2 days per week on-site due to workload classification.
Security Clearance: Sole British Citizen only.
Restrictions and/or limitations relating to nationality and/or rights to work may apply. As a minimum and after offer stage, all successful candidates will need to undergo HMG Basic Personnel Security Standard checks (BPSS), which are managed by the MBDA Personnel Security Team. You will already hold, or be willing to obtain, a security clearance.
What we can offer you:
- Company bonus: Bonus of up to 21% of base salary.
- Pension: maximum total (employer and employee) contribution of up to 14%.
- Flexible working: We welcome applicants who are looking for flexible working arrangements.
- Enhanced parental leave: offers up to 26 weeks for maternity, adoption and shared parental leave -enhancements are available for paternity leave, neonatal leave and fertility testing and treatments.
- Facilities: Fantastic site facilities including subsidised meals, free car parking and much more.
- Healthcare Cash Plan: The Healthcare Cash Plan allows you to claim cash back on everyday healthcare expenses such as optical, dental, health and wellbeing.
As subject matter expert, you will advise senior stakeholders on various aspects relating to security management and support the daily operations of a large defence company.
Responsibilities
- Oversee all personnel security processes – from BPSS to national security vetting (CTC, SC, DV) – ensuring timely, accurate and compliant clearances for all UK staff and contractors.
- Identify potential personnel security risks and provide advice on risks, policies and casework.
- Maintain compliance with GDPR and national security standards through robust quality assurance and effective system management.
- Build and maintain key partnerships across government and law enforcement, including Cabinet Office, MOD and Home Office.
- Lead recruitment, development and performance management of your teams, driving continuous improvement.
- Deputise for senior leadership, contributing to security strategy, governance and operational delivery.
Qualifications and Experience
You will bring experience in personnel security management, ideally with knowledge of HMG National Security Vetting standards. With NPSA (formerly CPNI) training, you will have a thorough understanding of national vetting policy and associated risks. As a proven people leader, you will know how to motivate and manage multi‑disciplinary teams, guiding others effectively when priorities and pace change during busy times.
Experienced in managing vetting cases, appeals and aftercare, you will understand security clearance processes from BPSS through to DV. With sound knowledge of data protection and national security legislation, you will apply policy to practice effectively.
What we’re looking for from you
Essential criteria:
- Experience managing and leading a team in a fast‑paced, security‑sensitive environment.
- Knowledge and practical application of the UKSV vetting process and procedures.
- Knowledge of the MOD Industry Personnel Security Assurance framework and accreditation.
- Understanding of Government Functional Standard GovS007‑Security.
- Proficiency in IT systems related to vetting and security management, inc good knowledge in using Microsoft office.
- Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and safeguarding sensitive data.
- A proactive and flexible approach to work, with a focus on continuous improvement and customer service.
Desirable criteria:
- Previous experience working specifically within an MOD contractor environment or similar high‑security government or defence settings.
- Formal qualifications or training in business administration, security management, vetting, or risk assessment.
- Experience liaising with external agencies or government departments on security and vetting matters.
Our company
MBDA is a leading defence organisation. We proudly support the Armed Forces who protect our nations. We partner with governments to defend our freedom.
We champion diversity through employee‑led networks such as Gender Equality, Pride, Menopause Matters, Parents and Carers, Armed Forces, Ethnic Diversity, Neurodiversity, Disability and more.
We recognise that everyone is unique, and we encourage you to speak to us should you require any advice, support or adjustments throughout our recruitment process.
