At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead personnel security services and manage specialist teams for vetting and access control.
- Company: Join MBDA, a leading defence organisation supporting the Armed Forces.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, company bonus, flexible working, and enhanced parental leave.
- Other info: Dynamic hybrid working environment with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on national security while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in personnel security management and knowledge of UK vetting processes required.
The predicted salary is between 57000 - 63000 £ per year.
An exciting opportunity to join our Security Services Team as the Personnel Security Manager, you'll lead and oversee the delivery of personnel security services for UK Personnel base in the UK and overseas, managing specialist teams responsible for vetting, screening and access control, you'll ensure we maintain 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'll 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 benefit provides the option to claim cash back on everyday healthcare expenses such as optical, dental, health and wellbeing and more.
As subject matter expert, you'll advise senior stakeholders on various aspects relating to security management and be crucial support for the busy daily operations of a large defence company. You will also lead and develop the Personnel Security, Screening and Aftercare teams, ensuring high standards of service and a collaborative working environment.
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, as well as provide advice when needed 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.
You'll bring experience in personnel security management, ideally with knowledge of HMG National Security Vetting standards. With NPSA (formerly CPNI) training, you'll have a thorough understanding of national vetting policy and associated risks. As a proven people leader, you'll 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'll understand security clearance processes from BPSS through to DV. With sound knowledge of data protection and national security legislation, you'll 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, including 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: Peace is not a given, Freedom is not a given, Sovereignty is not a given. MBDA is a leading defence organisation. We are proud of the role we play in supporting the Armed Forces who protect our nations. We partner with governments to work together towards a common goal, defending our freedom.
We are proud of our employee-led networks, examples include: 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.
Follow us on LinkedIn (MBDA), X (@MBDA_UK), Instagram (MBDA_UK) and Glassdoor or visit our MBDA Careers website for more information.
Personnel Security Manager in Stevenage employer: MBDA
At MBDA, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic hybrid working environment that fosters flexibility and work-life balance. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through our comprehensive training programmes and supportive networks, ensuring that every team member can thrive in their role while contributing to the vital mission of national security. With competitive benefits including a generous bonus scheme, enhanced parental leave, and excellent site facilities, MBDA stands out as a rewarding place to build a meaningful career in the defence sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Personnel Security Manager in Stevenage
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees on LinkedIn, especially those in security roles. They can give you insider info about the company culture and maybe even refer you for the Personnel Security Manager position.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of UKSV vetting processes and MOD security standards. We want to see that you’re not just familiar with the basics but can also discuss how you’d apply them in real scenarios.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully managed teams in high-pressure environments. We love candidates who can motivate others and drive continuous improvement.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to highlight your commitment to confidentiality and data protection. Given the sensitive nature of the role, we need to know you take these responsibilities seriously. Make sure to mention any relevant training or experience!
We think you need these skills to ace Personnel Security Manager in Stevenage
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in personnel security management. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As a Personnel Security Manager, you'll be leading teams. So, don’t forget to mention your experience in managing and motivating teams in your application. We want to see how you can drive continuous improvement!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to read through your qualifications and experiences. We appreciate clarity!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our careers page. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at MBDA
✨Know Your Security Standards
Familiarise yourself with the HMG National Security Vetting standards and the MOD Industry Personnel Security Assurance framework. Being able to discuss these in detail will show your expertise and understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in fast-paced, security-sensitive environments. Highlight your ability to motivate and manage multi-disciplinary teams, especially during busy times.
✨Understand the Vetting Process
Brush up on the UKSV vetting process and procedures. Be ready to explain your experience managing vetting cases, appeals, and aftercare, as well as your knowledge of data protection legislation.
✨Build Relationships
Demonstrate your ability to build and maintain partnerships across government and law enforcement. Share any experiences you have liaising with external agencies or departments on security matters, as this is crucial for the role.
