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- Tasks: Lead security for the National Portrait Gallery, ensuring safety for staff, visitors, and collections.
- Company: Join the National Portrait Gallery, a cultural hub showcasing Britain's history through art.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary of £50,000 plus excellent benefits and a dynamic work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by shaping security culture in a prestigious institution while collaborating with diverse teams.
- Qualifications: Strong background in security management and leadership skills; museum experience is a plus but not required.
- Other info: Confidential discussions available with recruitment advisor; apply by 3rd August 2025.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 58000 £ per year.
Job Description
Senior Security Manager
£50,000 per annum (plus excellent benefits)
Protecting the nation’s stories through world-class security leadership.
The National Portrait Gallery tells the story of Britain through portraits, using art to bring history to life and explore the present. Home to the world’s greatest collection of portraits, they are committed to creating deeper connections with the nation’s stories and ensuring the safety of their people, visitors, and priceless collections.
We are seeking a Senior Security Manager to lead the Gallery’s security provision, ensuring the highest levels of protection for staff, visitors, and collections. This is a pivotal role within the Estates and Operations Directorate, reporting to the Head of Estates and Operations, and responsible for overseeing the Gallery’s Security Provider team and Security Systems Controller.
You will play a key role in shaping and delivering a proportionate and effective security culture, ensuring compliance with the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, and maintaining strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders including the Metropolitan Police and Counter Terrorism Security Advisors.
Some key responsibilities will include:
- Leading the strategic and operational delivery of all Gallery security and heritage protection planning.
- Managing the performance of the Security Provider and ensuring appropriate training and staffing levels.
- Supporting the development and implementation of security systems and procedures.
- Overseeing incident management, business continuity planning, and high-profile event security.
- Collaborating with colleagues across Estates, Visitor Experience, and Collections to ensure a seamless and secure visitor experience.
About you:
You will bring a strong background in security management, and have experience managing third-party security contracts, leading investigations, and delivering security projects. Your leadership, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills will be second to none, and you’ll be passionate about creating a safe and welcoming environment for all. Experience within the museum/heritage sector is desirable, but not essential.
Application process:
For a confidential discussion please contact our advisor Rob Cullum of The Management Recruitment Group at rob.cullum@mrgglobal.com. The Management Recruitment Group has been exclusively retained for this campaign. All direct and third-party applications will be forwarded to them.
Applications should consist of a up-to-date CV and supporting statement outlining your suitability and motivations for applying for this position.
The further particulars can be viewed here.
Closing date for applications is: 11:59pm on Sunday 3rd August 2025
Senior Security Manager employer: NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY
Contact Detail:
NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Security Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the National Portrait Gallery's mission and values. Understanding their commitment to protecting cultural heritage will help you align your experience and passion for security management with their goals during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the museum and heritage sector. Attend relevant events or join online forums to connect with individuals who can provide insights into the specific security challenges faced by institutions like the National Portrait Gallery.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with third-party security contracts and incident management. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully led security projects or improved safety protocols in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Research current trends and legislation related to security in public spaces, especially in museums. Being knowledgeable about the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 and its implications will demonstrate your commitment to compliance and proactive security measures.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Security Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before you start writing, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Senior Security Manager position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with their needs.
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement is crucial. Clearly outline your suitability for the role by providing specific examples of your past experiences in security management, particularly any relevant projects or leadership roles you've held.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasise your skills in stakeholder engagement, incident management, and compliance with security regulations. Mention any experience you have in the museum or heritage sector, as this could set you apart from other candidates.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, take the time to proofread your CV and supporting statement. Check for any spelling or grammatical errors, and ensure that your documents are well-structured and easy to read.
How to prepare for a job interview at NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY
✨Understand the Role Thoroughly
Before the interview, make sure you have a solid grasp of the responsibilities and expectations of the Senior Security Manager position. Familiarise yourself with the National Portrait Gallery's mission and how security plays a crucial role in protecting its collections and visitors.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As this role requires strong leadership, be prepared to discuss your previous experiences managing teams and projects. Highlight specific examples where your leadership made a significant impact on security outcomes or team performance.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in real-world security scenarios. Think about past incidents you've managed and be ready to explain your approach, decision-making process, and the results achieved.
✨Emphasise Stakeholder Engagement
The role involves collaboration with various stakeholders, including law enforcement. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully built relationships and communicated effectively with different parties in your previous roles.
