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- Tasks: Lead security operations and ensure safety for staff, visitors, and priceless collections.
- Company: Join the National Portrait Gallery, a hub of British history and art.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary of £50,000 plus excellent benefits.
- Why this job: Shape a secure environment while connecting people with Britain's rich stories.
- Qualifications: Strong background in security management and leadership skills required.
- Other info: Experience in the museum sector is a plus but not essential.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 70000 £ per year.
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 . 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 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 and collaborated with stakeholders to enhance safety.
✨Tip Number 4
Research current trends and legislation related to security in public spaces, particularly in museums. Being knowledgeable about the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 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: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the key responsibilities and requirements of the Senior Security Manager position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with these specific needs.
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement should clearly outline your suitability for the role. Use specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your leadership, communication skills, and ability to manage security effectively.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Make sure to emphasise any relevant experience you have in security management, particularly in overseeing third-party contracts or working within the museum/heritage sector. This will help you stand out as a strong candidate.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and supporting statement for any errors or typos. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in a security management role.
How to prepare for a job interview at NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Senior Security Manager. Familiarise yourself with security management principles, especially in a museum or heritage context, and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with these.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
This role requires strong leadership abilities. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led teams, managed third-party contracts, or implemented security projects. Highlight your communication skills and how you've engaged stakeholders effectively.
✨Know the Legislation
Brush up on relevant legislation such as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025. Be prepared to discuss how you would ensure compliance and what measures you would implement to protect both people and collections.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills in high-pressure situations. Think about past incidents you've managed and how you would handle various security challenges, particularly in a gallery or public space.
