Head of Security

The Head of Security at RBG Kew is the strategic lead for physical security, overseeing our security operations, security risk management, and incident response. This engaging and rewarding opportunity will be pivotal in ensuring the highest standards of security across our multiple iconic and captivating locations, including Kew Gardens in Richmond and Wakehurst in Sussex, as well as remotely supporting Kew’s Conservation Centre in Madagascar (KMCC). Each of these sites are both diverse and complex, and the wide-ranging role will help to ensure the safety and security of our visitors, staff, historic buildings, and our living and rare collections.

To succeed in this role, you will have proven experience of leading security operations both operationally and strategically, and will be highly skilled as a leader and communicator. You will have demonstrable experience of leading physical security strategy in public settings, alongside planning and delivering of security operations, risk assessment, and crisis management. We are looking for passionate and inspiring leaders capable of demonstrating both ambition and care as they lead their teams, and who work as team players across all levels of the organisation.

Knowledge of relevant physical security legislation will be invaluable in this role, keeping abreast of upcoming changes and developments such as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2024. Qualifications or accreditations in security operations, security management, and risk management are desirable, though not essential. This opportunity is being advertised for a fixed term of two years. Appointment to the role is also subject to enhanced DBS clearance. Interviews are currently planned for the week commencing Monday 14th April 2025. This role is predominantly site-based with working time divided across both our Kew and Wakehurst sites, however there will also be the capability for some remote working subject to operational requirements.

About Us

The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (RBG Kew) is a leading plant science institute, UNESCO World Heritage Site, and major visitor attraction. Our mission is to understand and protect plants and fungi for the well-being of people and the future of all life on Earth. We are working to end the unprecedented extinction crisis and to help create a world where nature is protected, valued by all and managed sustainably. We will achieve these goals by drawing on our leading scientific research, unrivalled collections of plants and fungi, global network of partners, inspirational gardens at Kew and Wakehurst, and our 260 years of history. Join us on our journey as protectors of the world’s plants and fungi.

Our fantastic benefits package includes opportunities for continuous learning, a generous annual leave entitlement, flexible working to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance, an Employee Assistance Programme and other wellbeing support such as a cycle to work scheme and discounted gym membership. We also offer a competitive pension, an employee discount scheme, and free entry into a wide range of national museums and galleries, as well as access to our own beautiful gardens at Kew and Wakehurst. We are dedicated to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We are committed to interview disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the post.