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- Tasks: Manage security and soft services for a world-renowned design museum.
- Company: Join the Design Museum, a global cultural destination in Kensington.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days leave, flexible working, and staff discounts.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that ensures safety and enhances visitor experiences.
- Qualifications: Experience in security or facilities management with strong communication skills.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a dynamic and creative environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
The Design Museum is one of the world’s leading museums dedicated to contemporary design in all its forms, from architecture and fashion to graphics, product and industrial design. Founded by Sir Terence Conran in 1989, the museum has grown from a pioneering gallery in the basement of the V&A to a global cultural destination welcoming over a million visitors annually. Their vision is bold: a world in which design enables this planet and its inhabitants to thrive. As a registered charity, the Design Museum champions the transformative potential of design through exhibitions, learning programmes and partnerships that inspire, challenge and empower.
MRG are delighted to be partnering with the Design Museum to appoint an Estates Services Manager, a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth operation and security of the Design Museum’s iconic Grade II* listed building in Kensington. Reporting to the Head of Estates, this hands‑on position oversees the delivery of security and soft services, ensuring a safe, clean and welcoming environment for staff and visitors.
Key responsibilities include:
- Managing security operations and systems, including CCTV, alarms and access control, in collaboration with contracted service partners.
- Overseeing soft services contracts such as cleaning, waste management and pest control, ensuring high standards and cost-effective delivery.
- Developing and implementing emergency response plans and supporting business continuity.
- Working closely with internal teams to support exhibitions, commercial events and front‑of‑house operations.
- Monitoring health and safety compliance, conducting risk assessments and implementing measures to mitigate risks.
- Supporting sustainability initiatives, including waste reduction and environmental best practice.
About you:
You’ll bring demonstrable experience in security, estates or facilities management, with strong technical knowledge and a proactive, detail‑oriented approach. You will have experience managing external contractors and delivering operational excellence in a high‑footfall environment. Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills are essential, alongside a commitment to safety, service and sustainability.
The Design Museum offers a competitive benefits package, including:
- 25 days annual leave (plus bank holidays and Christmas Eve)
- Defined contribution pension scheme (8% total contributions)
- Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
- Season ticket and tenancy deposit loans
- Cycle to work scheme
- Free entry to UK museums and galleries
- Staff discounts and development opportunities
- Enhanced maternity and paternity leave
- Employee assistance programme
Application process:
For a confidential discussion, please contact our advisor Rob Cullum of The Management Recruitment Group. The Management Recruitment Group has been exclusively retained for this campaign. All direct and third‑party applications will be forwarded to them.
Further information can be found by viewing the candidate pack.
Applications should consist of an up‑to‑date CV and a supporting statement outlining your suitability and motivations for applying for this position.
Closing date for applications: Sunday 1st February 2026
1st Stage interview (on site): Friday 13th February 2026
Seniority level: Mid‑Senior level
Employment type: Full‑time
Job function: Management, Customer Service, and Art/Creative
Industries: Museums, Historical Sites, and Zoos
Estates Services Manager (Security and Soft Services) in England employer: the Design Museum
Contact Detail:
the Design Museum Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Estates Services Manager (Security and Soft Services) in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those connected to the Design Museum. Attend events or exhibitions where you can meet potential colleagues and make a lasting impression.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the museum's recent exhibitions and initiatives. Show us that you're genuinely interested in their mission and how your skills can contribute to their vision of design excellence.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, but keep it natural. We want to see your personality shine through, so don’t just recite rehearsed answers—be yourself!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother process. It shows you're serious about the role and makes it easier for us to track your application. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step!
We think you need these skills to ace Estates Services Manager (Security and Soft Services) in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Estates Services Manager role. Highlight your experience in security and facilities management, and don’t forget to showcase any relevant projects or achievements that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Clearly outline why you’re the perfect fit for this position. Mention your motivations for applying and how your skills can contribute to the Design Museum’s vision.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since excellent communication is key for this role, make sure your application reflects your ability to convey ideas clearly. Use straightforward language and structure your statements logically to demonstrate your communication prowess.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right hands and stands out in the crowd!
How to prepare for a job interview at the Design Museum
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of security operations and soft services. Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in facilities management, especially in high-footfall environments like museums. This will show that you're proactive and detail-oriented, just what they’re looking for!
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles where you've successfully managed external contractors or improved operational excellence. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, making it easy for the interviewers to see your impact.
✨Communicate Effectively
Since excellent communication skills are essential for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Think about how you can convey complex information simply, especially when discussing health and safety compliance or emergency response plans.
✨Align with Their Vision
The Design Museum champions sustainability and transformative design. Be ready to discuss how your values align with theirs and share any relevant initiatives you've been involved in. This will demonstrate your commitment to their mission and show that you’re a great cultural fit.
