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- Tasks: Manage security and soft services for a world-renowned design museum.
- Company: The Design Museum, a global cultural destination in Kensington.
- Benefits: 25 days leave, flexible working, staff discounts, and development opportunities.
- Other info: Opportunity to work in a historic building with excellent career growth.
- Why this job: Join a team that champions design and sustainability in a vibrant environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in security or facilities management with strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ 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. 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
Estates Services Manager (Security and Soft Services) in Slough 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 Slough
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those connected to the Design Museum. A friendly chat can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the museum's recent exhibitions and initiatives. Show us you’re genuinely interested in their mission and how you can contribute to their vision.
✨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 be afraid to let your passion for design and service come across!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and 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 Slough
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 mention any relevant projects or achievements that showcase your skills.
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Clearly outline why you’re the perfect fit for this role at the Design Museum. Share your motivations and how your values align with their vision of design and sustainability.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since excellent communication is key for this role, make sure your application reflects that. Use clear, concise language and structure your documents well. This will demonstrate your attention to detail and professionalism.
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 people and stands out in the crowd!
How to prepare for a job interview at the Design Museum
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of security and soft services management. Brush up on your knowledge of CCTV systems, emergency response plans, and health and safety compliance. The more you know, the more confident you'll feel during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous roles in estates or facilities management. Highlight specific examples where you successfully managed contractors or improved operational efficiency. This will demonstrate your hands-on experience and proactive approach.
✨Communicate Clearly
Excellent communication is key for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Be ready to explain how you've effectively managed stakeholders and collaborated with teams in the past.
✨Align with Their Vision
Familiarise yourself with the Design Museum's mission and values. Think about how your commitment to sustainability and service aligns with their goals. Showing that you share their vision will make a strong impression.