At a Glance
- 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.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a dynamic and inspiring setting.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that ensures safety and excellence in a creative 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) Thomas Power at the Design Museum in Slough employer: the Design Museum
The Design Museum is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that champions creativity and innovation in the heart of Kensington. With a commitment to employee growth through development opportunities and a competitive benefits package, including flexible working arrangements and generous leave, the museum fosters a supportive environment where staff can thrive while contributing to a globally recognised institution dedicated to the transformative power of design.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Estates Services Manager (Security and Soft Services) Thomas Power at the Design Museum 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 and give you insights that a job description just can't.
✨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.
✨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 shows you're keen and makes it easier for us to track your application. Plus, you'll get updates directly from us!
We think you need these skills to ace Estates Services Manager (Security and Soft Services) Thomas Power at the Design Museum in Slough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling CV:Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Highlight your relevant experience in security and facilities management, and don’t forget to showcase any achievements that demonstrate your proactive approach.
Write a Strong Supporting Statement:This is your chance to shine! Use your supporting statement to explain why you’re the perfect fit for the Estates Services Manager role. Be sure to connect your skills and experiences to the key responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application. Tailor your CV and supporting statement to reflect the specific requirements of the Design Museum. Show us that you understand their vision and how you can contribute to it!
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 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 not just interested in the role but also passionate about the industry.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles where you've successfully managed security systems or external contractors. Highlight any instances where you improved operational efficiency or enhanced safety measures. This will demonstrate your hands-on experience and problem-solving skills.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since excellent communication is key for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Be ready to discuss how you've effectively managed stakeholders in previous positions. This will help convey your ability to work collaboratively with internal teams and external partners.
✨Emphasise Sustainability
Given the Design Museum's commitment to sustainability, be prepared to discuss your experience with environmental best practices. Share any initiatives you've led or been part of that focused on waste reduction or sustainability in facilities management. This will align your values with those of the museum.
