At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and implementation of cutting-edge security systems at UCL.
- Company: Join UCL, a leading university committed to safety and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 41 days holiday, pension scheme, gym access, and more.
- Other info: We value diversity and encourage underrepresented candidates to apply.
- Why this job: Shape the future of security in a dynamic, diverse environment.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in managing security systems and technical teams.
The predicted salary is between 65000 - 78000 £ per year.
At University College London, we are committed to creating a safe, inclusive and innovative environment that enables world-leading teaching, research and collaboration. With more than 50,000 students and staff across a rapidly evolving estate of over 240 buildings, UCL is one of the largest and most complex university environments in the UK. Our Campus Resilience & Security team plays a vital role in supporting the university community through the delivery of modern, resilient and customer-focused security services. As UCL continues to expand - including major capital developments and the growth of UCL East - we are investing in integrated, future-ready security infrastructure that supports operational excellence, sustainability and innovation across our estate.
This is an exciting opportunity to join a forward-thinking team at the heart of one of the world's leading universities and help shape the future of security systems across a dynamic and diverse organisation.
About the role
As Head of Security Systems, you will provide strategic and technical leadership for the design, implementation, maintenance and continuous improvement of UCL's physical and electronic security systems. Leading a specialist team and overseeing key service contracts, you will drive the development of integrated, scalable and future-proofed security solutions across the university estate. This includes access control, CCTV, alarms, smart card technologies, locks and keys, and the integration of enterprise-wide security platforms. You will work closely with Estates project teams, IT specialists, operational security colleagues and senior stakeholders to ensure security systems support UCL's long-term growth and evolving operational needs. The role will also play a key part in major infrastructure and capital projects, helping to establish technical standards, improve resilience and embed innovation across the estate.
This is a highly visible leadership role requiring a balance of strategic thinking, technical expertise, operational delivery and stakeholder engagement. You will also oversee the Security Systems Customer Service Desk and ensure the delivery of responsive, high-quality services to departments, staff and students across UCL.
About you
You will bring extensive experience managing security systems within a large, complex and operationally diverse environment, alongside a strong technical understanding of modern electronic security technologies and the IT infrastructure that supports them. An experienced leader, you will have a proven track record of managing technical teams, contracts, budgets and large-scale system implementations. You will be confident developing technical specifications, leading procurement and driving the integration and standardisation of security platforms across multiple sites. You will also be a collaborative and customer-focused professional, able to build strong relationships with stakeholders at all levels, from operational teams and project managers to senior leadership and external partners.
We are looking for someone who combines strategic vision with practical problem-solving ability - someone who is motivated by innovation, continuous improvement and delivering secure, resilient and future-ready environments that support a world-class university community.
What we offer
As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer some great benefits:
- 41 Days holiday (27 days annual leave, 8 bank holidays and 6 closure days)
- Additional 5 days' annual leave purchase scheme
- Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)
- Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan
- Relocation scheme for certain posts
- On-site gym
- Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
- Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service
- Discounted medical insurance
Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
As London's Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation, and we want our community to represent the diversity of the world's talent. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in UCL's workforce. These include people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds; disabled people; and for our Grade 9 and 10 roles, women.
Head of Security Systems in London employer: UCL
University College London is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises safety, innovation, and collaboration. With extensive benefits such as 41 days of holiday, a defined benefit pension scheme, and opportunities for professional growth, UCL fosters an environment where employees can thrive while contributing to the university's mission of excellence in education and research. Join our forward-thinking Campus Resilience & Security team and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of security systems within one of the UK's largest and most dynamic university settings.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Security Systems in London
✨Join Security Community Events
Dive into local security conferences and workshops. These events are goldmines for networking with industry professionals, and they often host recruiters looking for candidates for full-time roles like Head of Security Systems. Plus, you can showcase your passion and familiarity with the latest trends!
✨Connect with Industry Experts
Utilise platforms like LinkedIn to follow and connect with leaders in security services. Engage with their content; it shows your interest and can spark conversations that might lead to job opportunities at companies like UCL. Don’t hesitate to reach out and ask for insights or informational interviews!
✨Polish Your Online Presence
Make sure your online presence reflects your skills in security services – think certifications, relevant projects, or coursework. Share your expertise through blogs or posts discussing recent trends in security. This will make you stand out to employers searching for full-time Head of Security Systems candidates.
✨Directly Apply to UCL
Don’t forget to apply for the Head of Security Systems role directly through our website! It not only ensures that your application is seen by the right eyes but also demonstrates your enthusiasm for joining UCL.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Security Systems in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Certifications:When applying for a full-time position in security services, make sure to showcase any relevant certifications you have, like SIA or other security industry qualifications. This adds credibility and shows that you're serious about your career in this field.
Demonstrate Your Attention to Detail:In security roles, attention to detail is crucial. Use your CV and cover letter to provide examples of how you’ve noticed and addressed security vulnerabilities or hazards in past jobs. This will help us see your proactive approach to ensuring safety.
Tailor Your Experience:Don’t just list duties from previous jobs; instead, frame your experiences in a way that relates directly to the role at UCL. Whether that's managing a team, conducting risk assessments, or successfully maintaining safety protocols, make this relevant to what we do.
Share Your Availability and Flexibility:Full-time roles often require a degree of flexibility. Make sure to clearly state your availability in your application, especially if you can work various shifts. This shows us your readiness to adapt to the needs of the role at UCL.
How to prepare for a job interview at UCL
✨Know Your Security Protocols
In the security services field, it's crucial to familiarise yourself with the latest security protocols and technologies. Brush up on things like surveillance systems, access control, and emergency response procedures. You'll likely face technical questions, so having a couple of solid scenarios or case studies ready can really impress your interviewers at UCL.
✨Demonstrate Situational Awareness
Prepare to showcase your situational awareness skills. You might be put in hypothetical scenarios where you need to assess potential risks or respond to incidents. Practising how you’d handle these situations ahead of time can give you the confidence to articulate your thought process during the interview.
✨Emphasise Teamwork & Communication
Since security services often rely on effective teamwork and clear communication, be ready to share examples of how you’ve successfully collaborated in the past. Highlight any instances where you’ve had to relay critical information or work closely with other services – this is key for a role at UCL.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
You can expect a variety of behavioural interview questions focusing on your past experiences and how you've handled challenges. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers. Sharing specific examples from previous security roles or related jobs will help demonstrate your problem-solving abilities and reliability to the team at UCL.
