Estates Services Manager (Security and Soft Services)

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