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Security manager

Alternative titles for this job include Security operations manager

Security managers supervise the security workforce that protects an organisation's buildings and keeps staff and visitors safe.

Average salary (a year)

£25,000 Starter

to

£38,000 Experienced

Typical hours (a week)

37 to 40 a week

You could work

days / nights / weekends on a rota

How to become

Explore the different ways to get into this role.

How to become

You can get into this job through:

  • an apprenticeship
  • working towards this role
  • applying directly

Apprenticeship

You can apply to do a Security First Line Manager Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship, or Protective Security Adviser Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship.

These take around 2 years to complete and combine on-the-job training and time spent with a learning provider.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • experience in related work 

More Information

Work

You can start as a security officer and become a team supervisor. You can then move into security management through on-the-job training and promotion.

Direct Application

You can apply directly for security management jobs if you've got previous experience in the security industry. You'll also need a Security Industry Authority (SIA) licence.

Skills gained through experience of managing a team in organisations like the armed forces, police or prison service may also be useful.

More Information

Registration

Professional and industry bodies

You can join the International Professional Security Association for training and development opportunities.

What it takes

Find out what skills you’ll use in this role.

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

  • leadership skills
  • knowledge of public safety and security
  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • customer service skills
  • patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
  • the ability to monitor your own performance and that of your colleagues
  • the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
  • business management skills
  • to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Restrictions and Requirements

You'll need to:

You'll usually need a driving licence.

What you’ll do

Discover the day to day tasks you’ll do in this role.

What you'll do

Day-to-day tasks

As a security manager, you could:

  • manage a security team
  • monitor CCTV and alarms in a control room
  • assess risks and advise organisations on how to improve their security
  • co-ordinate responses to incidents
  • work with the police and other emergency services
  • organise security for events and VIP visits
  • develop and test security, evacuation and emergency plans
  • investigate security breaches to learn lessons
  • act as a keyholder for access to buildings and controlled areas

Working environment

You could work in an office, in a control room or visit sites.

You may need to wear a uniform.

Career path and progression

Look at progression in this role and similar opportunities.

Career path and progression

You could become an area security manager, with responsibility for offices, shops or other facilities across a region.

You might specialise as a consultant, advising businesses on certain types of security, for example close protection, anti-terror measures or conflict management.

You could also set up your own security recruitment agency, or work for companies that develop and sell security systems, like biometrics or surveillance equipment.

Current opportunities

Find apprenticeships, courses and jobs available near you.

Current opportunities

Apprenticeships In England

We can't find any apprenticeship vacancies in England for a security manager right now.

The Find an apprenticeship service can help you with your search, send alerts when new apprenticeships become available and has advice on how to apply.

Courses In England

Are you interested in becoming a security manager?

Search for training courses near you.

Jobs In the United Kingdom

The Find a job service can help you with your search for jobs and send alerts when new jobs become available.

Search further careers

Related careers

Skills assessment

Take an assessment to learn more about your skills and the careers that might suit you.

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