Security Manager

Sodexo; Chatham; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading service provider in the United Kingdom is seeking a Senior Security Manager to oversee campus security operations. You will lead a team, ensure safety protocols, manage incidents, and foster a culture of security within a vibrant university community. The ideal candidate will possess extensive security management experience and strong people management skills, along with the ability to build effective relationships. This role offers excellent benefits and career growth opportunities.

Benefits

26 days annual leave

Competitive salary

Unlimited access to mental health support

Employee Assistance Programme

24/7 access to virtual GP

Exclusive discounts through Sodexo Discounts Scheme

Mercer Aspire Pension Plan

Learning and development opportunities

Bike to Work Scheme

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in a senior security management role.
• Strong people management and performance leadership skills.
• Demonstrable experience in incident management and crisis response.

Responsibilities

• Lead oversight of all campus security operations.
• Manage incidents in line with policy and legislation.
• Identify and address emerging security risks.

Skills

Senior security management experience

Strong people management

Knowledge of security legislation

Incident management skills

Stakeholder management

Communication skills

IT literacy

Decision-making under pressure

Tools

Microsoft Office

Security technology platforms

Job description

Overview

At Sodexo, we believe exceptional experiences start with safety, trust, and people who care. At the University of Greenwich, we're looking for a Security Manager to take the helm of our multi‑campus security operation driving excellence, innovation, and a true “one team” spirit across Medway, Avery Hill, and Greenwich.

This is a role for someone who thrives on variety and purpose, one day leading strategy and compliance, the next working hands‑on with teams and partners to ensure our students, staff, and visitors feel secure and supported. You'll be the face of calm authority in a crisis, a trusted voice in shaping safety culture, and a driving force for continuous improvement. If you're ready to make a lasting impact in a vibrant university community; combining leadership, collaboration, and forward‑thinking security management, we'd love to hear from you.

Responsibilities

• Provide senior leadership and oversight of all campus security operations, ensuring incidents are managed effectively, proportionately, and in line with policy, legislation, and client expectations.
• Ensure Assignment Instructions, Standard Operating Procedures, and security documentation are regularly reviewed, kept up to date, and embedded across all teams.
• Identify and address emerging security risks and concerns, escalating strategically to client and Sodexo management with clear recommendations for action.
• Oversee the production and quality of all internal and external reports, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and value to stakeholders.
• Embed compliance with company, client, and statutory policies across all security activities, ensuring audit readiness at all times.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in a senior security management role, preferably within a multi‑site, complex environment.
• A strong people manager who fully understands HR processes and procedures.
• Comprehensive knowledge of security legislation, SIA regulations, GDPR, and relevant health & safety requirements.
• Proven track record of leading and developing security teams, with strong people management and performance leadership skills.
• Demonstrable experience in incident management, crisis response, and complex investigations, including liaison with police and statutory authorities.
• Strong stakeholder management skills, with the ability to build effective relationships at senior client and institutional levels.
• Commercial awareness, with experience of delivering services against KPI/SLA frameworks and contributing to cost efficiency.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to produce high‑quality reports and present to senior stakeholders.
• IT literate, confident with Microsoft Office, security technology platforms, and data analysis for risk reporting.
• High levels of integrity, professionalism, and personal resilience, able to remain calm and decisive under pressure.

Desirable

• First Aid at Work or equivalent qualification.
• Experience of working in a university, public sector, or similarly complex operational environment.
• Knowledge of counter‑terrorism measures and emergency preparedness planning.
• Experience of implementing security innovations, systems, or process improvements.

What You Can Expect

• 26 days annual leave excluding public holidays.
• A competitive salary and excellent benefits package.
• Opportunities for career growth and development.
• A diverse, supportive, and inclusive workplace.

Additional Perks & Benefits

• Unlimited access to an online mental health and wellbeing support platform.
• An Employee Assistance Programme for legal, financial, and personal support.
• 24/7 access to a virtual GP service.
• Exclusive discounts for you, your family, and friends through the Sodexo Discounts Scheme.
• Membership in the Mercer Aspire Pension Plan to help you save for your future.
• Learning and development opportunities to enhance your career growth.
• A Bike to Work Scheme, supporting both your fitness and the environment.

Ready to be part of something greater? If you're looking for an opportunity where you can bring your passion, skills, and ambition to a company that truly values you, then this is it. Apply today and take the next step in your Sodexo journey. Friendly customers. Vibrant communities. Exciting careers.

Please note: Sodexo reserves the right to close this advert early if we receive a high number of applications.