Job Title: Emergency Planning Manager

Salary: Up to £53,000 per annum

Reporting To: Deputy Head of Security and Emergency Planning

Location: Westminster Abbey, London

Job Summary

Capstone have partnered with Westminster Abbey, who are seeking an experienced and proactive Emergency Planning Manager to enhance their emergency preparedness. This newly created role will focus on developing and implementing robust emergency planning procedures, coordinating training exercises, and ensuring resilience across all operations.

As a specialist in emergency planning and business continuity, you will provide expert advice, deliver training, and maintain strong relationships with key internal and external stakeholders. This is an exciting opportunity to shape and evolve a critical function within a historic and high-profile environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Evaluate, develop, and implement best-in-class emergency planning procedures, including salvage plans for historic objects and evacuation, invacuation, and lockdown protocols.
• Organise and deliver annual emergency planning exercises to test and refine resilience strategies, working closely with external partners such as local authorities, emergency services, and neighbouring organisations.
• Establish and maintain a network of professional contacts to stay updated on best practices and ensure alignment with industry standards.
• Provide specialist training to staff, residents, and volunteers on emergency procedures, including personal evacuation plans and emergency protocols.
• Oversee emergency communication channels and equipment, working with the Communications & Digital Department to ensure clear and effective messaging in times of crisis.
• Assist in departmental management tasks, including staff scheduling, duty rotas, and timesheet coordination, to enhance operational resilience, particularly during major events.
• Support additional responsibilities as required, such as road closure messaging and event accreditation management.

Person Specification

Essential Skills & Attributes:

• Ability to work independently to deadlines and manage multiple priorities.
• Strong organisational skills with keen attention to detail.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, capable of influencing key stakeholders at all levels.
• Proven ability to build effective working relationships with both internal teams and external partners.
• Financial management skills, ensuring cost-effective solutions and value for money.
• Competency in using Microsoft Office applications and other relevant software tools.

Essential Knowledge & Experience:

• A relevant professional qualification such as ISO 22301 certification or Business Continuity Professional accreditation.
• Proven experience in emergency planning and business continuity within a complex organisation.
• Experience in risk assessment and mitigation in high-profile or sensitive environments.

Personal Attributes:

• Proactive and solutions-focused with a problem-solving mindset.
• Highly organised, methodical, and accurate.
• Self-motivated and able to work both independently and collaboratively.
• Calm and composed under pressure, particularly in challenging or emergency situations.
• Understanding of and respect for the unique challenges of working within a high-profile religious and historic setting.

Desirable Criteria:

• Experience working in a major historic environment, particularly within a place of worship or a culturally significant site.

This role offers a unique opportunity to shape emergency preparedness within one of the most historic and prestigious sites in the UK. If you have the expertise and passion to drive resilience in a complex environment, we encourage you to apply.

Please contact Sam Lee on 020 3757 5000 or email s.lee@capstone-recruitment.com for more information.