Head of HSE

The company

We are currently working with an established, values-led organisation operating within a complex, multi-channel environment that combines large-scale manufacturing with customer-facing operations. With a strong reputation for quality, ethics, and long-term thinking, the business has built a loyal workforce and a mature, well-embedded safety culture.

Currently undergoing a significant programme of transformation, the organisation is evolving its leadership structure and strengthening its governance, risk and compliance framework. Health, Safety and Environmental (HSE) standards are already well-developed, and this role represents an opportunity to bring fresh perspective, enhance existing systems, and support the next phase of growth and integration.

This is a rare opportunity to join a business where safety is genuinely valued, and where you can shape and influence the future direction of HSE at a strategic level.

The role

As Head of HSE, you will lead the development and delivery of a progressive, enterprise-wide HSE strategy across a diverse, multi-site operation. Acting as the senior subject matter expert, you will provide independent, commercially balanced advice to executive leadership, ensuring the highest standards of compliance, risk management and safety culture are maintained. 

Key aspects of the role include:

• Providing strategic leadership for HSE across manufacturing, operational and corporate environments
• Acting as the principal advisor to senior stakeholders, embedding HSE within the wider risk and governance framework
• Driving continuous improvement through data insight, performance analysis, and modern systems implementation
• Leading and developing the HSE team, building capability and succession while fostering accountability and engagement
• Strengthening reporting, governance and compliance frameworks, including the introduction of enhanced systems
• Partnering with leaders across the business to balance operational delivery with risk management
• Leading engagement with regulators, insurers and external stakeholders
• Championing a culture of innovation, continuous improvement and shared ownership of safety

The candidate

We are seeking a credible and experienced HSE leader who combines strategic thinking with strong operational understanding. You will be comfortable operating at senior level, influencing stakeholders, and navigating a complex, evolving environment.

You will bring:

• Significant HSE leadership experience within manufacturing or similarly complex environments
• A track record of embedding effective safety culture, systems and governance frameworks
• The ability to balance compliance with pragmatic, business-focused decision making
• Proven experience developing high-performing teams and building capability
• Strong stakeholder management skills, with the confidence to challenge and influence at executive level
• A collaborative, personable style with the ability to introduce change sensitively within an established culture
• Experience working within structured processes while adapting to evolving business needs
• Relevant HSE qualifications (e.g. NEBOSH Diploma or equivalent), with professional membership desirable