Health & Safety Manager

Job Title: Health & Safety Manager Reports To: Head of Technical and Compliance Location: Colchester CO6, Essex Salary : £40-50K Discretionary bonus, private medical insurance, 21 days holiday plus bank holidays Monday to Friday 7.30 a.m. to 4 p.m. About Us: Our client is a leading supplier of fresh produce to major retailers, wholesalers, restaurants and food manufacturers across the UK. Their operation is based on one site, and they have circa 340 employees. Role Overview: Our client is seeking an experienced and proactive Health and Safety Manager to oversee and ensure the effective implementation of workplace health, safety, and environmental policies. The ideal candidate will be responsible for maintaining compliance with all relevant legislation, promoting a strong safety culture, conducting risk assessments, and leading health and safety training initiatives across the business. You will be happy to take ownership of the Health and Safety agenda of the business and be the go-to person supporting all team members with Health and Safety matters. Key Responsibilities: * Develop, implement, and maintain Health and Safety policies, procedures, and safe systems of work in line with a best in class approach. * Ensure compliance with all local, national, and industry Health and Safety regulations and legalities. Keep the business updated with changes. * Conduct risk assessments and site inspections to identify potential hazards and implement appropriate controls and risk reduction measures. * Investigate incidents, accidents, and near misses, identifying root causes and work with the management team to implement corrective actions. * Complete RIDDOR reports and HSE investigations if required. * Deliver and coordinate Health and Safety training programs and develop clear and concise training materials for our training supervisors to use. * Maintain accurate records of incidents, audits, inspections, and training. * Ensure the availability and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE). * Manage Occupational Health referrals & employee assessment/reassessments. * Lead on emergency response planning. Managing emergency procedures (e.g. fire alarms) and emergency teams such as fire marshals & first aiders. * Liaise with regulatory bodies, contractors, and external auditors as needed. * Oversee the Health & Safety of contractors on site ensuring Risk Assessments and Method statements are in place, up to date and relevant. * Provide regular trending reports as requested on incidents and accidents on site. * Bring new techniques for improving health, safety and welfare to the attention of Management Team and the Directors * Promote a positive and proactive Health and Safety culture across the business. * Work towards obtaining ISO (phone number removed) (or similar) certification. Qualifications and Skills: * NEBOSH or equivalent Health and Safety qualification * Minimum of 2 years of experience in a Health and Safety role, preferably in a manufacturing or Fresh produce environment * Strong understanding of HSE legislation and risk management principles. * Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, a hands on team player. * Proven ability to influence and lead change in safety culture. * A keen eye and mind to find the practical solution, not just the textbook answer. * Happy to manage your own time and on work your own initiative. What They Offer: * Competitive salary and benefits package. * Opportunity to make a real impact in a rapidly growing business who are keen to be industry leaders for others to aspire to. * Opportunities to work with some of the biggest names in UK retail and food manufacturing. * A great summer party