OR103472 – Building Safety Manager

Lambeth Council owns and manages a significant portfolio of social housing, including higher-risk residential buildings (HRB). Ensuring that residents are safe — and feel safe — in their homes is a top priority. The council is committed to meeting its obligations under the Building Safety Act 2022, the Fire Safety Act 2021 and the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 to help deliver safe, well-managed homes that comply with all statutory requirements. The Fire & Building Safety team leads on ensuring robust safety management systems across the housing stock, fostering a culture of accountability, resident engagement and continuous improvement in building safety standards.

Job Purpose

To provide professional leadership and assurance in the management of building safety for Lambeth Council’s HRBs. The post holder will ensure full compliance with relevant legislation, including the Building Safety Act 2022, the Fire Safety Act 2021 and the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, along with associated statutory guidance. They will develop, maintain and monitor Building Safety Cases and Building Safety Case Reports, coordinate resident engagement on safety matters and act as a key point of contact between internal departments, residents and external regulators. The Building Safety Manager will work collaboratively across the organisation to embed a proactive culture of safety, transparency and continuous improvement, ensuring that all buildings under their oversight remain safe for occupation.

Responsibilities

• Lead the operational management of building safety for designated HRBs within the council’s housing stock.
• Oversee compliance with the Building Safety Act 2022, Fire Safety Act 2021, the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and the Fire Safety (Residential Evacuation Plans) (England) Regulations 2025, ensuring that statutory duties are fully discharged.
• Build, maintain and review Building Safety Cases and Building Safety Case Reports, ensuring accurate documentation, up-to-date records and evidence of effective control measures.
• Undertake and coordinate regular building inspections, reviews, assessments and audits relating to structural and fire & building safety.
• Work with the Fire & Building Safety Manager, Head of Fire & Building Safety and other stakeholders to identify and mitigate building safety risks.
• Develop and implement building safety management systems and procedures in line with statutory requirements and best practice.
• Coordinate with the Housing, Asset Management and Repairs teams to ensure safety related actions are prioritised and completed.
• Promote and facilitate resident engagement, providing clear and accessible information about safety measures, responsibilities and performance.
• Undertake or oversee minor physical works to improve building safety – such as installing or upgrading fire safety signage, information displays or wayfinding systems in accordance with regulatory requirements.
• Oversee procurement and delivery of major building safety works – including fire safety, façade, life safety systems and structural upgrades in higher-risk buildings (HRBs).
• Act as a key liaison with the Building Safety Regulator and London Fire Brigade, ensuring timely submissions, responses and compliance with statutory requirements.
• Chair and attend relevant internal and external meetings relating to building and fire safety, ensuring effective communication and follow-up actions.
• Coach and mentor Housing Officers and other relevant staff, enhancing their understanding and implementation of building safety responsibilities.
• Provide professional advice and guidance to colleagues and senior managers on all aspects of fire and building safety compliance.
• Support the council’s wider compliance programmes and contribute to strategic planning and improvement initiatives.
• Maintain up to date knowledge of legislation, standards and best practice in fire and building safety management.

Person Specification

To support the Principal Accountable Person, successful candidates will need to demonstrate their competence. PAS 8673 outlines the expected skills, knowledge, experience and behaviours for those managing HRBs.

Key Knowledge

• Comprehensive understanding of the Building Safety Act 2022, Fire Safety Act 2021, and the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, and their application in social housing.
• Knowledge of safety case principles, building control processes and housing health and safety compliance.
• Strong understanding of resident engagement requirements and the role of the Building Safety Regulator.
• Aware of local authority governance, social housing management and regulatory frameworks.

Relevant Experience

• Proven experience (minimum 3 years) in fire and building safety, housing compliance or a related field.
• Experience of developing, managing and reviewing Building Safety Case Reports and other compliance documentation.
• Demonstrate ability to coordinate multi-disciplinary teams and drive safety improvements.
• Experience of engaging with residents and stakeholders on safety and compliance matters.
• Experience of mentoring or supporting operational housing teams in compliance or safety management.

Qualifications

• CIOB Level 6 Diploma in Building Safety Management (or working towards).
• Health & Safety.
• Evidence of continued professional development in fire and building safety management.

Professional Memberships

• Institute of Building (CIOB).
• Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH).
• Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE).
• Institute of Fire Safety Managers (IFSM).
• Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).
• Or other relevant professional organisations associated with building, fire, or safety management.

Core Values and Behaviours

• Listen to and respect the views of others, ensuring all voices are heard.
• Promote fairness, inclusivity and transparency in all decisions.
• Take accountability for delivering on commitments and maintaining trust.
• Foster collaboration across teams and with residents to achieve shared goals.
• Encourage learning, development and continuous improvement.
• Act as a role model for integrity, compassion and professional excellence.