At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead SHEQ strategy and ensure compliance in the rail industry.
- Company: Dynamic rail subcontractor with a focus on safety and continuous improvement.
- Benefits: Competitive salary up to £90,000, hybrid working, and leadership opportunities.
- Other info: Join a senior leadership team and drive strategic initiatives across a workforce of 500+.
- Why this job: Shape safety culture and make a real impact in a pivotal leadership role.
- Qualifications: NEBOSH Diploma, CMIOSH, and proven SHEQ experience in rail.
The predicted salary is between 90000 - 90000 £ per year.
Are you an experienced, senior SHEQ professional who has worked within the rail industry? Do you possess a NEBOSH Diploma (or equivalent), CMIOSH, and ISEP Membership (Practitioner or Chartered)? Location: Colchester (hybrid) Salary: Up to £90,000 DOE
A rail subcontractor is seeking an experienced Head of SHEQ to join its senior leadership team. Reporting directly to the Managing Director, you would have responsibility for driving SHEQ strategy, ensuring compliance, and embedding a culture of safety and continuous improvement across the business.
The successful candidate will lead and manage all aspects of Safety, Health, Environment and Quality across a workforce of 500+ employees, supported by a small SHEQ team. You will play a key role in shaping business strategy, supporting operational delivery, and providing assurance to both clients and senior leadership. This is a pivotal position requiring a strong leader who can influence stakeholders at all levels, from site teams through to board level, ensuring the highest standards of compliance and performance are consistently achieved.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of the SHEQ strategy across the business
- Ensure compliance with Network Rail standards, company policies, and all relevant legislation
- Oversee implementation and management of ISO9001, ISO14001, ISO45001 and RISQS requirements
- Lead preparation for and delivery of Principal Contractor Licence audits
- Oversee the production and approval of Construction Phase Plans (CPPs), Work Package Plans (WPPs), Task Briefing Sheets (TBS), and Risk Assessments
- Manage accident and incident investigations, ensuring root cause analysis and corrective actions are implemented
- Conduct and oversee site audits, inspections, and assurance processes
- Maintain and manage supplier approval and assurance systems
- Produce management reports and present SHEQ updates to senior leadership and Board
- Lead, coach, and develop the SHEQ team, ensuring competence and succession planning
- Support wider business strategy as a key member of the senior leadership team
Essential:
- Proven experience in a senior SHEQ leadership role within rail
- Strong knowledge of Network Rail standards and UK health & safety legislation
- Demonstrable experience implementing and managing ISO management systems (9001, 14001, 45001)
- Experience leading CDM compliance and accident/incident investigations
- Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills
- Ability to manage budgets, analyse risk, and deliver accurate management information
Qualifications:
- NEBOSH Diploma / NCRQ / NVQ Level 5 (or equivalent)
- Chartered Member of IOSH (CMIOSH)
- ISEP Membership (Practitioner or Chartered)
Desirable:
- Lead Auditor qualification
- PTS and/or COSS certification
Head of SHEQ in Colchester employer: Carrington West
Carrington West is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment that prioritises employee growth and development. With a strong focus on improving residential environments in Harlow, team members benefit from competitive daily rates and the opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects that positively impact the community. The collaborative culture fosters innovation and supports professional advancement, making it an attractive place for experienced project managers looking to make a difference.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of SHEQ in Colchester
✨Join Compliance Communities
Get involved in compliance and risk communities — both online and offline. Look for forums, LinkedIn groups, or even local meetups where compliance pros hang out. You never know who might drop a job opportunity your way!
✨Attend Industry Conferences
Keep an eye out for compliance and risk management conferences and workshops in your area. These events are a goldmine for networking, and they often have job boards or recruiters on-site looking for new talent. Plus, it’s a chance to learn what's trending in the field.
✨Leverage Your University Career Services
If you’ve recently graduated or are still studying, head over to your university's career services. Many companies, including those in compliance, actively recruit fresh talent through these services, so make sure you tap into that resource.
✨Showcase Your Knowledge Online
Start writing articles or blog posts about compliance topics that interest you. Share them on platforms like LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and passion. This not only builds your presence in the field but can also catch the attention of companies like Carrington West looking for candidates who are engaged and informed.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of SHEQ in Colchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Understanding of Compliance:In the compliance-risk field, it's super important to showcase your understanding of regulations and risk management frameworks. Highlight any relevant coursework, certifications (like ICA or AML), or even projects that demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to this area. We want to see how you can navigate this complex landscape!
Quantify Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, try to quantify your achievements. For example, if you've previously worked on a project that improved compliance metrics or reduced risk exposure, give us the numbers! This data-driven approach really stands out to hiring managers in compliance-risk roles.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Relevant Skills:Make sure your CV highlights skills that are particularly relevant to compliance, like attention to detail, analytical thinking, and report writing. Ensure these are easy to spot – consider using bullet points to break down your responsibilities and achievements for maximum impact!
Craft a Motivating Cover Letter:In your cover letter, let us know why you’re excited about the compliance-risk role at Carrington West. Share what motivates you about compliance, and how you believe you can contribute to our mission. This is your chance to showcase not only your skills but also your passion for this important field!
How to prepare for a job interview at Carrington West
✨Master the Regulations
Brush up on key compliance regulations relevant to the industry you're applying to. Familiarising yourself with specific laws and frameworks used in your field will give you an edge during technical questions. Show that you’re not just aware of them but can also apply them—think real-life scenarios!
✨Show Your Analytical Skills
Compliance roles really focus on analytical skills, so be prepared for case studies or situational questions during the interview. We've got to demonstrate how we approach risk assessments or compliance audits, possibly drawing on examples from past experiences or university projects. Bring some thoughtful case scenarios to discuss!
✨Know Your Tools
Get comfortable with commonly used compliance software and tools. Familiarity with platforms like RSA or MetricStream can really impress during your interview, as it shows you're ready to hit the ground running. If you’ve had any experience with them, make sure to highlight that!
✨Align with Company Culture
Since it's a full-time position, show your long-term commitment and interest in the company’s mission and values. Dive into how your ethics and professional philosophy align with Carrington West’s stance on compliance. A shared vision can really resonate with interviewers looking for fit as much as skill!
