Head of Health and Safety Services - Durham
Job Title : Head of Health and Safety Services
Department : Estates and Facilities
Accommodation and Commercial Services
Grade: Grade 9
Salary range: £59,966-£67,468
Working arrangements: Permanent
Nominal 35 hours per week
Hybrid working (minimum of three days per week onsite, subject to business demands)
There may be a requirement to work evenings and weekends, as business demands.
There may be a requirement for the post-holder to participate in local on-call arrangements, as relevant to this role. In addition, there may be a requirement for the post-holder to participate in the University Silver (Tactical) on-call rota arrangements for major incidents.
Closing date: Thursday 20th November 2025
The Role and Department
As Head of Health and Safety Service you will provide leadership, management, guidance and support in all areas of health and safety management across the University.
You will oversee the corporate strategy, objectives, arrangements and infrastructure for managing health and safety, as well as monitoring the levels of compliance and implementation, while keeping the University Executive Committee and other senior leaders informed of any issues.
You will have responsibility for developing and maintaining health and safety management systems, reviewing and refreshing existing policies and processes, as well as developing the safety management strategy, promoting best practice and ensuring full compliance while reinforcing a positive safety culture.
This role, while positioned within the Estates and Facilities Directorate (E&FD), sits within the portfolio of the Chief Operating Officer, with responsibilities that span across the entire University. The post-holder is expected to provide expertise, guidance, and advice to ensure a safe environment for all academic, student, professional service, and visitor-related activities.
E&FD provides essential services to Durham University and is responsible for managing, maintaining and developing the infrastructure and building fabric of the various campuses.
Further information about the role and the responsibilities is at the bottom of this job description.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Health and Safety Services - Durham
✨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 Durham University looking for candidates who are engaged and informed.
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 Durham University. 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 Durham University
✨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 Durham University’s stance on compliance. A shared vision can really resonate with interviewers looking for fit as much as skill!
