Head of Health, Safety, Quality and Environment

Reporting to: HSQE Director

Confidentiality: N/A

Ford & Stanley Executive Search (Part of the Ford & Stanley Talent Services Group) are a leading Executive search and talent advisory firm specialising in the following sectors:

• Rail & Transportation
• Civils & Construction
• Manufacturing & Supply Chain
• Technology & Cyber Security
• Logistics & Intermodal Freight
• Defence

We have been exclusively appointed by our client company on a retained search for a Head of HSQE. Below you will find a 'Candidate Opportunity Brief' developed from notes taken during the scoping meeting held between the Research Manager of Ford and Stanley Executive Search, Senior Consultant Ford and Stanley Executive Search, Head of HR and the Interim HSQE Director. This brief is designed to give candidates a deeper insight into the opportunity inherent within the role, the challenges the role presents, and provide access to the detail that sits behind the job specification.

Client Opportunity Statements:

• "We are entering an exciting new chapter and looking for a Head of HSQE who wants to play a defining role in shaping it."
• "This is a rare opportunity to join an organisation whilst its identity is being forged. Our strategy is clear, well-structured, and already delivering results. We are on track to meet the requirements of the new concession and to maintain our Safety Certificate and Safety Authorisation and the incoming Head of HSQE will be essential to the success of this."
• "You will lead the development, maintenance, and continuous improvement of our Safety Management Systems and Environmental Management Systems, ensuring they remain robust, compliant, and forward-looking in a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape. This is your opportunity to help define the future of a world-class transportation service."

Key deliverables within the first 12 months include:

• Well-structured and communicated strategy plan for the business unit.
• On track to deliver the new concession and continue to maintain the Safety Certificate and Safety Authorisation.
• Develop, maintain and continually improve the SMS and EMS in line with legal and regulatory requirements.

Essential Hard Skills (Skills & Experience)

• Candidates are required to have a strong understanding of railway operations.
• They must have the ability to liaise with regulators and senior stakeholders both internally and externally.
• Demonstratable background in managing teams and developing a positive safety culture within an organisation.
• Strong track record of being able to operate both strategically and in a 'hands-on' manner.
• Member of IOSH, NEBOSH Diploma Qualified / holds a degree.
• Effective written and verbal communication, ability to negotiate and present effectively.
• Desirable: Environmental Qualification.

Essential Soft Skills (Attributes & Behaviours)

• Naturally transparent leader who understands the value in respectful, open communication.
• An enabler of positive safety culture, a passionate, practical and enthusiastic leader.
• Level-headed and collaborative in their approach throughout all levels of business.
• Ability to influence at all levels.

Working Arrangements & Location:

Based 3 days per week at HQ in Central London, with 2 days working from home.

Ford & Stanley Executive Search Pre-Submission Process:

• First Engagement: A short engagement and introductory conversation to position the opportunity, gauge candidate early interest level and arrange a time and date for a more detailed discussion.
• Candidate Discovery: An open, conversational and consultative discussion where candidates and executive search consultant explore and discuss the opportunity brief.
• The 'shortlist': Shortlisted candidates, having taken time to reflect on the opportunity and undertake subsequent research on the clients business are reengaged where they are asked to provide additional information.