At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead Health, Safety and Environmental strategy across multiple UK manufacturing sites.
- Company: Join a renowned British manufacturing brand with a strong commitment to safety.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus potential, car allowance, and pension matching.
- Other info: Home-based role with travel; dynamic environment with opportunities for growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by transforming HSE into a strategic business enabler.
- Qualifications: Experience in leading HSE strategy and building high-performing teams.
The predicted salary is between 93000 - 111600 £ per year.
HSE Recruitment are working with a household British manufacturing brand seeking a Head of HSE to set the direction across the UK. You will lead Health, Safety and Environmental across seven UK manufacturing sites, operating confidently at senior leadership level while staying close to site reality. This person will continue the elevation of HSE from a compliance function to a strategic business enabler. You will become a trusted adviser to the Exec team, a steady presence during incidents, and someone sites proactively seek out to strengthen culture, capability and performance.
This is a home-based role but with travel expected 3/4 days a week typically. The sites are in the Midlands, into Yorkshire and the North East. You will have 8 direct reports and report into the Manufacturing Director.
Requirements:
- The ideal candidate has led HSE strategy across multiple locations, built high-performing teams, and knows how to apply consistent standards while recognising local operational differences.
- They must be able to turn HSE data into insight, influence Site Directors and operational leaders, and work effectively across Functions such as Engineering, Supply Chain and HR.
- A background in FMCG manufacturing is preferred, but we may consider FMCG logistics or wider transferable manufacturing.
- We need someone commercially minded, able to balance risk, cost and operational pressures, with a proven track record in driving culture and behaviour change, not just rolling out policies.
- They should know how to prioritise risk across a complex environment and deliver improved safety outcomes without compromising productivity.
- Candidates must bring calm authority during incidents, challenge unsafe behaviours respectfully, and build trust rather than fear.
- You must think systemically while keeping solutions grounded in what works in a real FMCG operation.
- Resilience and emotional intelligence are critical. With multiple sites to support, you must navigate competing priorities, unexpected challenges and regulatory pressure while staying composed and making clear, ethical decisions.
- A visible leadership approach is essential, and someone who spends time on site, leads by example and responds with curiosity and not judgement when things go wrong.
- This role demands a leadership style that blends gravitas with warmth.
Salary is up to £93,000 plus 20% bonus based on business and personal performance, £10,000 car allowance and matched 7% pension.
Head of Environment, Health, and Safety in England employer: HSE Recruitment Network
Join a leading British manufacturing brand that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With a strong focus on fostering a collaborative work culture, this role offers the opportunity to influence HSE strategy across multiple sites while enjoying the flexibility of home-based work. Benefit from competitive compensation, including a generous bonus structure and pension scheme, as well as the chance to make a meaningful impact in a dynamic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Environment, Health, and Safety in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the HSE field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. Attend industry events or webinars to meet new people and get your name out there.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its HSE practices. Be ready to discuss how you can elevate their HSE strategy and culture, showing that you understand their unique challenges and can provide tailored solutions.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership style! During interviews, share examples of how you've built high-performing teams and influenced change in previous roles. Highlight your ability to balance risk and productivity while maintaining a positive safety culture.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We have loads of exciting opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly can give you an edge. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining the team!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Environment, Health, and Safety in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Head of HSE. Highlight your experience in leading HSE strategy across multiple sites and any achievements that showcase your ability to turn data into actionable insights.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention your commercial mindset and how you've successfully balanced risk and operational pressures in the past.
Showcase Your Leadership Style:In both your CV and cover letter, emphasise your visible leadership approach. Share examples of how you've built trust and influenced teams, especially during challenging situations. We want to see your gravitas and warmth!
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at HSE Recruitment Network
✨Know Your HSE Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends and regulations in Health, Safety, and Environment. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully led HSE strategies in previous roles, especially in a manufacturing context. This will show that you’re not just familiar with compliance but can elevate HSE to a strategic level.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership approach, especially how you blend gravitas with warmth. Think about times when you’ve built trust with teams or navigated challenging situations calmly. This role requires someone who can lead by example, so be ready to share your experiences.
✨Demonstrate Emotional Intelligence
Be prepared to discuss how you handle high-pressure situations and unexpected challenges. Share specific instances where your emotional intelligence helped you navigate complex environments or improve safety outcomes without compromising productivity. This will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Understand the Business Context
Familiarise yourself with the company’s operations and how HSE fits into their overall strategy. Be ready to discuss how you can balance risk, cost, and operational pressures while driving culture change. Showing that you understand the business side of HSE will set you apart from other candidates.