Head of Environment, Health, and Safety

HSE Recruitment are working with a household British manufacturing brand- seeking a Head of HSE to set the direction across the UK.

You will leave 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 strengthening 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.
• 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.