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- Tasks: Lead and inspire a team to create a positive safety culture at the Port of Dover.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking organisation committed to health and safety excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy 5 weeks annual leave, private healthcare, and a generous pension scheme.
- Why this job: Shape a culture of safety and make a real impact in a strategic role.
- Qualifications: Degree-level education and NEBOSH Diploma or equivalent required.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with ongoing professional development opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
Join to apply for the Head of Health & Safety role at Port of Dover. Are you passionate about shaping a culture where safety is at the heart of everything? We’re seeking a visionary Head of Health & Safety to lead our Health & Safety strategy, champion our values, and drive continuous improvement across our organisation.
About the Role
As Head of Health & Safety, you’ll set the tone for excellence—embedding a positive safety culture, ensuring compliance, and inspiring engagement at every level. You’ll use data and insight to anticipate risks, drive innovation, and deliver programmes that make a real difference. You’ll be a visible leader, trusted advisor, and steward of best practice, ensuring our people, operations, and reputation are protected.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead, inspire, and develop the Health & Safety team to deliver proactive, professional support across our estate.
- Champion a culture of engagement, ensuring Health & Safety is understood, embraced, and lived by all.
- Advise senior leaders and the Board on legislation, best practice, and strategic responses.
- Ensure our Health & Safety management system is compliant with ISO 45001 and drives continual improvement.
- Use KPIs and performance data to inform decision‑making and shape strategy.
- Represent the organisation externally, sharing insights and building stakeholder confidence.
- Foster learning from incidents, ensuring timely investigations and embedding preventative actions.
- Lead stewardship of the Health & Safety budget, supporting innovation and training.
About You
- Degree‑level education and a professional Health & Safety qualification (NEBOSH Diploma or equivalent).
- Proven experience leading Health & Safety at a senior level in complex environments.
- Extensive experience of shaping and embedding behavioural safety cultures.
- Strong analytical, decision‑making, and stakeholder engagement skills.
- The ability to inspire, develop, and empower teams.
- A full driving licence and flexibility to travel as required.
What We Offer
- The opportunity to shape and influence a positive safety culture at a strategic level.
- A collaborative, supportive environment where your expertise is valued.
- Ongoing professional development and growth opportunities.
Additional Benefits
- 5 weeks annual leave + bank holidays (pro rata).
- Generous contributory pension scheme.
- Discretionary annual bonus scheme.
- Private Health Care.
- Life assurance.
- Employee assistance programme.
- 3rd party discounts.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Reward & Recognition platform.
- Free Parking.
Closing date: 16 January 2026 at 5pm. All offers of employment are subject to us obtaining satisfactory references (covering all education, training, employment and unemployment in the preceding 5 years) and there will be a pre‑employment medical including a Drug and Alcohol test. We need to satisfy your Right to Work in the UK. Please be aware that all employees will be subject to background security checks to obtain a Dock Pass. We value the unique differences that each of our colleagues bring to work every day and are committed to creating an environment where everyone is looking after each other and respected, included and able to perform at their best. We review every application personally – no automated AI filters are used in our recruitment process.
Head of Health & Safety employer: Port of Dover
Contact Detail:
Port of Dover Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Health & Safety
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the health and safety field, attend industry events, and engage on platforms like LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company culture and values. At StudySmarter, we believe that understanding the organisation's mission can help you tailor your responses and show how you can contribute to their safety culture. Be ready to share examples of how you've championed safety in your previous roles!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds. We always appreciate a little extra effort!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the position. We’re excited to see how you can help shape a positive safety culture at the Port of Dover!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Health & Safety
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Safety: When writing your application, let your passion for health and safety shine through. We want to see how you can shape a culture where safety is at the heart of everything we do. Share specific examples of how you've championed safety in your previous roles.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to tailor your application to the Head of Health & Safety role. Highlight your experience with ISO 45001 compliance and how you've driven continuous improvement in past positions. We love seeing candidates who understand our values and can align their experience with our needs.
Be Data-Driven: Since this role involves using data to inform decision-making, include any relevant metrics or KPIs from your previous work. Show us how you've used data to anticipate risks and drive innovation. This will demonstrate your analytical skills and strategic thinking.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Port of Dover
✨Know Your Safety Culture
Before the interview, dive deep into the safety culture at the Port of Dover. Understand their current practices and think about how you can enhance them. Be ready to discuss specific strategies you've implemented in the past that align with their vision.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Head of Health & Safety, your leadership will be crucial. Prepare examples that demonstrate how you've inspired and developed teams in previous roles. Highlight your ability to engage stakeholders and foster a culture of safety across all levels.
✨Data-Driven Decision Making
Familiarise yourself with key performance indicators (KPIs) relevant to health and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you've used data to inform decisions and drive continuous improvement. This shows you're not just passionate but also strategic in your approach.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills. Think about past incidents you've managed and how you turned challenges into learning opportunities. This will demonstrate your proactive mindset and commitment to safety excellence.
