At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead fire safety strategy and ensure compliance across the UK & Ireland.
- Company: Sodexo, a leader in safety and inclusivity.
- Benefits: Up to £90,000 salary, bonuses, and 20+ employee benefits.
- Other info: Join an inclusive workplace that values diversity and supports career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on fire safety and governance in diverse environments.
- Qualifications: Fire safety qualifications and deep knowledge of UK legislation required.
The predicted salary is between 90000 - 90000 € per year.
We're seeking a highly experienced Head of Fire Safety to lead the fire safety strategy for Sodexo UK & Ireland. In this role, you will drive the UK & Ireland fire safety agenda, strengthen governance and assurance, and oversee competency standards for all fire‐related roles. As Sodexo's fire safety authority, you'll enhance our Fire Safety Operating Model and manage key external relationships, including our Primary Authority partnership. You will ensure full compliance with fire safety legislation and act as the Competent Person under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. The role also supports local operational capability and provides oversight on the effectiveness of fire safety arrangements across our diverse portfolio. This is a high‐impact leadership role for someone who excels at influencing at scale and delivering exceptional safety performance across complex environments.
Main Responsibilities
- Lead and implement the UK & Ireland fire safety strategy and roadmap.
- Own, develop and maintain the fire safety governance model.
- Set clear standards and guidance for the operational business as part of the fire strategy.
- Define and maintain competency standards for all fire safety roles supporting business segments; measuring the effectiveness of resources allocated for fire safety.
- Provide authoritative technical support across high‐risk environments within the UK & Ireland business assisting segment specific resource.
- Provide assurance in relation to fire risk mitigation effectiveness via frameworks, audits, compliance controls, and corrective actions.
- Act as senior escalation point for the Fire Authorising Engineer and Fire Safety Advisors.
- Support mobilisation, bids, PFI handbacks, and operational transitions.
- Maintain strategic relationships with the Primary Authority, regulators, insurers, and industry bodies.
- Lead a zero‐harm fire safety culture, ensuring fire safety best practice networks.
The Ideal Candidate
- A qualification in fire prevention or fire safety, e.g., a combination of both the NEBOSH National Certificate in Fire Safety and Risk Management and NEBOSH General Certificate or an equivalent level 4 RQF accredited fire risk assessment course.
- Membership of the Institution of Fire Engineers or Institute of Fire Safety Managers (At least at the level of Member grade).
- Deep knowledge of UK & Ireland fire legislation and frameworks.
- Proven experience in governance, assurance and risk management.
Package Description
Up to £90,000 depending on experience + bonus. We offer 20+ Sodexo benefits such as Sodexo retirement plan, discounts to over 1,900 brands to shop online, Gym discount to maintain a healthy lifestyle, a confidential 24/7 employee assistance programme providing independent support to overcome whenever life has its obstacles including emotional support, legal and financial advice.
We're a Disability Confident Leader employer. We're committed to changing attitudes towards disability, and making sure disabled people have the chance to fulfil their aspirations. We run a Disability Confident interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria for the job.
We're an inclusive workplace, we believe in equal opportunities, and we celebrate diversity. We're an inclusive workplace, where everyone is welcome, everyone can be natural, and be the best versions of themselves. We recognise that we're on a journey with regards to diversity and inclusion and would therefore welcome applications for candidates from underrepresented backgrounds.
Head of Fire Safety in London employer: Sodexo Group
Sodexo UK & Ireland is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth, offering a competitive salary of up to £90,000 plus bonuses and over 20 unique benefits, including a comprehensive retirement plan and discounts at numerous retailers. Our inclusive work culture fosters diversity and supports individuals from all backgrounds, ensuring everyone can thrive in their roles while contributing to a zero-harm fire safety environment. Join us to lead impactful safety strategies and make a difference across our diverse portfolio.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Fire Safety in London
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the fire safety industry! Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to professionals on 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.
✨Show Off Your Expertise
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your qualifications and experience in fire safety. Share specific examples of how you've led fire safety strategies or improved compliance in previous roles. We want to see your passion and expertise shine through!
✨Prepare for Interviews
Do your homework before interviews! Research Sodexo's fire safety initiatives and think about how your skills align with their goals. We recommend preparing some thoughtful questions to ask during the interview – it shows you're genuinely interested and engaged.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage with us directly. Let’s get you on board!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Fire Safety in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in fire safety and governance. We want to see how your skills align with our needs, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As a Head of Fire Safety, you'll be leading a team and influencing at scale. Use your application to demonstrate your leadership experience and how you've successfully driven safety initiatives in the past. We love seeing examples of impactful leadership!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. This will help us quickly understand your qualifications and fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sodexo Group
✨Know Your Fire Safety Legislation
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of UK and Ireland fire safety legislation. Be prepared to discuss how these laws impact the role and how you would ensure compliance across various environments.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Fire Safety, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and influence. Prepare examples of how you've successfully implemented safety strategies or improved governance in previous roles.
✨Understand the Fire Safety Operating Model
Familiarise yourself with Sodexo's Fire Safety Operating Model. Think about how you can enhance it and be ready to share your ideas during the interview. This shows initiative and a genuine interest in the role.
✨Build Relationships with Key Stakeholders
Since this role involves managing relationships with regulators and industry bodies, think about how you would approach these partnerships. Be ready to discuss your experience in building and maintaining strategic relationships.
