Head of Risk

Head of Risk | Wagamama (12 month FTC, London)

Smart, 12-month fixed term contract for a senior safety and compliance professional to lead operational risk strategy across Wagamama restaurants, delivery kitchens, office and franchise operators.

Purpose

Drive operational strategy for workplace safety and compliance, ensuring all locations meet food safety, health and safety, allergen, fire, trading law and licensing requirements.

Responsibilities

• Deliver safe, clean, legally compliant environments for guests and teams.
• Monitor, manage and communicate changes in safety and compliance legislation.
• Lead risk team on‑call escalation process for serious incidents.
• Develop operational crisis management plans.
• Manage EL and PL insurance claims.
• Report technical expertise to operational leadership and board.
• Maintain high safety and hygiene standards and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with Wagamama, TRG businesses and hospitality industry.
• Partner with franchise operators to protect brand and maintain safety standards.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years safety/risk experience in multi‑site hospitality, food retail or food service.
• Environmental health degree or higher‑level safety professional qualification; chartered status desirable.
• Significant knowledge of safety laws and serious incident management, crisis and business continuity.
• Experience advising and reporting to leadership teams; strategic planning and implementation.
• Ability to influence executives and senior stakeholders.
• Valid current driving licence.

Benefits

• Modern office, fresh fruit and soft drinks.
• £200 monthly food allowance.
• Further discounts across retail, hospitality & leisure.
• Family‑friendly pay: 26 weeks full pay + 13 weeks half pay for expectant or adopting parents.

Wagamama is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to inclusive hiring.