Job Title: Head of Health & Safety
Duration: 6 months fixed term contract

Location: Midlands

Job Summary:
We are currently seeking a seasoned Head of Health & Safety to oversee and ensure the creation of a safe and healthy work environment for all employees at our Food and Water Testing sites. The role will be accountable for the strategic planning, implementation, and management of health, safety, and facility-related policies and initiatives, ensuring operational compliance with local, group, and UK-specific legislation. The successful candidate will also support leading environmental practices and contribute to our company's priorities and overall wellbeing.

Main Duties and Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement comprehensive health & safety strategies that are aligned with company goals and objectives.
- Determine the strategic direction and work priorities for continuous site improvement in collaboration with line management.
- Create, promote, and uphold policies, procedures, and programs that foster a culture of health and safety throughout the organization.
- Ensure legal compliance regarding health and safety regulations at all operational levels.
- Lead, guide, and mentor the health and safety team
- Cultivate a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement within the team and the broader staff population.
- Develop, manage, and regularly review emergency response strategies and procedures.
- Conduct audits and assessments to appraise risk, ensure compliance, and maintain an optimal safe workspace.
- Advise management on the implementation of SHEQ-related regulations, company standards, such as fire prevention, health and safety training, and site inspections.
- Regularly perform prevention inspections, ensuring comprehensive record-keeping.
- Investigate incidents and accidents through to root cause and follow through with implementing corrective actions.
- Cooperate with the Learning and Development Manager to establish safety policies and training programs aimed at reducing workplace accidents and injuries.
- Support the HR Director/HR Team in actions related to health and wellbeing initiatives for employee wellbeing enhancement.
- Develop a monthly SHEQ Communication Strategy for the entire organization.
- Take full responsibility for the company's preparation for annual health and safety audits.
- Be the authoritative advisor on health, safety, quality, and environmental matters, integrating guidance into daily processes and operations.
- Facilitate comprehensive risk assessments, including general, manual handling, COSHH, and fire prevention, providing expert responses when required.
- Oversee the site "permit-to-work" system to ensure consistent adherence to Company standards.
- Manage the budget for health & safety functions.

Qualifications:
- Proven experience in a similar role, with a strong background in health & safety
- Qualified to NEBOSH Diploma level or equivalent in Health and Safety.
- Demonstrated leadership, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and lead a team effectively.
- Experience of managing a team

The company is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from all qualified candidates. If you are ready to take on this challenging and rewarding role, we look forward to your application