Head of SHEQ

Head of SHEQ

Hill McGylnn Recruitment is proud to be working on behalf of a well-established, multi-disciplinary organisation to recruit an experienced Head of SHEQ.

This is a senior leadership position responsible for setting the strategic direction and overseeing the operational delivery of Safety, Health, Environment, and Quality across multiple business divisions. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in driving compliance, continuous improvement, and a strong, proactive SHEQ culture throughout the organisation.

Reporting directly to the Managing Directors and managing a small team of SHEQ Advisors, this role offers the opportunity to influence at a board level while remaining closely connected to operational teams.

Role Purpose

The Head of SHEQ will lead and develop the company-wide SHEQ framework, ensuring the business operates to the highest standards. You will provide expert guidance to senior leaders and site teams alike, embedding SHEQ into everyday decision-making and supporting the organisation's continued growth and performance.

Key Responsibilities: Strategic Leadership

• Develop and deliver the SHEQ strategy in line with wider business objectives.
• Drive continuous improvement of systems, processes, and culture.
• Anticipate future risks, regulatory changes, and industry trends.
• Partner with senior leadership to integrate SHEQ into business planning.

Operational Management

• Oversee day-to-day SHEQ activity across all divisions, ensuring consistency of approach.
• Provide competent SHEQ advice to managers, site teams, and project leads.
• Carry out site inspections, audits, and reviews.
• Ensure incidents and near misses are reported, investigated, and lessons learned are shared.

Leadership of the SHEQ Team

• Line manage and develop SHEQ Advisors.
• Set objectives, monitor performance, and support professional development.
• Promote collaboration and best practices across the group.

Compliance & Governance

• Maintain and enhance the Integrated Management System (ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001).
• Ensure compliance with all relevant SHEQ legislation and requirements, including CDM and environmental standards.
• Lead external audits and certification processes.
• Produce clear SHEQ performance reports for senior leadership.

Cultural Development

• Champion a positive safety culture at every level of the business.
• Deliver engagement initiatives, toolbox talks, workshops, and awareness campaigns.
• Encourage ownership and accountability for SHEQ responsibilities.

Risk Management

• Lead risk assessments and ensure appropriate controls are in place.
• Support the development of safe systems of work, method statements, and environmental plans.
• Challenge unsafe behaviours and practices constructively.

Emergency Preparedness

• Oversee emergency response planning, fire safety, and business continuity arrangements.
• Ensure training and drills are completed as required.

Key Skills & Competencies

• Strong leadership presence with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• In-depth knowledge of health & safety legislation, environmental law, and quality management.
• Comfortable balancing strategic oversight with hands-on operational support.
• Excellent communication, coaching, and relationship-building skills.
• Data-driven approach with strong analytical and reporting capability.
• Able to manage competing priorities across multiple business areas.

Qualifications & Experience

• NEBOSH Diploma (or equivalent) - essential.
• Chartered (CMIOSH) or working towards chartership - desirable.
• Background in construction, utilities, property services, or a similar multi-disciplinary environment.
• Proven experience managing a SHEQ team.
• Demonstrated experience implementing and maintaining ISO management systems.
• Strong track record of improving SHEQ performance within a growing organisation.

What Success Looks Like

• Reduced incident rates and stronger leading indicators.
• High levels of compliance across all business areas.
• An engaged workforce with clear improvements in safety culture.
• Robust SHEQ systems are embedded and consistently applied.
• Clear, reliable reporting that supports informed business decisions.