Head Of Health And Safety

Sector: High Voltage (HV) Works, Utilities, Major Projects & Frameworks

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced and proactive HSE Lead to drive health, safety, and environmental performance across a portfolio of high-voltage (HV) infrastructure projects, major frameworks, and utility-based works throughout the North East of England.

This role is critical in ensuring compliance, promoting a strong safety culture, and supporting operational teams working in complex environments including substations, excavation, and wider utilities projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of HSE policies and procedures.
• Provide expert guidance and support to project teams across HV and utilities works.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant UK legislation, industry standards, and client requirements.
• Conduct site inspections, audits, and risk assessments across active project sites.
• Drive behavioural safety initiatives and promote a positive safety culture at all levels.
• Investigate incidents, near misses, and non-conformances, ensuring effective corrective actions.
• Support project planning with a focus on safe systems of work, particularly around excavation and utility interfaces.
• Liaise with clients, contractors, and regulatory bodies on HSE matters.
• Deliver training, toolbox talks, and awareness sessions to site personnel.
• Monitor and report on HSE performance, KPIs, and trends.

Key Requirements

• Proven experience in an HSE role within utilities, civil engineering, or infrastructure sectors.
• Strong working knowledge of excavation works, underground services, and utility coordination.
• Experience in HV environments; substation experience is desirable but not essential.
• Solid understanding of UK HSE legislation and industry best practice.
• Relevant HSE qualifications (e.g., NEBOSH General/Construction Certificate; Diploma preferred).
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to influence and engage teams across multiple sites and projects.
• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel across the North East.

Desirable Experience

• Experience working on major frameworks or long-term infrastructure programmes.
• Previous involvement in substation projects or high-voltage electrical environments.
• Membership of a relevant professional body (e.g., IOSH).

Benefits

Car/Car Allowance

Pension with a leading provider and up to 8% employer contribution

25 days holiday

Personal Wellbeing and Volunteer Days

Private Medical Insurance

Free 24/7 365 Employee Assistance Program to support mental health and well-being (including counselling sessions and legal advice)

Flexible benefits to suit from Dental Insurance, Gym Memberships, Give As You Earn, Travel Insurance, Tax Free Bikes.

Personal development programme